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Paul at Corinth (Acts 18:1–17) — A Sermon by R.C. Sproul
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Paul at Corinth (Acts 18:1–17) — A Sermon by R.C. Sproul

Acts 18: Paul's Missionary Journey to Corinth

Introduction to Paul's Journey

  • Paul departs from Athens and travels to Corinth, marking the beginning of his mission in this significant city.

Meeting Aquila and Priscilla

  • In Corinth, Paul meets Aquila and Priscilla, a Jewish couple who fled Rome due to an edict by Emperor Claudius expelling Jews. They share the trade of tent-making with Paul.

Paul's Ministry in the Synagogue

  • Upon Silas and Timothy's arrival from Macedonia, Paul is compelled by the Spirit to testify that Jesus is the Christ. He faces opposition from some Jews who blaspheme against him.

Transitioning to Gentiles

  • After being opposed, Paul declares he will focus on preaching to the Gentiles, shaking off his garments as a symbolic act of leaving behind those who reject his message.

The Vision from God

  • God reassures Paul through a vision at night, encouraging him not to be afraid and promising protection while he continues teaching in Corinth for a year and six months.

Gallio's Judgment

Accusation Against Paul

  • When Gallio becomes proconsul of Achaia, the Jews accuse Paul of persuading people to worship contrary to their law.

Gallio's Response

  • Gallio dismisses the charges against Paul, stating that if it were a matter of wrongdoing or wicked crimes he would listen but sees it as merely a dispute over religious words.

Implications for Early Christianity

  • Gallio’s ruling allows for ten more years of public ministry for Paul under Roman protection since he views Christianity as part of Judaism which had self-governing rights.

The Church in Corinth

Establishment and Challenges

  • During his time in Corinth, Paul establishes a church that later faces numerous issues including immorality and divisions among its members over leadership and spiritual gifts.

Letters Addressing Issues

  • Paul's letters (1 & 2 Corinthians) address these challenges extensively; they provide insight into both theological teachings and practical church governance amidst conflicts within the congregation.
Video description

Many people today might wish they had been alive during the days of the Apostles, but the early church was not without its problems. This was especially true in Corinth. What was it about this city that made Paul’s ministry so challenging at times? What were the problems he had to deal with there? In this sermon, R.C. Sproul considers these questions as he sketches out Paul’s ministry in Corinth. Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=get-started This sermon was preached by R.C. Sproul at Saint Andrew’s Chapel in Sanford, FL. Hear more from his series in the book of Acts: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL30acyfm60fXnqub4SWgiufkL-mCBXBXG #sermon #sermons #rcsproul #reformedtheology #theology