For Thursday, February 16

 
Acts 18 (click to read)

25 He (Apollos) also knew much about the Lord's Way, and he spoke about it with great excitement. What he taught about Jesus was right, but all he knew was John's message about baptism. 26...when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him to their home and helped him understand God's Way even better.

I remember a report on young adults and the church. One key item was "they don't like the church but they like Jesus." This was a generalization, of course, but it made a great point: There are often people around us who know something of Jesus and His Values, but don't know the entire story. Like Apollos, what they know is mostly right, and those of us who know Jesus more thoroughly must share what we know. But I am concerned that we do this properly, as in this story. Priscilla and Aquila did not say "wait, you have it wrong." Instead, it seems they affirmed what Apollos did know that was right and shared more. So when I meet a person who has some knowledge about Jesus, I want to give them props for what they know and how they follow. AND (not BUT) I want to add to their experience and knowledge of Him. Then I will gain a faith partner as they gain faith strength.

Lord Jesus - protect me (and all disciples) from the sin of pride and control. Give us, instead, the gifts of humility, gentleness, affirmation and encouragement, that those around us may be helped by our faith and not hurt by our intolerance.

(You can download the Pathway 2012 Bible reading list here.)