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APOLLOS

(Gk. Apollṓs)

An Alexandrian Jew, best known for his connection to the situation addressed by Paul in 1 Corinthians. Some Corinthians esteem him as their teacher (1 Cor. 1:12; 3:4), and Paul describes him as a coworker in the “field” of God (3:5-9) and fellow servant of Christ (3:22; 4:6). However, he is not present in Corinth when Paul writes, and he balks at Paul’s suggestion to return there (16:12).

Acts 18:24-28 contains the only biographical information about Apollos. Having a thorough knowledge of Scripture and great oratorical fervor, he learned the “way of the Lord,” taught accurately about Jesus, and received the baptism of John. He spoke boldly in the synagogue in Ephesus and was recognized by Priscilla and Aquila, who invited him to their home and instructed him more adequately in the gospel. Apollos then went to Achaia with encouragement and letters of recommendation from some Ephesian believers. In Corinth he greatly helped believers and vigorously refuted Jews in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ.

This sketch has fueled speculation concerning the problems addressed by Paul in 1 Corinthians. The designation of Apollos as anḗr lógios (“an eloquent man,” Acts 18:24) suggests that the root problem is an overvaluation of Greco-Roman rhetoric, though his Alexandrian heritage is advanced to suggest that he was a Philonic philosopher practiced in techniques of Alexandrian exegesis. This has led to suggestions that gnostic, Hellenistic-Jewish wisdom, or excessive pneumatic tendencies lay behind the divisions in Corinth. Paul does not blame Apollos for the difficulties in Corinth and depicts him as a valued partner in his ministry. The fault lies with those Corinthians who are divisive.

Bibliography. A. D. Litfin, St. Paul’s Theology of Proclamation. SNTSMS 79 (Cambridge, 1994).

Jeffrey S. Lamp

Prayer Tents Bible References - Prayer Tents

APOLLOS

Eerdmans Dictionary of the Bible (2000)