Acts 18:1-17

Introduction:

1. Leaving Athens, Paul moved on to Corinth where he would spend a year and a half teaching the Corinthians (18:11).

2. Many key events and people in Paul’s Gentile mission converge here.

Discussion:

I. The Depravity of Ancient Corinth

A. Corinth was located on an isthmus joining the Ionian and Aegean Seas.

B. Due to the dangers of sailing around the Peloponnesus, ships were hauled across the isthmus by slave laborers via the Diolkos route.

C. While waiting, sailors from many lands blended their vices; engaging the cult prostitution at the temple of Aphrodite was a chief interest.

D. This rampant fornication inspired the term korinthiazo, to live or act like a Corinthian, as a euphemism for fornication (1 Corinthians 5:1; 6:9-19).

II. Good Soil in the Midst

A. In this depraved city, Paul met Priscilla and Aquila who labored faithfully alongside Paul for years (Romans 16:3-4; 1 Corinthians 16:19; 2 Timothy 4:19).

B. Though many Jews opposed him, Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue was converted, along with many other Corinthians (18:5-8).

C. Jesus assured Paul He had many people in Corinth, that is good soil that was poised to receive the gospel (18:9-10)

III. Playing the Long Game

A. With Christ’s assurance, Paul spent 18 months in Corinth (18:11).

B. He faced opposition (18:4-6, 12-17), but due to his perseverance and the Lord’s blessings, a significant congregation was established at Corinth.

C. He had to prioritize his time and energy, as he could not “…give what is holy to the dogs” nor cast his “…pearls before swine” (Matthew 7:6).

D. Like Paul, we cannot allow the dogs and swine of the world to prevent us from planting the seed of the kingdom in the good soil in the midst.

Conclusion:

1. Paul in Corinth teaches the value of perseverance in our depraved world.

2. As then, so today, many will undoubtedly reject the gospel.

3. Yet, Jesus has many people poised to believe, often where we least expect it.