2024_12_13 Insight Post- David Schleyer
This week’s reading- Acts 18:1-28, 1 Corinthians 16:19, 2 Timothy 4:19, Romans 16:3-5
One of my favorite parts of Aquila and Priscilla’s story is when they meet this guy named Apollos in Acts 18:24-28. Apollos was a smart, passionate guy who taught in the synagogue with a lot of confidence- but he didn’t know the full story of the Gospel. Aquila and Priscilla could’ve just let him keep going or worse, called him out publicly. But instead, they did something so respectful: they pulled him aside and explained things to him more accurately. They didn’t embarrass him; they saw his potential and stepped in to help him grow, all without making a big show of it.
Supporting others doesn’t have to be loud or flashy. Sometimes, it’s about being willing to take someone aside, to have a real, honest conversation that lifts them up without putting ourselves in the spotlight. Aquila and Priscilla didn’t make it about them; they saw someone with a lot of potential and gently gave him what he needed to go further.
Thinking about this, it hits home for me personally. I think about the people I’ve had in my life who took the time to quietly pull me aside and give me a little guidance when I needed it. It wasn’t always easy to hear, but those are the people I respect most now. And looking at their example makes me ask myself, “Am I willing to step up like that?” It’s easy to sit back and watch when someone’s missing a key piece of the puzzle or going in the wrong direction, especially if it feels uncomfortable to say something. But Aquila and Priscilla’s approach- doing it with respect and humility- shows me that sometimes, a little nudge in the right direction can make a huge difference in someone’s life.
I want to be that kind of friend and mentor, the one who’s willing to help others without needing credit or attention. It’s a reminder that real courage in relationships often comes down to standing up for someone’s potential in a way that’s caring, not condescending.
David Schleyer
Elementary Small Group Leader