After seeing minimal gospel fruit in Athens, a city known for its academics and architecture, Paul goes to Corinth, known for its affluence and immorality. He is still alone, having left his partners in Berea. He would later describe himself as weak and fearful while ministering in Corinth, but in Acts 18, the Lord provides just what he needs to stay faithful and press on in the mission. Upon his arrival, Paul is hosted by new friends. A Jewish couple, Aquila and Priscilla, had recently moved to Greece as refugees from Rome, most likely for sharing the gospel. It’s no wonder Paul saw them as kindred spirits! Besides, they were tentmakers, like Paul. So he stays in their home, working alongside them on weekdays, and witnessing for Christ in the synagogue every Sabbath. Undoubtedly, the friendship and hospitality helped to lift his spirits (v 1-4). When Silas and Timothy join him in Corinth, bringing a financial gift from the churches of Macedonia (2 Cor 11:8-9), Paul is able to occupy himself fulltime with the ministry of the Word. Again he meets Jewish resistance, so Paul decides to focus on the Gentiles, boldly setting up his new headquarters right next to the Jewish house of worship! And a breakthrough occurs when the man who led the services at the synagogue gives his life to Christ (v 5-8). But there must have been some lingering fatigue and discouragement, for one night the Lord Jesus graciously strengthens Paul by means of a vision. Not only is he is assured that the Lord will be present to protect him, but also that more will be coming to faith through his faithful preaching of the gospel. This conviction that God is sovereign in salvation does not cause Paul to become passive in evangelism, but motivates him to keep sharing (v 9-11; cf 13:18). Sometime during his eighteen months in Corinth, Jewish opposition arises again; and when he is dragged before the Roman governor, Paul must have wondered about that night vision! But he does escape harm in this city, and a favorable legal verdict ensures a measure of freedom for Christians (v 12-17). Leaving Corinth, Paul heads for home, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. At one port, Paul decides to get a haircut, having completed a vow—most likely a Nazirite vow of dedication to the Lord (Num 6:5)—perhaps made in gratitude for God’s protection while in Corinth. Then Paul and his team come to Ephesus, where his witness in the synagogue goes surprisingly well. And the chapter ends with a gifted preacher named Apollos humbly receiving further education, tactfully provided by Priscilla and Aquila (v 18-28). For further meditation: