"A Study of the book of Acts" by Hiram Kemp - Part 10

August 9, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class This episode is a Bible-class-style teaching through Acts 18–19 that examines recurring challenges the church (and individual Christians) will always face. Using Paul’s ministry in Corinth and episodes with Apollos and the Ephesian disciples, the lesson focuses on two major themes: overcoming fear and correcting mistaken ideas about salvation. The first section deconstructs the “halo effect” and reminds listeners that Paul was a very human leader who experienced fear—at times trembling in Corinth—despite his apostolic record. The teacher walks through Acts 18:1–11 alongside 1 Corinthians 2:3, Ephesians 6, Colossians 4, 2 Timothy, Psalm 56, Joshua 1:9, Romans 8:18 and other passages to show how Jesus’ assurance ("Do not be afraid... I am with you") and the reality of faith-with-fear shaped Paul’s response: keep speaking, rely on the divine presence, remember you are not alone, and choose to not be ruled by fear. The classroom discussion also applies this to congregational fears (budgets, membership, ministry change) and personal fears (evangelism, rejection, death, failure). The second section turns to correcting mistaken ideas about salvation, focusing on Acts 18:24–26 and Acts 19:1–7. The lesson contrasts Apollos’ powerful but incomplete knowledge (he knew only John’s baptism) with Priscilla and Aquila’s gentle correction, and Paul’s encounter with twelve Ephesian disciples who received John’s baptism but had not yet received the Holy Spirit. Key biblical distinctions between John’s baptism and baptism in the name of Jesus are highlighted along with why the early church rebaptized some. The episode offers practical, pastoral guidance for talking with people who hold different or incomplete views: acknowledge what they do right, take conversations aside rather than publicly shame, open Scripture together and show the "way of the Lord" more accurately, ask good questions to learn what they truly believe, listen closely, put the matter between the person and the Bible (not denominational opinion), and leave the results with God. It also identifies unhelpful responses to avoid—demeaning language, name-calling, challenging sincerity, or staying silent—and emphasizes speaking the truth in love. There are no outside guests; the hour is driven by classroom teaching and group discussion. Listeners can expect Scripture-based exposition, practical evangelism tips, pastoral counsel for congregational leadership, and clear, actionable steps for addressing fear and doctrinal confusion in real-life ministry settings.   Duration 41:46