From Athens, Paul went on to Corinth (see map), a large seaport known for all the vices typical among idle sailors throughout history. Yet God told the apostle that he had “many people” there. Paul met Aquila and Priscilla, fellow tentmakers, who became dear friends and co-workers (in Romans 16:3-4, Paul would write that they had “risked their own necks” for his life). He ended up staying in Corinth for 18 months.

• After Paul preached in Corinth for a while, some synagogue members (by now predictably) “opposed and slandered him.” He “left the synagogue,” but remarkably, “Crispus, the synagogue leader, and his entire household came to believe in the Lord.” Jesus told Paul in a dream, “Don’t be afraid… I’m with you.” How does it change your outlook in difficult, scary situations to have a sense that you’re not all alone, that Jesus is with you? Where do you need God’s comfort and courage right now?
• When Paul met Priscilla and Aquila, they were all far from home. He’d come from Athens, and faced hostility in Corinth. Priscilla and Aquila were recent exiles from Rome at Emperor Claudius’ orders. Most often God works through people. How did God use the close friendship that developed to strengthen all three people to serve Jesus more effectively?