1Remind them to be in subjection to rulers and to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, 2to speak evil of no one, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing all humility toward all men. 3For we were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. 4But when the kindness of God our Savior and his love toward mankind appeared, 5not by works of righteousness which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy, he saved us through the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, 6whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior; 7that being justified by his grace, we might be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. 8This saying is faithful, and concerning these things I desire that you insist confidently, so that those who have believed God may be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men; 9but shun foolish questionings, genealogies, strife, and disputes about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. 10Avoid a factious man after a first and second warning, 11knowing that such a one is perverted and sinful, being self-condemned.
12When I send Artemas to you, or Tychicus, be diligent to come to me to Nicopolis, for I have determined to winter there. 13Send Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey speedily, that nothing may be lacking for them. 14Let our people also learn to maintain good works to meet necessary needs, that they may not be unfruitful.
15All who are with me greet you. Greet those who love us in faith.
Grace be with you all. Amen.
Apollos was a Jew from Alexandria who was known for being “an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures.” (Acts 18:24). Apollos had been trained in “the things of the Lord” but only knew of the baptism of John. In Ephesus Priscilla and Aquila “took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly” (Acts 18:26). Apollos preached in Corinth after Paul and “watered” the seeds Paul had “planted” (1 Cor 3:6). This caused some division, as some people in Corinth called themselves followers of Apollos, while others claimed to be followers of Paul. 1 Corinthians addressed these church divisions and sought to unify the church under God who gives the “increase” (1 Cor. 3:6). Apollos is last mentioned in Titus 3:13 where Paul asks Titus to help send Apollos and Zenas “on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them.”