Built on Christ, Empowered by the Spirit

Dearly Beloved, 

Day 322: Chronological Bible in One Year Devotional - 

Reading: Acts 18:24–28; Acts 19:1–20; 1 Corinthians 1, 2, & 3.

Following Day 321’s call to remain steadfast in truth, today’s reading reveals how God fortifies His church—not by human brilliance or charisma, but by the power of His Spirit and the unshakable foundation of Christ.

In Acts 18:24–28, we meet Apollos—eloquent, passionate, and mighty in Scripture, yet lacking full understanding. Priscilla and Aquila humbly take him aside and explain the way of God more accurately. This picture of teachability and discipleship is essential: true power is not in great speaking, but in great alignment with truth.

In Acts 19:1–20, Paul arrives in Ephesus and finds disciples who believed but had not received the Holy Spirit. They knew about repentance, but not empowerment. Paul lays hands on them, and the Spirit comes with power, gifting, and boldness. Soon, God works unusual miracles, darkness is confronted, and the name of Jesus is magnified. Where the Spirit moves, idols fall and whole cities are shaken.

Paul later writes to the Corinthian church in 1 Corinthians 1–3, addressing believers divided by personalities—some claiming Paul, others Apollos, others Peter. But Paul tears down that mindset completely:

• Christ is not divided.
• The cross is the power of God.
• The Spirit—not human wisdom—reveals truth.
• The only true foundation is Jesus

Spiritual maturity isn’t measured by knowledge, giftedness, or eloquence—but by humility, unity, and Christ-centered living. Paul warns them not to build with perishable materials—pride, competition, human wisdom—but with eternal ones—faith, obedience, love, and purity. Every work will be tested by fire.

God chooses the weak to shame the strong. He reveals mysteries not to the wise of this world but to those who walk in His Spirit. The message of the cross may look foolish to unbelievers—but to those who are being saved, it is the power and wisdom of God.

Personal Reflection: What are you building your life and ministry on—your gifts, education, or abilities? Or on the foundation of Christ alone? Do you live by human wisdom or by the Spirit’s power? Ask the Lord to destroy every pride in you and help you to build with what will last eternally.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, be the only foundation of my life. Deliver me from pride, division, and self-reliance. Fill me with Your Spirit and teach me to build with eternal materials. May my words, work, and worship glorify You alone. Use me to reveal Your power in my generation. Amen.