The Beginning: Paul arrives in Corinth after leaving Athens and meets Aquila and Priscilla, Jewish believers recently displaced from Rome. He stays with them and supports himself by working at their trade while also reasoning in the synagogue each Sabbath. When Silas and Timothy arrive, Paul intensifies his public witness that Jesus is the Messiah.
The Middle: As opposition rises in the synagogue, Paul turns his primary focus to the Gentiles, continuing to teach next door at the house of Titius Justus. Many Corinthians believe and are baptized, including Crispus, the synagogue ruler. The Lord encourages Paul in a vision not to fear, promising His presence and that “many” in the city will belong to Him, and Paul remains teaching there for a considerable time. Jewish opponents then bring Paul before the Roman proconsul Gallio, accusing him of promoting unlawful worship.
The End: Gallio refuses to judge the case, viewing it as an internal dispute about Jewish words and law, and he dismisses the charges. Afterward, Paul continues his ministry and later departs Corinth, having established a growing church amid a challenging environment.
This account shows the gospel advancing through both Jewish and Gentile communities according to God’s purpose, even when met with resistance. God’s covenant faithfulness is displayed as He sustains His messenger, directs the mission outward to the nations, and confirms that the spread of the word is ultimately God’s work. The Lord’s promise of His presence emphasizes that the church grows not merely by human strength, but by divine calling and protection as Christ is proclaimed.
Corinth was a major Roman city and commercial hub in Achaia, known for its strategic location and diverse population—conditions that helped messages and people spread quickly. Archaeology has identified an inscription mentioning Gallio at Delphi, which corroborates his historical existence and the Roman administrative setting reflected in Acts.
“Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent, for I am with you.” — Acts 18:9–10
Answer the questions below. When you choose an option, you will see the result and an explanation.
1. What work did Paul do while staying with Aquila and Priscilla in Corinth?
2. How did Gallio respond when Jewish opponents brought Paul before him?