Boy · Greek · New Testament

Apollos

uh-POL-us · means “Traditionally understood as related to Apollo, meaning "destroyer" in root, though used simply as a common Greek personal name”

Apollos is a Greek name that was common in the ancient world. He was a learned Jewish believer from Alexandria, eloquent and thoroughly trained in the Scriptures, who was further instructed in the way of God by Priscilla and Aquila and became a powerful teacher in the early church (Acts 18).

“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.”

The story behind the name

Apollos arrived in Ephesus already a gifted speaker with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures, teaching accurately about Jesus even though he only knew the baptism of John. Priscilla and Aquila heard him and, rather than embarrassing him publicly, invited him to their home and explained the way of God more adequately (Acts 18:24-26).

Apollos received their correction with humility, and went on to become a great help to believers in Achaia, powerfully refuting arguments in public debate and demonstrating from Scripture that Jesus was the Messiah (Acts 18:27-28).

Later, some in Corinth began dividing into factions, some claiming loyalty to Paul and others to Apollos, but Paul insisted the two of them were simply servants working the same field, one planting and another watering while God gave the growth (1 Corinthians 3:6). A boy named Apollos carries a name for teachable brilliance, used fully in God's service.

Middle names that sing with Apollos

Chosen for rhythm and meanings that speak to each other.

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