Eloquent (λόγιος)

Eloquent (λόγιος) is an adjective used to describe a person’s speech, writing, gestures, or silence, emphasizing expressive clarity. It refers to someone who is “learned, skilled, and eloquent,” trained in literature—especially in speech and poetry. This term does not merely describe someone who talks a lot, but rather someone cultivated in learning, particularly in literary or scriptural matters.

It is used only once in Scripture, describing Apollos, a Jew born in Alexandria, in Acts 18:24. He was an eloquent man, possessing an inherent ability in the Scriptures due to his extensive training in speech, writing, gestures, and even the use of silence to enhance clarity in expression.

In Ephesus, Apollos met Aquila and Priscilla, who explained the way of the Lord to him more accurately, for at that time he knew only the immersion of John (Acts 18:25–26). His willingness to receive correction, along with his effectiveness in ministry, makes him a model of both intellectual rigor and spiritual humility.

He became influential in Achaia, particularly in Corinth, where his scriptural reasoning had a strong impact. Apollos went on to pastor the assembly in Corinth for a time, until he could no longer tolerate their carnality (cf. Acts 19:1). Paul uses himself and Apollos as examples to warn against factionalism in the Corinthian assembly, highlighting the unity of God’s work (1 Corinthians 4:6). Later, Paul encouraged Apollos to return to Corinth, but at that time he was unwilling (Acts 16:12).