Today’s first reading from the Acts confirms the two deposits of Christian faith – they are the Scriptures and the Tradition.

A preacher named Apollos knew the Scriptures very well. And his knowledge enabled him to speak about Jesus accurately. It is because the Old Testament is in fact a preparation for the coming of the Messiah and Saviour. To know the Scriptures well means to know God’s promise to send the Messiah and Saviour. From the fall of the first parents of mankind, the Scriptures speak of the Saviour of mankind from sin. To know the Scriptures well grows and matures the faith in the Messiah and Saviour, who is Jesus Christ.

In the meantime, the first reading also introduces an interesting episode. The same Apollos, though well-versed in the Scriptures, had to learn more. Priscilla and Aquila, Christian laymen, taught Apollos more about the Gospel of Christ beyond the baptism of John. The Christian couple handed him what they received from the apostles – that is the Tradition. Only with the comprehensive Tradition, Christians can mature in faith and share their faith according to the teaching of Christ.

Reading and reflecting on the Bible is critical in our faith. But learning and studying the Bible with the help of the Tradition is as much vital because without the teaching authority of the Church people may fall into errors.