How can we support church leaders like Priscilla and Aquila supported Paul? Seeing the Example: Priscilla & Aquila in Action • Romans 16:3-4: “Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their own necks for my life. Not only I but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them.” • Acts 18:2-3: They opened their home and workplace, letting Paul live and labor beside them. • Acts 18:26: They “took [Apollos] in and explained the way of God to him more accurately,” strengthening another teacher for wider ministry. What They Did—and Why It Matters • They welcomed a leader into everyday life—housing, meals, conversation, tent-making. • They invested their skills and income so Paul could keep preaching. • They risked personal safety for the gospel’s advance. • They discipled another preacher, multiplying effective ministry. Paul calls them “fellow workers,” showing that support roles carry equal honor before God (1 Corinthians 3:8-9). Ways We Can Do the Same Today • Pray deliberately – Colossians 4:3: “Pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word.” – Keep a leader’s calendar and needs list in daily prayer. • Share resources and finances – Galatians 6:6: “The one who receives instruction in the word must share in all good things with his instructor.” – Regular, generous giving frees leaders from financial distraction (Philippians 4:15-16). • Offer hospitality – 3 John 6-8: “Send them on their way in a manner worthy of God… we ought to support such men.” – Meals, guest rooms, loaned vehicles, office space—practical care that says, “You’re family.” • Work shoulder-to-shoulder – Aquila made tents; you might run tech, teach kids, mow lawns, or handle paperwork. – Hebrews 13:17 urges joyful cooperation so leaders can serve “with joy and not with grief.” • Stand with them in hardship – Priscilla and Aquila “risked their own necks.” Defend reputations, step into crises, show up at hospitals or courtrooms. – 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13: “Acknowledge those who labor among you… esteem them very highly in love.” • Encourage and affirm – Simple words—texts, notes, public thanks—refresh weary hearts (Proverbs 25:11). – Celebrate victories; refuse gossip and complaint. • Multiply ministry – Invite leaders to mentor you; then mentor others, as they did with Apollos. – Ephesians 4:12: leaders equip saints “for the work of ministry”—be the equipped and the equipper. Living this way, we become modern Priscillas and Aquilas—fellow workers whose quiet faithfulness lets the gospel run free and the whole church give thanks. |
    |