Topical Encyclopedia Aquila and Priscilla, a prominent Christian couple in the early church, are frequently mentioned in the New Testament as faithful companions and co-laborers with the Apostle Paul. Their account is a testament to the vital role of laypeople in the spread of the Gospel and the establishment of early Christian communities.Background and Early Life Aquila, a Jew from Pontus, and his wife Priscilla (also known as Prisca) are first introduced in the Book of Acts. They had recently come from Italy to Corinth because Emperor Claudius had ordered all Jews to leave Rome (Acts 18:2). This expulsion, dated around A.D. 49, forced many Jewish families to relocate, and it was in Corinth that Aquila and Priscilla met Paul. Meeting Paul in Corinth In Corinth, Aquila and Priscilla worked as tentmakers, a trade they shared with Paul. Acts 18:3 states, "and because he was of the same trade, he stayed with them and worked; for they were tentmakers by trade." This shared occupation likely facilitated a close relationship between the couple and Paul, allowing them to support his ministry both materially and spiritually. Ministry and Influence Aquila and Priscilla played a significant role in the early church, not only in Corinth but also in other key locations. They are noted for their hospitality and teaching. In Acts 18:24-26, they encounter Apollos, an eloquent speaker and knowledgeable in the Scriptures, but who only knew the baptism of John. "When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him in and explained to him the way of God more accurately" (Acts 18:26). This incident highlights their deep understanding of Christian doctrine and their ability to instruct others in the faith. Contributions to the Church The couple's contributions to the early church extended beyond teaching. They hosted a church in their home, as indicated in 1 Corinthians 16:19: "The churches in the province of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Priscilla greet you warmly in the Lord, along with the church that meets at their house." Their home became a center for worship and fellowship, demonstrating their commitment to the growth and nurturing of the Christian community. Later Life and Legacy Aquila and Priscilla eventually returned to Rome, as evidenced by Paul's greetings to them in his letter to the Romans: "Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who have risked their lives for me. Not only I but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them" (Romans 16:3-4). This passage underscores their dedication and the high regard in which they were held by Paul and the broader Christian community. Their legacy is one of faithful service, hospitality, and teaching. Aquila and Priscilla exemplify the impact that committed laypeople can have in the church, serving as models of Christian partnership and ministry. Their account is a reminder of the importance of collaboration and support in the mission of spreading the Gospel. Nave's Topical Index Acts 18:1-3,18,19,26After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth; Nave's Topical Index Library Priscilla and Aquila Paul in Corinth. The Old Faiths and the New Laboring under Difficulties Two Fruitful Years Acts XVIII The Conversion of Apollos, his Character, and the Ministry of Paul ... The First Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Corinthians 'Constrained by the Word' The Women of the Apostolic Age Resources Who was Apollos? | GotQuestions.orgIs there supposed to be only one church? | GotQuestions.org Who was Sosthenes in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Aquila: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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