◄ 2 Timothy 4:19 ►
Greet Prisca and Aquila, as well as the household of Onesiphorus.
Study Bible
Greet Prisca and Aquila
Prisca, also known as Priscilla, and Aquila were a married couple who played a significant role in the early Christian church. They were tentmakers by trade, like Paul, and first met him in Corinth (Acts 18:2-3). Their mention here highlights their continued importance and influence in the Christian community. They are known for their deep understanding of the faith and their ability to teach others, as seen when they instructed Apollos in Ephesus (Acts 18:24-26). Their presence in various cities, including Rome and Ephesus, indicates their active involvement in the spread of Christianity. This greeting underscores the personal relationships and networks that were vital to the early church's growth.

as well as the household of Onesiphorus
Onesiphorus is mentioned earlier in 2 Timothy 1:16-18, where Paul commends him for his loyalty and service, even when others deserted Paul. The reference to his household suggests that Onesiphorus may have been deceased or away, as Paul does not greet him directly. This household likely played a significant role in supporting the church, possibly hosting gatherings or providing resources. The mention of a household reflects the early church's structure, where families often served as the nucleus for Christian communities. This greeting emphasizes the importance of hospitality and support within the Christian faith, as well as the enduring impact of faithful service.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Prisca (Priscilla)
Prisca, also known as Priscilla, was a prominent early Christian mentioned several times in the New Testament. She, along with her husband Aquila, was a tentmaker by trade and a close associate of the Apostle Paul. They are noted for their role in teaching Apollos, an eloquent speaker, more accurately about the way of God.

2. Aquila
Aquila was a Jewish Christian from Pontus, who, along with his wife Prisca, worked closely with Paul. They are often mentioned together, indicating their partnership in ministry and hospitality.

3. Onesiphorus
Onesiphorus is mentioned as a faithful Christian who showed kindness to Paul during his imprisonment. His household is greeted here, suggesting that he may have passed away or was absent, but his family continued to be part of the Christian community.

4. Ephesus
While not directly mentioned in this verse, Ephesus is relevant as it is where Timothy was serving as a leader. Prisca and Aquila had previously lived and ministered there, and it is likely that Onesiphorus's household was also part of the Ephesian church.

5. Paul's Imprisonment
This letter is written by Paul during his second imprisonment in Rome, shortly before his martyrdom. It reflects his personal connections and the network of early Christian communities.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Christian Fellowship
Prisca, Aquila, and Onesiphorus exemplify the strength and support found in Christian relationships. Their lives encourage believers to cultivate deep, meaningful connections within the church.

Hospitality as a Ministry
The hospitality shown by Prisca and Aquila, as well as Onesiphorus, underscores the vital role of welcoming and serving others in the faith community. Believers are called to open their homes and hearts to fellow Christians.

Legacy of Faithfulness
Onesiphorus's household is remembered for their faithfulness, suggesting that our actions and character leave a lasting impact. Christians are encouraged to live in a way that honors God and supports His people.

Partnership in Ministry
Prisca and Aquila's partnership in ministry highlights the value of working together in the service of the Gospel. Believers are encouraged to find ways to collaborate and support each other's spiritual gifts.

Encouragement in Trials
Paul's greetings amidst his imprisonment remind us of the importance of encouragement and connection, even in difficult times. Christians are called to support and uplift one another, especially during trials.
Bible Study Questions
1. How do Prisca and Aquila's actions in the New Testament inspire you to engage in ministry within your own community?

2. In what ways can you practice hospitality in your life, following the example of Onesiphorus and his household?

3. Reflect on a time when Christian fellowship has strengthened you. How can you be a source of strength for others in your church?

4. What are some practical ways you can partner with others in your church to further the Gospel?

5. How can Paul's example of maintaining connections during trials encourage you to reach out to others in difficult times?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Acts 18
This chapter provides background on Prisca and Aquila, detailing their initial meeting with Paul in Corinth and their subsequent ministry in Ephesus.

Romans 16:3-4
Paul sends greetings to Prisca and Aquila, acknowledging their risk of life for him and their significant role in the early church.

2 Timothy 1:16-18
Paul speaks of Onesiphorus's kindness and service to him, highlighting the importance of hospitality and support within the Christian community.
Sermons
An Extensive BlessingT. Hall, B. D.2 Timothy 4:19
PersonalR. Finlayson 2 Timothy 4:9-22
Salutations and Personal NoticesT. Croskery 2 Timothy 4:19-22
People
Alexander, Aquila, Claudia, Crescens, Demas, Erastus, Eubulus, Linus, Luke, Mark, Onesiphorus, Paul, Prisca, Priscilla, Pudens, Timothy, Titus, Trophimus, Tychicus
Places
Corinth, Dalmatia, Ephesus, Galatia, Miletus, Thessalonica, Troas
Topics
Aquila, Aq'uila, Aquilas, Greet, Household, Love, Onesiphorus, Onesiph'orus, Prisca, Priscilla, Salute
Dictionary of Bible Themes
2 Timothy 4:19-22

     5328   greeting

Library
Truth Hidden when not Sought After.
"They shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables."--2 Tim. iv. 4. From these words of the blessed Apostle, written shortly before he suffered martyrdom, we learn, that there is such a thing as religious truth, and therefore there is such a thing as religious error. We learn that religious truth is one--and therefore that all views of religion but one are wrong. And we learn, moreover, that so it was to be (for his words are a prophecy) that professed Christians, …
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VIII

A Last Look-Out
We have mainly to do with the second description which he gives of his death. What does he say when the hour that this grim monster must be grappled with is at hand? I do not find him sad. Those who delight in gloomy poetry have often represented death in terrible language. "It is hard," says one-- To feel the hand of death arrest one's steps, Throw a chill blight on all one's budding hopes, And hurl one's soul untimely to the shades." And another exclaims-- "O God, it is a fearful thing To see the …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 17: 1871

Sermon for St. Peter's Day
Of brotherly rebuke and admonition, how far it is advisable and seemly or not, and especially how prelates and governors ought to demean themselves toward their subjects. 2 Tim. iv. 2.--"Reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and doctrine." THIS is the lesson which St. Paul gives to his beloved disciple Timothy, whom he set to rule over men, and it equally behoves all pastors of souls and magistrates, to possess these two things,--long-suffering and doctrine. First, it is their office to …
Susannah Winkworth—The History and Life of the Reverend Doctor John Tauler

Demas
BY REV. PRINCIPAL DAVID ROWLANDS, B.A. Many a man who figures in history, is only known in connection with some stupendous fault--some mistake, some folly, or some sin--that has given him an unenviable immortality. Mention his name, and the huge blot by which his memory is besmirched starts up before the mind in all its hideousness. Take Cain, for example. He occupies the foremost rank as regards fame; his name is one of the first that children learn to lisp; and yet what do we know about him? …
George Milligan—Men of the Bible; Some Lesser-Known

Some Other Writers of the New Testament
[Illustration: (drop cap L) Ancient engraving of man reading scroll] Let us now look at the rest of the books which make up the New Testament. In the days when Paul preached at Athens, the old capital of Greece, much of the ancient splendour and power of the Greek people had passed away, for the Romans had conquered their country, and they were no longer a free nation. Yet, although the Greeks had been forced to yield to Rome, their conquerors knew that the Grecian scholars and artists were far …
Mildred Duff—The Bible in its Making

Epistle Liii. To John, Bishop.
To John, Bishop. Gregory to John, Bishop of Constantinople [1503] . Though consideration of the case moves me, yet charity also impels me to write, since I have written once and again to my most holy brother the lord John, but have received no letter from him. For some one else, a secular person, addressed me under his name; seeing that, if those were really his letters, I have not been vigilant, having believed of him something far different from what I have found. For I had written about the …
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

Paul's Departure and Crown;
OR, AN EXPOSITION UPON 2 TIM. IV. 6-8 ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR How great and glorious is the Christian's ultimate destiny--a kingdom and a crown! Surely it hath not entered into the heart of man to conceive what ear never heard, nor mortal eye ever saw? the mansions of the blest--the realms of glory--'a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.' For whom can so precious an inheritance be intended? How are those treated in this world who are entitled to so glorious, so exalted, so eternal, …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

How the Meek and the Passionate are to be Admonished.
(Admonition 17.) Differently to be admonished are the meek and the passionate. For sometimes the meek, when they are in authority, suffer from the torpor of sloth, which is a kindred disposition, and as it were placed hard by. And for the most part from the laxity of too great gentleness they soften the force of strictness beyond need. But on the other hand the passionate, in that they are swept on into frenzy of mind by the impulse of anger, break up the calm of quietness, and so throw into …
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

A Fulfilled Aspiration
'So that I might finish my course....'--ACTS xx. 24. 'I have finished my course....'--2 TIM. iv. 7. I do not suppose that Paul in prison, and within sight of martyrdom, remembered his words at Ephesus. But the fact that what was aspiration whilst he was in the very thick of his difficulties came to be calm retrospect at the close is to me very beautiful and significant. 'So that I may finish my course,' said he wistfully; whilst before him there lay dangers clearly discerned and others that had all …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts

The Glory of Jesus and Mary.
Before entering upon the contemplation of the excellent glory which surrounds the blessed in heaven, we must endeavor to form a correct idea of God's grace, which enabled them to perform the great and noble actions we are now to consider. They were all, except Jesus and Mary, conceived in sin, and, therefore, subject to the same temptations that daily assail us. They never could have triumphed and reached the supernatural glory which now surrounds them, had they been left to their own natural strength, …
F. J. Boudreaux—The Happiness of Heaven

Exhortation to Workers and Ministers
In conclusion I feel that the Lord would be pleased for me to say a few words for the encouragement of young ministers and workers. In my work in the ministry I have come through many varied experiences that, I trust, will be helpful to you in the trials through which you will have to pass before you get settled in the Lord's work. The first difficulty met by most young ministers and workers is in regard to their call. Unless the call be clear and definite, they are likely to be in some doubt as …
Mary Cole—Trials and Triumphs of Faith

Author's Introduction,
In Which the Sources of This History Are Principally Treated A history of the "Origin of Christianity" ought to embrace all the obscure, and, if one might so speak, subterranean periods which extend from the first beginnings of this religion up to the moment when its existence became a public fact, notorious and evident to the eyes of all. Such a history would consist of four books. The first, which I now present to the public, treats of the particular fact which has served as the starting-point …
Ernest Renan—The Life of Jesus

Meditations of the Blessed State of the Regenerate Man after Death.
This estate has three degrees:--1st, From the day of death to the resurrection; 2d, From the resurrection to the pronouncing of the sentence; 3d, After the sentence, which lasts eternally. As soon as ever the regenerate man hath yielded up his soul to Christ, the holy angels take her into their custody, and immediately carry her into heaven (Luke xvi. 22), and there present her before Christ, where she is crowned with a crown of righteousness and glory; not which she hath deserved by her good works, …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety

Perseverance
'Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.' I Pet 1:1. The fifth and last fruit of sanctification, is perseverance in grace. The heavenly inheritance is kept for the saints, and they are kept to the inheritance. I Pet 1:1. The apostle asserts a saint's stability and permanence in grace. The saint's perseverance is much opposed by Papists and Arminians; but it is not the less true because it is opposed. A Christian's main comfort depends upon this doctrine of perseverance. Take …
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

Conflict and Comfort.
"For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; that their hearts may be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgment of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ."--COL. ii. 1, 2. Although he was in prison the Apostle was constantly at work for his Master, and not least of all at the work of prayer. If ever the words …
W. H. Griffith Thomas—The Prayers of St. Paul

Concerning God's Purpose
1. God's purpose is the cause of salvation. THE third and last thing in the text, which I shall but briefly glance at, is the ground and origin of our effectual calling, in these words, "according to his purpose" (Eph. i. 11). Anselm renders it, According to his good will. Peter Martyr reads it, According to His decree. This purpose, or decree of God, is the fountainhead of our spiritual blessings. It is the impulsive cause of our vocation, justification, glorification. It is the highest link in …
Thomas Watson—A Divine Cordial

Second Missionary Journey
Scripture, Acts 15:36-18:22 +The Inception+--After the Jerusalem Council Paul returned to Antioch where he spent some time, "teaching and preaching the Word of the Lord with many others also." "And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren i+The Companions+ (Acts 15:37-40).--Barnabas proposed to take John Mark, his nephew, with them on this second journey. But Paul strenuously objected, basing his objection on the ground that this young man had deserted them …
Henry T. Sell—Bible Studies in the Life of Paul

How the Gospels came to be Written
[Illustration: (drop cap B) Early Christian Lamp] But how did the story of the Saviour's life on earth come to be written? We have seen that many years passed before any one thought of writing it down at all. The men and women who had really seen Him, who had listened to His voice, looked into His face, and who knew that He had conquered death and sin for evermore, could not sit down to write, for their hearts were all on fire to speak. But as the years passed, the number of those who had seen Christ …
Mildred Duff—The Bible in its Making

Because There is not a Single Scripture in the Church Epistles Which, Rightly Interpreted, Teaches a Partial Rapture.
How could there be? Scripture cannot contradict itself. If the Pauline Epistles explicitly teach and expressly affirm that "all shall be changed in a moment," that "they that are Christ's at His coming shall be raised from the dead, that "we must all appear before the judgment-seat of Christ" and that when our lord returns to the earth to be glorified in His saints He shall be "admired in all them that believe" then these same Church Epistles can not teach that a part of the Church only shall be …
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return

Curiosity a Temptation to Sin.
"Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away."--Proverbs iv. 14, 15. The chief cause of the wickedness which is every where seen in the world, and in which, alas! each of us has more or less his share, is our curiosity to have some fellowship with darkness, some experience of sin, to know what the pleasures of sin are like. I believe it is even thought unmanly by many persons (though they may not like to say …
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VIII

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