Topical Encyclopedia Aquila and Priscilla, a Jewish couple, are prominently featured in the New Testament as close companions and co-laborers with the Apostle Paul. Their friendship with Paul is a testament to the early Christian community's spirit of collaboration and mutual support in the spread of the Gospel.Background and Meeting with Paul Aquila, a native of Pontus, and his wife Priscilla were tentmakers by trade. They first encountered Paul in Corinth after being expelled from Rome by the edict of Emperor Claudius, which targeted Jews (Acts 18:2-3). The shared occupation of tentmaking facilitated their initial connection with Paul, who also practiced the same trade. This common ground laid the foundation for a deep and enduring friendship. Co-Laborers in Ministry Aquila and Priscilla's relationship with Paul extended beyond mere friendship; they became invaluable partners in his ministry. The couple opened their home to Paul, providing him with both a place to stay and a base for his missionary activities. Their home became a center for Christian teaching and fellowship, reflecting their commitment to the early Church. In Ephesus, Aquila and Priscilla played a crucial role in the ministry by instructing Apollos, an eloquent and learned man, in the way of God more accurately (Acts 18:24-26). Their willingness to invest in the spiritual growth of others highlights their dedication to the Gospel and their alignment with Paul's mission. Paul's Acknowledgment and Gratitude Paul's letters reveal his deep appreciation for Aquila and Priscilla. In his epistle to the Romans, he sends greetings to them, acknowledging their significant contribution to his life and ministry: "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 commendation underscores the couple's bravery and the high regard in which they were held by Paul and the broader Christian community. Legacy and Influence The friendship between Aquila, Priscilla, and Paul exemplifies the collaborative spirit of the early Church. Their partnership in ministry, hospitality, and teaching played a vital role in the spread of Christianity. The couple's dedication to the Gospel and their willingness to support Paul in his mission left a lasting impact on the early Christian movement, serving as a model of faithful service and friendship in the body of Christ. Nave's Topical Index Romans 16:3,4Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus: Nave's Topical Index Library Acts xviii. 18 Index. Aaron, his Office no Palliation of his Sin, 61. Acts xvii. 32-34, xviii. 1 The Church History of Eusebius. Index of Subjects. [Endnotes] Resources What is the history and significance of the church in Corinth? | GotQuestions.orgSummary of the Book of Hebrews - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org Why are there so many different Christian interpretations? | GotQuestions.org Aquila: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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