Romans 16:3

KJV

Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus:

KJV (with Strong's)

Greet {G782} Priscilla {G4252} and {G2532} Aquila {G207} my {G3450} helpers {G4904} in {G1722} Christ {G5547} Jesus {G2424}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Give my greetings to Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers for the Messiah Yeshua.

Berean Standard Bible

Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus,

American Standard Version

Salute Prisca and Aquila my fellow-workers in Christ Jesus,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Romans 16:3, the Apostle Paul initiates his extensive list of personal greetings to the believers in Rome by specifically acknowledging Priscilla and Aquila, a prominent and highly esteemed couple. He identifies them as his "helpers in Christ Jesus," immediately underscoring their profound partnership in ministry and their indispensable role in the advancement of the Gospel, setting a tone of deep appreciation for co-laborers in the faith.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Romans 16 serves as the concluding chapter of Paul's magnum opus, following a comprehensive theological treatise on justification by faith, the nature of Israel's salvation, and practical exhortations for Christian living. After establishing foundational doctrines and ethical principles in chapters 1-15, Paul transitions to a series of personal greetings and commendations. This shift from theological exposition to personal connection highlights the communal and relational nature of the early church. By naming specific individuals like Priscilla and Aquila at the very beginning of this list, Paul emphasizes the vital role of individual believers and their collaborative efforts in the church's mission, reinforcing that the grand theological truths he has expounded are lived out in the daily, sacrificial service of ordinary people.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Priscilla and Aquila were a Jewish Christian couple, originally from Rome, who had been expelled along with other Jews by Emperor Claudius's edict around 49 AD (as referenced in [Acts 18:2](/acts/18-2 "Acts 18:2 - Paul Meets Priscilla and Aquila")). They met Paul in Corinth, where they shared the same trade of tentmaking, forging a deep bond of fellowship and ministry. Their mobility (from Rome to Corinth, then to Ephesus with Paul, and eventually back to Rome) was characteristic of many early Christians, who often traveled for trade or due to persecution, spreading the Gospel as they went. The mention of a "church in their house" (implied by their prominent role and later explicit in [1 Corinthians 16:19](/1_corinthians/16-19 "1 Corinthians 16:19 - Greetings from the House Church") and [Romans 16:5](/romans/16-5 "Romans 16:5 - The Church in Their House")) reflects the common practice of early Christian communities gathering in private homes before dedicated church buildings existed, making hospitality a crucial aspect of ministry.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, and indeed the entire chapter, contributes to several key themes within Romans and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it highlights the **importance of Christian community and partnership in ministry**. Paul's extensive list of greetings underscores the interconnectedness of believers across geographical distances and the necessity of mutual support and co-laboring for the Gospel's advance. Secondly, it subtly emphasizes the **role of women in early Christian leadership and ministry**, as Priscilla is often mentioned before her husband, Aquila, indicating her significant standing and perhaps even her greater theological insight, as seen in their joint instruction of Apollos in [Acts 18:26](/acts/18-26 "Acts 18:26 - Priscilla and Aquila Instruct Apollos"). Thirdly, the verse points to the theme of **dedicated service and sacrifice**, as the couple's willingness to travel, host churches, and even risk their lives (as explicitly stated in [Romans 16:4](/romans/16-4 "Romans 16:4 - Priscilla and Aquila Risk Their Lives")) exemplifies the cost of discipleship and commitment to Christ.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Greet (Greek, _aspázomai'_):** This verb means "to enfold in the arms," and by implication, "to salute" or "to welcome." It conveys a sense of warm affection, respect, and personal connection. Paul's use of this word indicates a genuine, heartfelt desire for the Roman believers to extend a specific welcome and acknowledgment to Priscilla and Aquila, reflecting the deep bond of fellowship that characterized the early Christian community.
* **helpers (Greek, _synergós'_):** Derived from a compound meaning "with" (σύν) and "work" (ἔργον), this term literally means "co-laborer" or "fellow worker." It signifies active participation and partnership in a shared task. Paul's designation of Priscilla and Aquila as "helpers" is not merely a polite commendation but a theological statement about their indispensable role in his missionary endeavors. They were not passive supporters but active participants, working alongside him in spreading the Gospel and building up the church.
* **in (Greek, _en'_):** This primary preposition denotes "fixed position" (in place, time, or state) and "instrumentality." In the phrase "in Christ Jesus," it signifies the sphere or realm of their ministry and identity. Their work was not merely human effort but was rooted in, empowered by, and directed towards Christ Jesus. It speaks to the spiritual reality and divine enablement of their partnership, emphasizing that their effectiveness stemmed from their union with Christ.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Greet Priscilla and Aquila":** Paul begins with a direct imperative, instructing the Roman church to extend a specific greeting to this couple. The fact that they are named first among a long list of individuals underscores their prominence and Paul's deep affection and respect for them. The order, with Priscilla often mentioned before Aquila, is notable in a patriarchal society and may suggest Priscilla's particular leadership or theological acumen within their shared ministry.
* **"my helpers":** This phrase reveals the nature of their relationship with Paul. They were not merely acquaintances but active partners in his missionary work. The term "helpers" (synergoi) implies a shared burden, a collaborative effort, and a mutual commitment to the same divine mission. It highlights the communal aspect of early Christian ministry, where individuals, regardless of formal titles, contributed significantly to the Gospel's advance.
* **"in Christ Jesus":** This crucial phrase defines the sphere and source of their partnership. Their collaboration was not simply a human alliance but was rooted in their shared identity and union with Christ. It signifies that their work was empowered by Christ, directed by Christ, and ultimately for the glory of Christ. Their effectiveness as "helpers" flowed from their spiritual position "in Christ," making their ministry fundamentally a spiritual endeavor.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several subtle but significant **Literary Devices**. The most prominent is **Appellation**, as Paul directly names and identifies Priscilla and Aquila, immediately establishing their importance and personal connection. The use of the term "helpers" functions as a form of **Epithet**, a descriptive phrase that characterizes the couple's essential role and relationship with Paul, immediately conveying their active participation in ministry. Furthermore, the phrase "in Christ Jesus" serves as a powerful **Prepositional Phrase** that defines the spiritual context and authority of their work, grounding their human efforts in a divine reality. This concise phrasing effectively communicates Paul's deep respect, the nature of their partnership, and the spiritual foundation of their shared mission.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 16:3 powerfully illustrates the New Testament emphasis on partnership in ministry, demonstrating that the advancement of God's kingdom is a collaborative effort, not solely dependent on a few prominent figures. Priscilla and Aquila embody the truth that all believers, regardless of their background or formal roles, are called to be active participants in the mission of Christ. Their example highlights the value of faithful, often behind-the-scenes, service and the crucial role of hospitality and community-building in the early church. Their partnership with Paul, and with each other, serves as a model for how believers are to co-labor, supporting and empowering one another for the sake of the Gospel.

* [Philippians 4:3](/philippians/4-3 "Philippians 4:3 - Paul's Fellow Workers")
* [1 Corinthians 3:9](/1_corinthians/3-9 "1 Corinthians 3:9 - God's Fellow Workers")
* [2 Corinthians 6:1](/2_corinthians/6-1 "2 Corinthians 6:1 - Working Together with God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's commendation of Priscilla and Aquila in Romans 16:3 serves as a profound reminder that Christian ministry is fundamentally a collaborative endeavor, thriving on the faithful contributions of every member of the body of Christ. It challenges us to look beyond hierarchical structures and recognize the invaluable work of those who serve diligently, often without public recognition, yet are indispensable "helpers in Christ Jesus." This verse encourages us to cultivate a spirit of appreciation and affirmation for our fellow believers, acknowledging their unique gifts and the ways they contribute to the Kingdom. It also prompts us to consider our own roles: Are we actively seeking to be "helpers" to others in ministry, using our homes, resources, and spiritual gifts to foster community and advance the Gospel? The example of Priscilla and Aquila calls us to a life of humble, dedicated, and sacrificial partnership, recognizing that our ultimate effectiveness flows from our shared identity and mission "in Christ Jesus."

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Who are the "Priscillas and Aquilas" in your life or church community—those who faithfully serve behind the scenes and enable ministry to flourish? How can you intentionally acknowledge and affirm their contributions?**
* **In what ways are you currently acting as a "helper in Christ Jesus" to others, whether in formal ministry or in your daily life?**
* **How does the concept of being "in Christ Jesus" empower and define your own efforts in serving God and others?**

### FAQ

**Why are Priscilla and Aquila mentioned first in Paul's greetings?**

Answer: Priscilla and Aquila are mentioned first due to their significant standing and close relationship with Paul, indicating their prominence and the high regard in which Paul held them. They were not only personal friends but also indispensable "helpers" or co-laborers in his missionary work. Their home often served as a meeting place for the church (as seen in [Romans 16:5](/romans/16-5 "Romans 16:5 - The Church in Their House") and [1 Corinthians 16:19](/1_corinthians/16-19 "1 Corinthians 16:19 - Greetings from the House Church")), and they had even risked their lives for Paul (as stated in [Romans 16:4](/romans/16-4 "Romans 16:4 - Priscilla and Aquila Risk Their Lives")). Their consistent dedication and active partnership made them exemplary figures in the early Christian community, warranting Paul's immediate and heartfelt commendation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 16:3, in its commendation of Priscilla and Aquila as "helpers in Christ Jesus," subtly points to the ultimate Helper and the very source of all Christian ministry: Jesus Christ Himself. Just as Priscilla and Aquila were co-laborers with Paul, believers are called to be co-laborers with Christ, participating in His ongoing redemptive work in the world. The phrase "in Christ Jesus" is profoundly significant, echoing the New Testament's consistent emphasis on the believer's union with Christ. Our ability to serve, to love, and to be "helpers" for the Gospel is not from our own strength but flows directly from our spiritual position "in Him," as Paul frequently articulates (e.g., [Ephesians 2:10](/ephesians/2-10 "Ephesians 2:10 - Created in Christ Jesus for Good Works"), [Philippians 4:13](/philippians/4-13 "Philippians 4:13 - I Can Do All Things Through Christ")). Christ is the Head of the Church, the one who builds His church ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - Christ Builds His Church")), and He empowers His followers through the Holy Spirit to be His witnesses and fellow workers ([Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Power of the Holy Spirit")). Thus, Priscilla and Aquila's faithful service is a beautiful illustration of lives yielded to and empowered by the Risen Christ, fulfilling His Great Commission and demonstrating the communal nature of His Kingdom.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 18:26

And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto [them], and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.

2 Timothy 4:19

Salute Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus.

1 Corinthians 16:19

¶ The churches of Asia salute you. Aquila and Priscilla salute you much in the Lord, with the church that is in their house.

1 Corinthians 16:16

That ye submit yourselves unto such, and to every one that helpeth with [us], and laboureth.

Romans 16:9

Salute Urbane, our helper in Christ, and Stachys my beloved.

Acts 18:2

And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them.

Acts 18:17

Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the synagogue, and beat [him] before the judgment seat. And Gallio cared for none of those things.