Priscilla and Aquila: Co-Laborers with Paul
In the grand tapestry of early Christian ministry, few individuals shine as brightly, or as consistently, as the husband and wife team of Priscilla and Aquila. Often mentioned together, their lives exemplify unwavering devotion, selfless service, and a profound partnership in the spread of the Gospel. They were not apostles, nor did they hold formal ecclesiastical titles, yet their impact on the burgeoning church, and particularly on the ministry of the Apostle Paul, was immeasurable. From their initial encounter with Paul to their faithful service across different cities, Priscilla and Aquila stand as a powerful testament to what it means to be true co-laborers for Christ, demonstrating the vital role of ordinary believers in God's extraordinary plan.
A Providential Meeting in Corinth
The story of Priscilla and Aquila begins in an unexpected place: Rome. As recounted in the book of Acts, their relocation was not by choice but by imperial decree. The Roman Emperor Claudius, in his decree expelling all Jews from Rome, inadvertently set the stage for a divine appointment.
After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth; 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.
It was in Corinth, a bustling, cosmopolitan city, that Paul, having recently left Athens, found them. The immediate bond formed between them was not merely spiritual but also vocational. Paul, ever practical and self-sufficient, shared their trade:
And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers.
This shared profession provided a common ground, fostering a deep relationship that would prove foundational for Paul's ministry in Corinth and beyond. For a year and a half, Paul lived and labored with Priscilla and Aquila, teaching in the synagogue and later establishing a church in the house of Justus (Acts 18:7). During this time, they undoubtedly absorbed Paul's teachings, his passion for the Gospel, and his strategic approach to evangelism and discipleship. Their home became a hub of ministry, a pattern that would continue throughout their lives.
Partners in Ministry and Hospitality
Priscilla and Aquila were not static figures; their ministry was characterized by mobility and adaptability. When Paul decided to leave Corinth for Syria, they accompanied him, at least as far as Ephesus:
And Paul after this tarried there yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila; having shorn his head in Cenchrea: for he had a vow.
Upon reaching Ephesus, a significant center for idol worship and magic, Paul left them there, recognizing their strategic importance for establishing a Christian presence:
And he came to Ephesus, and left them there: but he himself entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews.
Their home in Ephesus, like their home in Corinth, quickly became a center for Christian gathering and worship. Paul later references this in his first epistle to the Corinthians, written from Ephesus:
The churches of Asia salute you. Aquila and Priscilla salute you much in the Lord, with the church that is in their house.
This practice of hosting a "church in their house" was a vital aspect of early Christian community, providing a safe space for believers to gather, learn, and grow, especially before dedicated church buildings existed. Their hospitality was not merely social but deeply ministerial, providing a foundational structure for the nascent church.
Mentors of Apollos: A Model of Discipleship
Perhaps the most celebrated account of Priscilla and Aquila's ministry is their encounter with Apollos. Apollos was a dynamic and eloquent speaker, well-versed in the Old Testament scriptures, but lacking a full understanding of Christian doctrine:
And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus. This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.
Instead of publicly correcting Apollos or undermining his teaching, Priscilla and Aquila demonstrated remarkable humility and wisdom. They took him aside privately:
And when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.
This act of private, gentle instruction is a powerful model of discipleship. It highlights several key principles:
- Discretion and Humility: They did not seek to embarrass Apollos but to build him up.
- Thoroughness: They didn't just correct a small point but "expounded...the way of God more perfectly," suggesting a comprehensive explanation.
- Shared Ministry: Both Priscilla and Aquila were involved, indicating that Priscilla, a woman, was actively engaged in theological instruction and discipleship. This challenges narrow interpretations of women's roles in ministry, showcasing her vital contribution to teaching within the early church context.
The result of their careful instruction was profound. Apollos went on to become a powerful advocate for Christ, significantly strengthening the believers in Achaia and refuting the Jews publicly, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ (Acts 18:27-28). This demonstrates the exponential impact of effective, humble discipleship.
Courage and Commitment: Risking Their Lives
The depth of Priscilla and Aquila's devotion to Paul and the Gospel is further underscored by Paul's own testimony. In his letter to the Romans, written from Corinth, Paul sends greetings to them, who were evidently back in Rome by that time:
Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus: Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom also all the churches of the Gentiles give thanks. Likewise greet the church that is in their house.
The phrase "laid down their own necks" is a vivid idiom, implying they risked their very lives for Paul's sake. While the specific incident is not recorded, it speaks volumes about their courage, loyalty, and willingness to sacrifice for the advancement of the Gospel and the safety of its ministers. This level of commitment moved not only Paul but "all the churches of the Gentiles" to give thanks, indicating their widespread reputation for selfless service.
Enduring Legacy: Co-Laborers with Paul
Priscilla and Aquila's association with Paul spanned many years and multiple cities. Their names appear in various epistles, always with honor and affection. In his final letter, 2 Timothy, Paul sends a poignant greeting:
Salute Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus.
The consistent mention of their names, often with Priscilla listed first (Prisca is a diminutive of Priscilla), suggests her prominent role and perhaps even her leadership within their partnership. Their continuous presence in Paul's life, from Corinth to Ephesus to Rome and back to Ephesus, highlights their enduring commitment as "my helpers in Christ Jesus" (Romans 16:3). They were not just casual acquaintances but integral members of Paul's missionary team, embodying the spirit of co-laborers.
Lessons for Today's Believers
The lives of Priscilla and Aquila offer invaluable lessons for Christians today:
Partnership in Marriage and Ministry: They exemplify a powerful, complementary partnership, demonstrating how a husband and wife can serve God together, using their combined gifts and resources. Hospitality as Ministry: Their consistent practice of hosting "the church in their house" underscores the profound impact of open homes and radical hospitality in building Christian community. Humble Discipleship and Mentoring: Their private, gentle instruction of Apollos is a masterclass in effective, non-confrontational teaching and mentorship, equipping others for greater service. Using Secular Skills for Sacred Purposes: Their tentmaking trade provided not only for their livelihood but also facilitated their itinerant ministry and allowed them to support Paul. Courage and Commitment: Their willingness to risk their lives for Paul reminds us of the sacrificial nature of true Christian service and loyalty. The Value of "Ordinary" Believers: They were not apostles, but their consistent, behind-the-scenes work was indispensable to the early church's growth and stability. Priscilla and Aquila remind us that every believer, regardless of formal title or public prominence, can be a vital co-laborer with Christ and His servants. Their story is a powerful call to active, humble, and courageous participation in the spread of the Gospel.
Conclusion
Priscilla and Aquila stand as luminaries in the New Testament, a testament to the power of a dedicated, Spirit-filled couple serving God. Their lives were marked by adaptability, hospitality, discerning mentorship, and selfless courage. As true "helpers in Christ Jesus," they not only supported the Apostle Paul but also significantly contributed to the establishment and strengthening of early Christian communities. Their legacy continues to inspire believers to be faithful co-laborers, using their homes, skills, and wisdom for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom.