Prisca & Aquila: A Dynamic Duo of Faith

• Acts 18:2-3: “There he met a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had ordered all Jews to leave Rome. Paul went to see them, and because he was a tentmaker as they were, he stayed and worked with them.”  
• Acts 18:18: “Paul stayed on in Corinth for some time. Then he left the brothers and sisters and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at Cenchreae because of a vow he had taken.”  
• Acts 18:26: “He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately.”  
• Romans 16:3-4: “Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in Christ Jesus. They risked their lives for me. Not only I but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them.”  
• 1 Corinthians 16:19: “The churches in the province of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Priscilla greet you warmly in the Lord, and so does the church that meets at their house.”  
• 2 Timothy 4:19: “Greet Priscilla and Aquila and the household of Onesiphorus.”  

Prisca and Aquila, a devoted couple mentioned several times in the New Testament, stand out as examples of faith, hospitality, and dedication to spreading the Gospel. Their story, woven into the fabric of the early Christian church, provides valuable lessons for believers today.

• Tentmakers & Missionaries: Like Paul, Prisca and Aquila were tentmakers by trade. This shared profession allowed them to connect with Paul and form a close bond, working and travelling together. Their willingness to uproot their lives and follow God’s call, moving from Rome to Corinth and later to Ephesus, demonstrates their commitment to serving alongside Paul.
• Hosts & Mentors: Prisca and Aquila opened their home to fellow believers, creating a hub for Christian fellowship and learning. Their hospitality extended beyond providing a roof over one’s head; they nurtured and guided others in their faith, as seen when they instructed Apollos, a gifted preacher, further in the way of God.
• Partners in Ministry: This couple actively participated in the ministry of the early church. Though the Bible doesn’t provide extensive details, their presence and influence are evident. Their courage and willingness to risk their lives for the Gospel, even facing danger together with Paul, serve as a powerful reminder of their unwavering faith.

Takeaways for Today

• Embrace Hospitality: Opening our homes and hearts to others, offering them a place of belonging and encouragement, fosters a strong Christian community.
• Value Mentorship: Invest in the lives of others, providing guidance and support as they grow in their faith.
• Be Courageous: Stand firm in your faith, even when faced with challenges or adversity.
• Prioritise Partnerships: Working together with other believers, sharing in the work of ministry, amplifies our impact.

Prisca and Aquila’s lives may seem distant, but their story resonates across time. Their faith, dedication, and unwavering commitment to serving God offer timeless lessons for believers today. Their legacy reminds us that even ordinary people can make an extraordinary impact when they allow God to use them for His purposes.

Insights on Prisca and Aquila from Commentaries:

Matthew Henry’s Commentary

• Faithful Companions: They were close companions of Paul, even accompanying him on his travels, demonstrating their commitment to the Gospel and the early church.  
• Tentmakers and Ministers: Like Paul, they were tentmakers by trade, showcasing the importance of honest labour even while engaging in ministry.  
• Hospitable and Courageous: They opened their home for gatherings and potentially risked their lives to protect Paul, highlighting their hospitality and bravery.  
• Effective Teachers: They instructed Apollos, a powerful preacher, in the way of God more perfectly, showing their ability to disciple and teach.  

Overall

• Dedicated Servants: They were actively involved in serving the early church and spreading the Gospel.  
• Strong in Faith: They were willing to make sacrifices and face dangers for their beliefs.
• Gifted Teachers: They were able to instruct and guide others in the faith.  
• Hospitable and Generous: They opened their home and their lives to fellow believers.

Their story reminds us of the importance of:

• Community: Supporting and encouraging each other in our faith journeys.
• Hospitality: Opening our homes and hearts to those in need.
• Discipleship: Helping others grow in their understanding of the Gospel.
• Boldness: Living out our faith without fear, even in the face of opposition.