Welcome to Who’s Who in the Bible. Today, we’ll take an overview of the life of Aquila, a dedicated tentmaker, missionary, and close companion of the Apostle Paul.
Aquila, along with his wife Priscilla, played a significant role in the early Christian church. Their partnership with Paul and their contributions to his ministry highlight their dedication to spreading the Gospel and supporting the early church.
Aquila is first introduced in Acts 18:2-3. After being expelled from Rome by Emperor Claudius, Aquila and his wife Priscilla settled in Corinth. They shared Paul’s profession as tentmakers, and Paul stayed with them, working and ministering together (Acts 18:3). This close partnership facilitated the spread of Christianity in Corinth and beyond.
In Acts 18:24-26, Aquila and Priscilla are depicted as key figures in instructing Apollos, an eloquent speaker who had an incomplete understanding of the Gospel. They took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately. This moment highlights their role in teaching and guiding others in the faith.
Aquila’s contributions extend beyond his partnership with Paul. In Romans 16:3, Paul writes, 'Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus.' Their service is further acknowledged in 1 Corinthians 16:19, where Paul says, '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.' This indicates their significant role in hosting early Christian gatherings.
The legacy of Aquila and Priscilla is one of partnership, dedication, and service. Their work in tentmaking supported their ministry, and their willingness to teach, guide, and host early Christian communities underscores their commitment to the growth of the church.
So what’s so special about Aquila? His life exemplifies the importance of using one’s skills and resources to support and advance the work of the Gospel. Aquila’s partnership with Paul, his role in teaching Apollos, and his hospitality to the early church reflect the values of faithfulness and service that are essential in the Christian life.
To learn more about Aquila and his contributions to the early church, we encourage you to explore the New Testament accounts in Acts and Paul’s letters, which highlight the vital roles played by early Christian leaders and their companions.
