Who Was Aquila in the Bible?
Aquila, along with his wife Priscilla, is a significant figure in the New Testament, known for his dedication to the early Christian church. First introduced in Acts 18:2, Aquila was a Jewish Christian who lived during the time of the New Testament. His life and ministry, alongside Priscilla, provide valuable lessons for modern Christians about faithfulness, hospitality, and partnership in the service of God.
Biblical References and Description
Acts 18:2
Aquila is first mentioned in Acts 18:2 (NIV): “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.” This passage introduces Aquila and Priscilla as Jewish Christians who had been expelled from Rome and had settled in Corinth. Paul, the apostle, formed a close bond with them, working and ministering together.
Acts 18:18-19, 26
Aquila and Priscilla are also mentioned in Acts 18:18-19, where they accompany Paul to Ephesus and remain there to continue the work of the ministry. Later, in Acts 18:26, they encounter Apollos, an eloquent speaker who knew only the baptism of John. They take him aside and explain to him the way of God more accurately, demonstrating their deep understanding of the Christian faith and their commitment to teaching others.
Romans 16:3-4
Paul refers to Aquila and Priscilla in his letter to the Romans, saying, “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” (Romans 16:3-4, NIV). This highlights their significant contribution to the early church and their willingness to sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel.
1 Corinthians 16:19 and 2 Timothy 4:19
In 1 Corinthians 16:19, Paul sends greetings from Aquila and Priscilla, indicating their ongoing involvement in the church. In 2 Timothy 4:19, Paul again sends greetings to them, showing their continued presence and impact in the Christian community.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Importance of Hospitality
Aquila and Priscilla are renowned for their hospitality, often opening their home to fellow believers and for church gatherings. Their example teaches modern Christians the importance of being hospitable and welcoming, creating spaces for fellowship, worship, and the teaching of God’s Word. Hospitality fosters community and strengthens the body of Christ.
Partnership in Ministry
The partnership between Aquila and Priscilla exemplifies unity and teamwork in ministry. They worked together seamlessly, supporting each other and complementing each other’s strengths. This serves as a model for Christian marriages and partnerships, emphasizing mutual respect, cooperation, and a shared commitment to serving God.
Faithfulness and Sacrifice
Aquila and Priscilla demonstrated remarkable faithfulness and a willingness to sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel. Their readiness to risk their lives for Paul and their dedication to teaching others about Christ illustrate the depth of their commitment. Modern Christians are encouraged to be steadfast in their faith and to make sacrifices for the advancement of God’s kingdom.
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Sovereignty and Provision
The story of Aquila and Priscilla showcases God’s sovereignty and provision. Despite being expelled from Rome, God used their situation to bring them into contact with Paul, leading to a fruitful partnership in ministry. This reassures believers that God can use challenging circumstances for His purposes and that He provides for His people in every situation.
Encouragement and Support
Aquila and Priscilla’s relationship with Paul highlights the importance of encouragement and support within the Christian community. They provided Paul with companionship, assistance in ministry, and a safe place to stay. This reminds modern Christians of the importance of supporting one another, offering encouragement, and standing together in faith.
Connection to Jesus Christ
Spreading the Gospel
Aquila and Priscilla were instrumental in spreading the Gospel, teaching others about Jesus Christ and helping to establish churches. Their dedication to evangelism and discipleship aligns with the Great Commission given by Jesus in Matthew 28:19-20. Their example encourages believers to actively participate in sharing the good news of Christ.
Discipleship and Teaching
Their role in teaching Apollos underscores the importance of discipleship and accurate teaching of Scripture. They ensured that Apollos had a complete understanding of the Gospel, which enabled him to be more effective in his ministry. This highlights the ongoing need for sound biblical teaching and mentoring within the church.
Conclusion
Aquila, alongside his wife Priscilla, is a remarkable example of faithfulness, hospitality, and partnership in the New Testament. Their contributions to the early church, their willingness to sacrifice, and their dedication to teaching and spreading the Gospel provide valuable lessons for modern Christians. Aquila and Priscilla’s story underscores the importance of unity, mutual support, and a shared commitment to serving God. Their lives reflect God’s sovereignty and provision, and their ministry highlights the critical role of evangelism and discipleship in the Christian faith. By following their example, believers can strengthen their own faith and contribute to the growth and unity of the body of Christ.