Priscilla and Aquila
Israelite / Jew Jewish; Aquila was born in Pontus (Acts 18:2); lived in Rome, Corinth and Ephesus · Early Church · New Testament
- Also called
- Priscilla, Prisca, Aquila
- Role
- Tentmaking couple; co-workers of Paul
- When
- c. AD 50-60s
What they did
Driven from Rome by Claudius, they worked with Paul as tentmakers in Corinth, travelled with him to Ephesus, explained the way of God more perfectly to Apollos, and hosted a church in their house.
Why it matters: the purpose of their role
Paul thanked them for risking their lives for him and said all the churches of the Gentiles gave thanks for them; they show how a married couple and an open home can serve the gospel.
Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus: Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. Romans 16:3-4 (KJV)
Bible references
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. And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers. Acts 18:2-3 (KJV)
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. Acts 18:18 (KJV)
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. Acts 18:26 (KJV)
Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus: Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. Romans 16:3-4 (KJV)
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 16:19 (KJV)
Family
- Spouse(s)
- Husband (Aquila) and wife (Priscilla)