They are mentioned three times by Luke in the book of Acts. They also are mentioned three times by Paul in his letters. These six references are all we know about Aquila and Priscilla from Scripture. But oh the impact this couple had on so many! Even now, they stand out as a great example of a marvelous husband-wife team. The Psalmist declared, “Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together!” (Psalms 34:3). Aquila and Priscilla excelled in applying this passage to their marriage. When husbands and wives side-by-side serve Jesus, a great relationship can be made even better! Every time we read of them in the Bible, they always are together serving God and others.
They Learned and Grew Together in Christ. One can imagine the conversations they must have had with the apostle Paul as they worked together with him in tent making and in the gospel! (Acts 18:1-3). They made the most of this great opportunity. Aquila and Priscilla truly were heirs together of “the grace of life” (1 Peter 3:7). There was no “spiritual mismatch” here!
They Instructed Others in Christ. The wonderful evangelistic work of this godly couple is seen in their instruction of Apollos in Acts 18:24-28. They beautifully blended both truth and love, tact and contact, in teaching this man “the way of the Lord more perfectly.” Their investment in Apollos proved to be a tremendous blessing to the cause of Christ! We may not possess particularly great gifts and abilities ourselves, but we can be faithful. And by that faithfulness, we can mightily encourage many throughout our lifetimes to use their considerable gifts in proclaiming “the unsearchable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8).
They Made Their Home a Center of Worship and Work to God’s Glory. This is especially seen in 1 Corinthians 16:19. How blessed our families and friends would be if more of the spirit of Aquila and Priscilla were seen today! There was an appropriate emphasis upon work and business; there also was a strong emphasis upon worship and praise. Blessed are the balanced!
They Together “Risked Their Necks” For Jesus and the Gospel So That Many Gave Thanks For Their Love and Faith. Read Romans 16:3-5 and let them sink in. What encouragers in the Lord Aquila and Priscilla were! Paul’s words are an incredible tribute not only to this godly couple but to others who have followed their humble example over the years.
They Had a Beautiful “Track Record” of Faithfulness to the Lord. The last mention of this couple in the New Testament is found in 2 Timothy 4:19, where they are the recipients of the apostle’s heartfelt love. 2 Timothy, of course, was written not too long prior to Paul’s own death in the service of our Lord. From the first recorded mention of Aquila and Priscilla in Acts 18 to this final one, their lives are characterized by faithful love and commitment.
There always will be a great need for marriages that excel in showing Jesus. Side-by-side throughout their time together on earth, Aquila and Priscilla helped each other get home to God – and countless others too. May their tribe not only increase but multiply – all to the glory of God.
Mike Vestal
