Who is Aquila in the Bible?
Aquila in the Bible is a significant figure known for his partnership with Paul the Apostle in spreading the message of Jesus Christ. He and his wife Priscilla played a pivotal role in the early Christian community, showcasing the importance of collaboration in ministry.
Aquila’s Background
Aquila was a Jewish tentmaker from Pontus, a region in modern-day Turkey. He first appears in Acts 18 when he relocates to Corinth. The historical context of his time reveals a diverse and bustling environment where many cultures and religions coexisted. Having lived through the expulsion of Jews from Rome around A.D. 49, Aquila sought refuge in Corinth, where he continued his trade in tent-making.
The name Aquila means “eagle” in Latin, which symbolizes strength and vision. This is quite fitting for someone who, together with Priscilla, helped to spread Christianity, showing resilience and dedication.
Aquila and Priscilla: A Partnership in Faith
Aquila’s wife, Priscilla, is equally noteworthy. Together, they are often mentioned in the New Testament, highlighting their complementary roles in ministry. In Acts 18:2-3, the couple is introduced as fellow tentmakers and close companions of Paul. The Bible emphasizes their teamwork, as they often worked side by side, both in their trade and in their spiritual endeavors.
Priscilla is mentioned before Aquila in some passages, suggesting she may have held a prominent role in their ministry. Their bond signifies the importance of partnership in both personal and professional life. They traveled together, shared their faith, and provided guidance to other believers.
Helping New Believers: The Case of Apollos
One of the most impactful moments in Aquila’s story comes in Acts 18:24-26, where he and Priscilla meet a man named Apollos, described as “eloquent and well-versed in the Scriptures.” While Apollos had zeal for preaching, his understanding of Jesus was incomplete. This is where Aquila and Priscilla shine—demonstrating humility and wisdom, they took him aside to explain the way of God more accurately.
Aquila’s role in mentoring Apollos reflects the importance of teaching and guiding new believers. His approach emphasizes the need for discernment and compassion in ministry, ensuring that others receive sound doctrine.
Ministry in Ephesus and Rome
Aquila’s travels with Paul led them to various cities, including Ephesus and later back to Rome. In Ephesus, once again, they opened their home to others, fostering a space for worship and teaching. The couple established themselves as crucial leaders in the Christian community, helping to lay the foundation for the church in that city.
In Romans 16:3-5, Paul writes a heartfelt message of greeting to Aquila and Priscilla, referring to them as his “fellow workers in Christ Jesus.” Paul commends their commitment and hospitality, acknowledging how they risked their lives for him. This illustrates their unwavering dedication and the sacrifices they made for the sake of their faith and community.
Returning to Rome, Aquila and Priscilla continued to support the Christian church, which had grown in their absence. Their house in Rome became a significant place for early believers to gather.
The Legacy of Aquila
The impact of Aquila and his wife Priscilla extends beyond their lifetime. Their story highlights the importance of supportive partnerships in faith and ministry. They embody the principles of teamwork, love, and sacrifice.
Aquila’s character serves as an inspiring example for other believers. His actions remind Christians of the significance of welcoming newcomers, offering guidance, and standing firm in their faith. The way he, alongside Priscilla, worked to nurture the early church is a model for all who wish to invest in their communities today.
Final Thoughts
Aquila’s journey in the Bible reflects a life committed to service, faith, and collaboration. From his humble beginnings as a tentmaker to his significant contributions to early Christianity, his story is a compelling testament to the power of community and partnership in spreading the gospel. His enduring legacy serves as a guiding light for many faithful believers, encouraging them to be active participants in their spiritual journeys.
Common Questions Related to Aquila In The Bible
Q. Who was Aquila in the Bible?
A. Aquila was a Jewish tentmaker and companion of Paul, known for his crucial role in early Christianity alongside his wife, Priscilla.
Q. What was Aquila’s relationship with Priscilla?
A. Aquila was married to Priscilla, and together, they worked closely in ministry, supporting and mentoring other believers.
Q. Why is Aquila important in the New Testament?
A. Aquila is important because he represented partnership in ministry, assisting Paul and mentoring Apollos, showing the collaborative spirit of early Christians.
Q. What role did Aquila play in Apollos’ ministry?
A. Aquila, with Priscilla, helped Apollos understand the gospel more fully by providing guidance and teaching him the way of God accurately.
Q. Where did Aquila live before moving to Corinth?
A. Before moving to Corinth, Aquila lived in Pontus, a region in modern-day Turkey, and later lived in Rome.
Q. In which book of the Bible do we find Aquila mentioned?
A. Aquila is mentioned primarily in the book of Acts and also has references in Romans.
Q. What does the name Aquila mean?
A. The name Aquila means “eagle” in Latin, symbolizing strength and vision.
Q. How did Aquila and Priscilla support Paul?
A. Aquila and Priscilla supported Paul by working alongside him, providing hospitality, and risking their lives in service of the gospel.
Q. What does Romans 16:3-5 say about Aquila?
A. Romans 16:3-5 commends Aquila and Priscilla as fellow workers with Paul, acknowledging their significant contributions to the church.
Q. What can we learn from Aquila’s life?
A. We can learn the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and dedication in faith and community from Aquila’s life as depicted in the Bible.
Explore Further
If you found this page about Aquila interesting and would like to discover more about other biblical characters, explore our comprehensive Encyclopedia of Biblical Characters. For those looking to delve deeper into the Greek origins of these names and terms, our Greek Lexicon is an invaluable resource.