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Priscilla and Aquila
1. Priscilla and Aquila were a married Christian couple who played a significant role in the early Christian movement. Their story is primarily found in the book of Acts.
2. Priscilla, sometimes referred to as Prisca, and Aquila are first mentioned in Acts 18:2, where they are introduced as tentmakers from Pontus. They had been forced to leave Rome due to a decree by Emperor Claudius expelling Jews from the city. They arrive in Corinth, where they meet the apostle Paul.
3. Paul, who was also a tentmaker, stays and works with Priscilla and Aquila, forming a close bond with them. Together, they not only work together in their trade but also engage in sharing the Gospel message. They become active contributors to the early Christian community in Corinth.
4. In Acts 18:18-19, Priscilla and Aquila accompany Paul on his journey from Corinth to Ephesus. However, when they reach Ephesus, Paul continues on his missionary journey, while Priscilla and Aquila decide to stay in Ephesus and establish themselves there. They open their home to a prominent preacher named Apollos and provide him with further instruction about Jesus Christ, expanding his understanding of the faith (Acts 18:24-26).
5. Priscilla and Aquila are later mentioned again in Paul's letter to the Romans, where Paul sends greetings and acknowledges their partnership in his ministry (Romans 16:3-5). They are described as "fellow workers in Christ Jesus" who risked their lives for Paul's sake.
6. Their influence extends beyond Ephesus, as they are portrayed as actively involved in the early Christian movement. Priscilla and Aquila are seen as respected leaders, teachers, and mentors within the early Christian community.
7. Priscilla and Aquila's story in Acts highlights their commitment to their faith and their willingness to use their skills and resources to support the spread of Christianity. They exemplify hospitality, mentorship, and partnership in ministry. Their inclusion in Paul's greetings and their significant contributions to the early church demonstrate the important roles that women and married couples played in the growth and development of the Christian community.