Topical Encyclopedia
Aquila is a significant figure in the New Testament, known for his close association with the Apostle Paul and his role in the early Christian church. He is often mentioned alongside his wife, Priscilla (also known as Prisca), and together they are depicted as a devoted Christian couple who played a crucial role in the spread of the Gospel.
Background and Early LifeAquila was a Jew from Pontus, a region located in what is now modern-day Turkey. His name, meaning "eagle" in Latin, suggests a Roman influence, which is consistent with the historical context of Jews living in the Roman Empire. Aquila and Priscilla are first introduced in the Book of Acts, where it is noted that they had recently come from Italy because Emperor Claudius had ordered all Jews to leave Rome (
Acts 18:2).
Association with PaulAquila and Priscilla met Paul in Corinth, where they shared the same trade as tentmakers. This common occupation facilitated a close working relationship and friendship between them.
Acts 18:3 states, "and because he was of the same trade, he stayed with them and worked, for they were tentmakers by trade." This partnership extended beyond their trade, as Aquila and Priscilla became instrumental in Paul's ministry.
Ministry and InfluenceAquila and Priscilla's influence in the early church is evident through their hospitality and teaching. They are noted for their role in instructing Apollos, an eloquent speaker and knowledgeable teacher of the Scriptures, who only knew the baptism of John.
Acts 18:26 records, "When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him in and explained to him the way of God more accurately." This act of discipleship highlights their deep understanding of Christian doctrine and their commitment to nurturing new believers.
Later Life and LegacyThe couple's dedication to the church is further emphasized in Paul's letters. In
Romans 16:3-4 , Paul sends greetings to them, stating, "Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who have risked their lives for me. Not only I but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them." This acknowledgment underscores their significant contributions and the high regard in which they were held by the early Christian community.
Aquila and Priscilla are also mentioned in
1 Corinthians 16:19 and
2 Timothy 4:19 , indicating their continued involvement in the church and their movement between different regions, including Ephesus and Rome. Their home often served as a meeting place for believers, demonstrating their hospitality and leadership within the church.
Theological SignificanceAquila's life and ministry, alongside Priscilla, exemplify the collaborative nature of early Christian work and the importance of laypeople in the spread of the Gospel. Their account highlights themes of hospitality, discipleship, and the willingness to support and protect fellow believers, even at great personal risk. Through their example, Aquila and Priscilla serve as models of faithfulness and dedication to the mission of the church.
Library
Hymnus Ante Cibum
... 160. Agnus enim vice mirifica ecce leonibus inperitat: exagitansque trucesaquilas
per vaga nubila, perque notos sidere lapsa columba fugat. 165....
Thesaurus
Aquilas (6 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance
Aquilas (6 Occurrences). Acts 18:2 and having found
a certain Jew, by name
Aquilas, of Pontus by birth, lately
...Ar (7 Occurrences)
Onesiph'orus (2 Occurrences)
... 2 Timothy 4:19 Salute Prisca andAquilas, and Onesiphorus' household; (See RSV).
Onesiphorus, Onesiph'orus. One-tenth . Reference Bible.
Directed (75 Occurrences)
... Acts 18:2 and having found a certain Jew, by nameAquilas, of Pontus by birth, lately
come from Italy, and Priscilla his wife -- because of Claudius having...
Priscilla (7 Occurrences)
... that is in their house. (WEB KJV DBY WBS YLT NIV). 2 Timothy 4:19 Salute
Prisca andAquilas, and Onesiphorus' household; (See NIV)....
Cenchera (1 Occurrence)
... Paul having remained yet a good many days, having taken leave of the brethren, was
sailing to Syria -- and with him 'are' Priscilla andAquilas -- having shorn...
Cen'chre-ae (2 Occurrences)
... Paul having remained yet a good many days, having taken leave of the brethren, was
sailing to Syria -- and with him 'are' Priscilla andAquilas -- having shorn...
Aq'uila (6 Occurrences)
Aq'uila. Aquila, Aq'uila.Aquilas . Multi-Version Concordance Aq'uila (6
Occurrences).... (See RSV). Aquila, Aq'uila.Aquilas . Reference Bible.
Sailing (23 Occurrences)
... Paul having remained yet a good many days, having taken leave of the brethren, was
sailing to Syria -- and with him 'are' Priscilla andAquilas -- having shorn...
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