Aquila.
Probably for Latin aquila (an eagle); Akulas, an Israelite -- Aquila.
Aquila (6).
, Aquila, a Jew of Pontus, a tent-maker, convert to Christ, companion and ally of Paul in propagating the Christian religion:
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Topical Lexicon
Name and settingAquila, a Jewish believer from Pontus, is introduced inActs 18 during Paul’s second missionary journey. Forced to leave Rome under Emperor Claudius’ edict expelling Jews (circa A.D. 49), he and his wife Priscilla settled in Corinth, where Luke first records their encounter with Paul.
Trade and vocation
Tentmaking provided Aquila with both livelihood and ministry platform. Because Paul “was of the same trade, he stayed with them and worked with them, for they were tentmakers by trade” (Acts 18:3). The shared craft fostered close fellowship, illustrating how ordinary work can be harnessed for Gospel purposes and mutual support within the body of Christ.
Partnership with Paul
Aquila rapidly became one of Paul’s most trusted co-laborers. After eighteen months in Corinth, he accompanied Paul to Ephesus (Acts 18:18) and remained there to strengthen the fledgling church. Paul later salutes the couple as “my fellow workers in Christ Jesus” (Romans 16:3), acknowledging their sacrificial aid—even to the point of risking their lives (Romans 16:4). Their homes in both Ephesus (1 Corinthians 16:19) and Rome (Romans 16:5) served as meeting places, making them pioneers in the house-church movement.
Instructional ministry
Aquila’s spiritual maturity appears most clearly in his quiet yet decisive role with Apollos. “When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him in and explained to him the way of God more accurately” (Acts 18:26). By combining doctrinal precision with hospitable discipleship, they safeguarded the nascent church from error while empowering a gifted preacher to greater usefulness.
Geographic mobility
Scripture traces Aquila from Corinth to Ephesus and eventually back to Rome, before another probable return to Ephesus (2 Timothy 4:19). His willingness to relocate for kingdom service mirrors the missionary impulse that characterized first-century Christianity. The couple’s presence in major urban centers helped consolidate Pauline church-planting efforts across the Mediterranean.
Ecclesial impact
1. House-church leadership: Repeated references to “the church that meets at their house” highlight Aquila’s stewardship of hospitality, providing safe space for worship, teaching, and fellowship.
2. Model of marital teamwork: Aquila and Priscilla consistently appear together, exemplifying complementary ministry and mutual submission within marriage.
3. Defense of apostolic doctrine: Their correction of Apollos showcases lay involvement in theological safeguarding under apostolic authority.
Theological and pastoral significance
Aquila embodies the New Testament vision of every believer as a minister. His account affirms that vocational calling and spiritual calling are not mutually exclusive; rather, secular skills can advance sacred mission. His loyalty to Paul underscores the unity and continuity of the apostolic message across geographic and cultural boundaries.
Lessons for the church today
• Leverage marketplace skills for evangelism and mentoring.
• Offer homes as strategic centers for worship and discipleship.
• Cultivate doctrinal discernment coupled with gracious instruction.
• Embrace mobility and flexibility for the sake of the Gospel.
• Serve in tandem with family, demonstrating the strength of shared devotion.
Key references
Acts 18:2-3, 18, 26;Romans 16:3-4;1 Corinthians 16:19;2 Timothy 4:19.
Forms and Transliterations
ακροτηρίον ακροτήριον ακρωτηρίοις ακρωτηρίων Ακυλαν Ἀκύλαν Ακυλας Ἀκύλας ακύρους Akulan Akulas Akylan Akýlan Akylas AkýlasLinks
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