“And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.” — Acts 18:26
In Acts 18, we are presented to a power couple that made an impact in their service for the Lord. They were later mentioned again by Paul to the Roman believers (Romans 16:3), to the Corinthian believers (1 Corinthians 16:19), and to Timothy (2 Timothy 4:19). They were no ordinary couple, and this chapter points out their determination and dedication they possessed for God’s service.
- They Hosted — vs. 1-3
When Paul came to their area, they hosted him. He didn’t worry about a place to stay or food to eat, he was always taken care of when ministering near Aquila and Priscilla.
The Shunammite woman and her husband hosted Elisha by giving him food and a place to stay “as oft as he passed by” (2 Kings 4:8-10). John commended those that hosted and helped God’s servants to “bring forward on their journey after a godly sort” (3 John 5-8). The writer of Hebrews gives the reminder to “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares” (Hebrews 13:2). Hospitality is a prerequisite for a pastor/biship/elder (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8), encouraged to all believers (Romans 12:13), and commanded to be done without grudging (1 Peter 4:9).
- They Helped — vs. 18
Priscilla and Aquila were right there alongside Paul as he journeyed. Whether they helped prepare meals, carry luggage, provide encouraging words, or just sat next to him, they were the ones Paul called “my helpers” (Romans 16:3). What a compliment!
Every child of God should desire to be “fellowhelpers” of those carrying the Gospel (3 John 1:8). Yes, you need help, but determine to be a help to others. Help the lost know Christ, help the Christians grow, and help God’s workers be encouraged and continue serving God. We can all be helpers in God’s work. The credit is not to the person we are helping, but to the God we are ultimately serving.
- They Made Others Better — vs. 24-28
A certain eloquent preacher came to town named Apollos. He was known for being fervent in the spirit, mighty in the scriptures, and a diligent teacher. Though it was apparent he was already being used of the Lord, Aquila and Priscilla “took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly” (vs. 26). It seems they did this discreetly as to not embarrass, but they gave him more insight so much that “he mightily convinced the Jews” (vs. 28). Apollos was good, but he became even better as a result of his time with Aquila and Priscilla.
This should awaken us to be willing to be helped by others. Aquila and Priscilla were not in full-time ministry, but this did not deter Apollos from listening to them. God has used “non-ministry” people to teach me! Do not miss God’s lessons because the packaging is not what you anticipate… have open ears and a willing heart to learn from whomever God sends your way.
This should also awaken us to make others better. Whether someone is above you, below you, or next to you, you can be used of God to influence them for good. Determine that anyone God lets cross your paths will be a better person as a result of knowing you. Make them better by encouraging words, by wise insights, by personal prayers, and by your valuable time.
Aquila and Priscilla were a power couple because they allowed God to use their lives. As Joshua proclaimed to the people he was leading, “choose you this day whom ye will serve… but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:15). Serve God individually, but do not neglect to serve God with the spouse and family He has given you.