The city of Ephesus, nestled in the western coast of Asia Minor, was a bustling metropolis in the 1st century AD during the early years of Christianity. It was a hub of commerce, culture, and spirituality, drawing travelers and traders from all corners of the Roman world. A remarkable couple, Aquila and Priscilla, made Ephesus their home and dedicated their lives to spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Aquila and Priscilla in Ephesus, a husband-and-wife team, were a dynamic and dedicated duo in the early Christian church. Their story is a testament to the power of faith, friendship, and ministry, as they left an unquestionable mark on the city of Ephesus and the wider Christian community.
Aquila and Priscilla’s Journey to Ephesus
According to the New Testament, Aquila and Priscilla were from Pontus, which is today’s Turkish Black Sea region located in northern Asia Minor. They had been exiled from Jerusalem by Emperor Claudius to Corinth, where they likely encountered the Apostle Paul and other gentile believers.
In 49 AD, Paul, who had recently been converted to Christianity, met Aquila and Priscilla in Corinth, Greece. He was immediately drawn to their faith and their skills as tentmakers, which allowed them to support themselves and their ministry while travelling. Paul recognized the potential of this talented couple and saw an opportunity to utilize their expertise for the sake of the gospel.
Ephesus Becomes Home for Aquila and Priscilla
With Paul’s encouragement and company, Aquila and Priscilla set their sights on the city of Ephesus. They likely arrived in Ephesus around 50 AD, where they established a business as tentmakers, supplying the city’s many festivals, army and theatrical performances.
As a Jewish couple, they would have been familiar with the Jewish community in Ephesus, which was known for its vibrant synagogues and intellectual pursuits. They would have also been aware of the city’s rich ethnic heritage, which was shaped by its close connection to the eastern Mediterranean.
Ministry of Aquila and Priscilla in Ephesus
Aquila and Priscilla’s ministry in Ephesus was marked by a deep commitment to the spread of the gospel. They likely worked closely with Paul, who had established a strong church in Ephesus, and other gentile believers who had also fled from Rome.
Their ministry was characterized by a unique blend of faith, friendship, and practical skills. As tentmakers, they were well-equipped to serve the needs of the church and followers, providing financial support and logistical expertise to the growing community of believers.
One of the most significant aspects of their ministry was their relationship with the Apostle Paul. As his closest companions in Ephesus, they played a crucial role in supporting his missionary work. They likely accompanied him on missionary journeys, provided hospitality to traveling believers, and shared their own faith stories with others.
Theological Contributions from Aquila and Priscilla
Aquila and Priscilla’s theological contributions to the early Christian church are also noteworthy. As a Jewish couple, they would have been deeply familiar with the Old Testament and its teachings. They would have brought this expertise to their ministry, using their knowledge of Jewish scripture to explain the significance of Jesus Christ to their Jewish contemporaries.
Their theological contributions are reflected in the writings of the Apostle Paul, who frequently references their ministry in his epistles. In 1 Corinthians 16:19, for example, Paul writes to the church in Corinth, “The churches in the province of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Priscilla greet you warmly in the Lord, and so does the church that meets at their house.” Or also you can see their names mentioned in Romans 16:3 ”Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in Christ Jesus.”.
Learn More About Priscilla and Aquila in Ephesus and Hire A Biblical Tour Guide in Ephesus
The time of Aquila and Priscilla in Ephesus was a remarkable period in the early Christian church. As a dynamic duo, they left an indelible mark on the city and the wider Christian community. Their faith, friendship, and ministry served as a powerful witness to the transforming power of Jesus Christ, and their legacy continues to inspire believers to this day.
As we reflect on their story, we are reminded of the importance of faith, friendship, and ministry in the lives of believers. Aquila and Priscilla’s story is a testament to the power of the gospel to transform lives and communities, and it serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the early Christian church.
In the words of the Apostle Paul, “And now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the kindness of God that has been shown in the city of the Ephesians” (Acts 19:26). The kindness of God was certainly evident in the lives of Aquila and Priscilla, who were used mightily by God to spread the gospel in the city of Ephesus. May their story inspire us to live out our faith with boldness, courage, and compassion, just as they did in the 1st century AD.
Contact me to learn more on Priscilla and Aquila and also to hire a professional, Biblical tour guide for Ephesus Ancient City and nearby attractions such as the Basilica of Saint John and the House of Virgin Mary. See you soon, Hasan Gülday.
