Topical Encyclopedia Priscilla, also known as Prisca, is a prominent figure in the New Testament, recognized for her significant role in the early Christian church. She is often mentioned alongside her husband, Aquila, and together they are noted for their dedication to the ministry and their close association with the Apostle Paul.Background and Early Life Priscilla's background is not extensively detailed in the Scriptures, but it is known that she was a Jewish Christian. She and her husband, Aquila, were originally from Pontus, a region in modern-day Turkey. They later resided in Rome but were expelled by the edict of Emperor Claudius, which targeted Jews around AD 49. This expulsion led them to Corinth, where they encountered Paul. Ministry in Corinth Priscilla and Aquila's meeting with Paul in Corinth is recorded in Acts 18:1-3: "After this, Paul left Athens and went to Corinth. There he found a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had ordered all the Jews to leave Rome. Paul went to visit them, and because he was of the same trade, he stayed with them and worked with them, for they were tentmakers by trade." Their shared occupation as tentmakers facilitated a close working relationship with Paul, and they became his co-laborers in the Gospel. Priscilla and Aquila's home became a center for Christian teaching and fellowship, demonstrating their commitment to the early church. Role in Ephesus Priscilla and Aquila later traveled with Paul to Ephesus, where they continued their ministry. In Ephesus, they encountered Apollos, an eloquent speaker and knowledgeable in the Scriptures, but who only knew the baptism of John. Acts 18:26 describes their interaction: "He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. But when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him in and explained to him the way of God more accurately." This passage highlights Priscilla's theological acumen and her role in instructing Apollos, ensuring that he had a more complete understanding of the Christian faith. Her involvement in teaching Apollos underscores her significant role in the early church, as she was entrusted with the task of correcting and guiding a prominent teacher. Legacy and Influence Priscilla's influence extended beyond her immediate interactions. She and Aquila are mentioned in several of Paul's letters, indicating their ongoing involvement in the early Christian communities. In Romans 16:3-4, Paul writes, "Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their lives for me. Not only I but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them." This commendation from Paul highlights their dedication and the high regard in which they were held by the early church. Their willingness to risk their lives for the sake of the Gospel exemplifies their deep commitment to Christ and His mission. Conclusion Priscilla's life and ministry offer a powerful example of faithful service and leadership within the early church. Her partnership with Aquila and their collaboration with Paul played a crucial role in the spread of Christianity during its formative years. Through her teaching and hospitality, Priscilla left an indelible mark on the early Christian movement, serving as a model of discipleship and devotion. Nave's Topical Index Acts 18:1-3,18,19,26After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth; Nave's Topical Index Romans 16:3,4 1 Corinthians 16:19 2 Timothy 4:19 Library Paul in Corinth. Laboring under Difficulties 2 Timothy iv. 13-Sep Acts XVIII How the Question Arose About the Due Time of Keeping Easter, with ... 1 Cor. xvi. 10 Christian Churches. The Church History of Eusebius. Index of Subjects. The Transformation of Rome from a Pagan into a Christian City. Paul's Epistles; his Collection for the Poor Saints at Jerusalem ... Resources What is Montanism? | GotQuestions.orgWhat happened on Paul's second missionary journey? | GotQuestions.org What happened on Paul's third missionary journey? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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