Priscilla --- A Tireless Worker For The Lord

If ever there was a tireless worker in the early church, it would have to have been the godly woman, Priscilla. From the Scriptures, we know that Paul not only lived with Priscilla and her husband Aquila while in Corinth, but he worked beside them in their tent making business (Acts 18:3). Their close-knit friendship and love for Paul is seen in the fact that they risked their own lives for him (Romans 16:3-4). We can only imagine the discussions that must have taken place as they tirelessly worked side by side with the great apostle. It must have been a treasured blessing to have been so closely associated with someone so strong in the faith (cf. 1 Corinthians 16:13; Philippians 1:27; 1 Peter 5:8-9).

We first meet Priscilla and her husband Aquila in Acts 18:2. They had moved to Corinth following the exile of the Jews from Rome under the Roman emperor, Claudius. In the few verses that mention Priscilla and Aquila, we gain much insight into their relationship, character, and diligence in doing the work of the Lord.

In Acts 18:24, we read of a certain Jew named Apollos — "an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures." As Priscilla and Aquila heard him proclaim the gospel, they realized he lacked a complete understanding, “knowing only the baptism of John” (Acts 18:25; cf. Acts 19:1-5). Using the utmost discretion and avoiding unnecessary criticism, they took him aside and fully explained to him the things he did not already know and understand. It is obvious that Priscilla had a profound knowledge of the gospel and was eager to share it with others. As a result, Apollos was able to continue on with his teaching (Acts 18:27-28). It’s interesting to note that Priscilla did not teach Apollos in public, nor did she address an assembly of the saints to correct him, but was instrumental in helping him to recognize and turn from his error.

We are told in Romans 16:3-5 and 1 Corinthians 16:19 that the church met in home of Priscilla and Aquila. This godly woman practiced "hospitality" by opening up her home to others (Romans 12:13). There is no question that Priscilla was a courageous and tireless worker in the early church. How the Lord’s church would grow today if every congregation of the Lord’s people had a Priscilla in its midst.  Beloved, let us ask the Lord in prayer for more Priscillas!

—Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets