MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD FOR CHRIST
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All Scripture is not only God-breathed but perfectly crafted. The Divine Author has chosen to include people and events to inspire and instruct. Priscilla and Aquila were two believers from whom we can discover much about the nature of servant leadership. As some of the first missionaries in the early church, these faithful, faith-filled Christians were mighty forces for the kingdom of God.
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:45
Our model and mentor Jesus Christ exemplified the essence of servant leadership. Aquila and Priscilla were imitators and disciples of Christ who walked in His love (Ephesians 5:1-2). By looking closely at their lives and ministry, we can learn how to become servant leaders…
◊ Discover God’s will, vision and purpose for your life – Seek His call and anointing
“Paul left Athens and went to Corinth. There he met a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had ordered all Jews to leave Rome. Paul went to see them, and because he was a tentmaker as they were, he stayed and worked with them.” – Acts 18:1-3
In Corinth, Priscilla and Aquila meet the apostle Paul traveling on his second missionary journey. This is no chance meeting. This is a divine appointment… a providential encounter. Like Paul, they are Jews by birth and heritage. Yet all are devout followers of Christ. The couple have moved to this town in Greece after being expelled with all Jews from Rome by the emperor Claudius.
Aquila and Priscilla share the common trade of tentmaking with Paul. This solidifies their Christian bond. Their time spent together allows Paul to impart his wealth of spiritual wisdom that deepens this couple’s faith and knowledge of Scripture. On their quest to discover God’s will and mission for their lives, the apostle Paul no doubt greatly influences their decision to become servant leaders for the gospel.
◊ Be Spirit-led, inspired and empowered – Team up with fellow Christians
“Paul stayed on in Corinth for some time. Then he left the brothers and sisters and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila… They arrived at Ephesus, where Paul left Priscilla and Aquila.” – Acts 18:18-19
Aquila and Priscilla are attuned to the Spirit’s guidance and follow Paul to Ephesus. For their trade as tentmakers allows them to travel wherever God leads. This town, a major crossroads of trade in Asia, becomes their vibrant new venue for ministry. They work as a team, tapping into the Spirit’s power to make a difference in the world for Christ.
◊ Be a shepherd to the flock – Disciple with the love and compassion of Christ
“Not only I but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them.” – Romans 16:4
At this time, the early church is flourishing among the Gentiles. Priscilla and Aquila are key players… influencers for the kingdom. They are loved, respected and appreciated throughout the church communities. They emulate their Savior… shepherding and discipling, mentoring and evangelizing.
◊ Teach God’s truth – Use your spiritual gifts to serve – Practice hospitality
“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.” – 1 Corinthians 16:19
Priscilla and Aquila live out God’s Word in their lives. They capitalize on their spiritual strengths and divine gifts. They open their homes for church meetings wherever they live… whether Corinth, Ephesus or Rome. They offer warm, welcoming sites for worship and teaching of the truth… paving the way for many to come to salvation.
◊ Stay grounded in God’s Word – Lead others to the truth with grace
“A Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor and taught about Jesus accurately, though he knew only the baptism of John. He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately.” – Acts 18:24-26
Apollos gains prominence in Ephesus as a dynamic orator and debater. Although he is knowledgeable about Scripture, Aquila and Priscilla notice gaps in his understanding of the gospel message. He knows only the teaching of John the Baptist… baptism for repentance of sin. The couple brings him to their home and shares with grace the full message of Christ.
Priscilla and Aquila have a mighty impact on Apollos’ life and future. Once he comes to understand the complete truth of the gospel, Apollos travels to the region of Achaia in southern Greece. There, he fortifies the believing community by publicly debating the Jews who oppose their beliefs… proving from Scripture the truth of Jesus the Messiah (Acts 18:28).
◊ Step out of your comfort zone – Be bold and courageous through the Spirit
“They risked their lives for me.” – Romans 16:4
The exact way that Aquila and Priscilla placed their lives in danger for Paul is not known. Yet his praise indicates that they acted bravely and loyally. Paul faced much opposition and persecution throughout his time of ministry. Perhaps it was one such time where they stepped out in faith to rescue him.
◊ Stay humble – Remember Who you serve – Do all under Christ’s lordship for His glory
“Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in Christ Jesus… Greet also the church that meets at their house.” – Romans 16:3, 5
Paul calls Priscilla and Aquila his co-workers in Christ, compatriots in the mission of spreading the gospel. This couple practices the kingdom values taught by Jesus that run counter to societal norms. For the true greatness of a leader is characterized by humility. Servant leaders dedicate their all to the glory of Christ.
† Eternal Takeaway: Servant leaders serve under the mentorship of Christ †
