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Aquila

The Faithful Builder Who Used His Trade for the Gospel

1st century AD

Name Information

Meaning
Possibly derived from Latin for 'eagle'
Language of Origin
Latin
Gender Usage
Masculine

Aquila was a Jewish Christian tentmaker who, with his wife Priscilla, worked alongside Paul and helped disciple leaders like Apollos. Together, they opened their home to the church and supported ministry across cities like Corinth, Ephesus, and Rome. Aquila’s quiet strength and faithful presence show how God uses working believers for His kingdom.

Roles

TentmakerDisciple-makerChurch Host

Relationships

Wife
Priscilla
Co-worker
Paul

Story

Teamed up with Paul in Corinth to support themselves and spread the Gospel.

Traveled to Ephesus and hosted a church in their home.

Continued helping wherever God sent them — showing Gospel flexibility.

Honored by Paul in Romans and later greeted in Timothy’s letter.

Spiritual Significance

  1. 1Expelled from Rome with Priscilla and met Paul in Corinth.
  2. 2Worked in the same trade as Paul — tentmaking.
  3. 3Helped instruct Apollos and strengthen churches.
  4. 4Mentioned with honor in multiple letters.
  5. 5Provided stability, hospitality, and wisdom in ministry.

Christ Connection

Aquila’s work helped proclaim Christ and train Gospel leaders.

His life reflects the servant-hearted nature of Jesus.

He laid down comfort to advance the kingdom of Christ.

What We Can Learn

  1. 1God uses everyday vocations to build His church.
  2. 2Faithful laypeople can have massive Gospel influence.
  3. 3Partnership in marriage is a powerful ministry model.
  4. 4Consistency over fame builds lasting fruit in the kingdom.

Memory Verses

Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus...

Romans 16:3

Key Passages

Acts 18:1–3Romans 16:3–51 Corinthians 16:192 Timothy 4:19

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