CHARACTER STUDY OF AQUILA – TENTMAKER AND HELPER OF PAUL
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Acts 18:1-3
"After these things Paul departed from Athens and went to Corinth. And he found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla (because Claudius had commanded all the Jews to depart from Rome); and he came to them. So, because he was of the same trade, he stayed with them and worked; for by occupation they were tentmakers." (Acts 18:1-3, NKJV)
Supporting Texts: Romans 16:3-5, 1 Corinthians 16:19, 2 Timothy 4:19
INTRODUCTION
Aquila was a Jewish believer who, alongside his wife Priscilla, played a crucial role in supporting the ministry of Paul and strengthening the early church. He was a tentmaker by profession, a teacher of the Word, and a committed servant of God. His life demonstrates the power of partnership in ministry, hospitality, and dedication to spreading the Gospel.
1. AQUILA WAS A FAITHFUL SERVANT OF GOD
a) He was a Jew from Pontus (Acts 18:2)
Aquila was originally from Pontus, a region in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). Despite his background, he embraced the Gospel and became a devoted Christian.
b) He and his wife were expelled from Rome (Acts 18:2)
Aquila and Priscilla were among the Jews forced to leave Rome under Emperor Claudius’ decree. Even in difficulty, they remained faithful to their calling.
c) He worked as a tentmaker (Acts 18:3)
Aquila was not only a preacher but also a skilled worker. He and Paul shared the same trade, showing that ministry and work can go hand in hand.
d) He was hospitable to Paul (Acts 18:3)
Aquila and Priscilla opened their home to Paul, providing him with a place to stay and work, demonstrating generosity and kindness.
e) Biblical Example: Lydia’s hospitality (Acts 16:14-15)
Like Aquila, Lydia used her home and resources to support the work of the Gospel.
2. AQUILA WAS A STRONG PARTNER IN MINISTRY
a) He worked closely with Priscilla (Acts 18:18)
Aquila and his wife Priscilla were always mentioned together, showing that they were united in ministry.
b) He travelled with Paul (Acts 18:18)
Aquila and Priscilla accompanied Paul to Ephesus, demonstrating their commitment to the spread of the Gospel.
c) He hosted and led a house church (1 Corinthians 16:19)
The church in Corinth met in their home, making them leaders in the early Christian movement.
d) He risked his life for Paul (Romans 16:3-4)
Paul acknowledged that Aquila and Priscilla had risked their lives for him, showing their deep commitment to the Gospel.
e) Biblical Example: Barnabas supporting Paul (Acts 9:26-27)
Just as Barnabas encouraged and stood by Paul, Aquila also played a supportive role in his ministry.
3. AQUILA WAS A TEACHER OF THE WORD
a) He and Priscilla instructed Apollos (Acts 18:24-26)
Aquila helped teach Apollos, a powerful preacher, correcting and completing his knowledge of the Gospel.
b) He had a deep understanding of the Scriptures (Acts 18:26)
His ability to teach Apollos shows that he was well-versed in the Word of God.
c) He was a mentor to others (Acts 18:26)
Aquila not only learned from Paul but also discipled others, passing on the truth of the Gospel.
d) He ministered in different cities (Acts 18:18-19, 1 Corinthians 16:19)
Aquila and Priscilla moved between Corinth, Ephesus, and Rome, spreading the message wherever they went.
e) Biblical Example: Paul teaching Timothy (2 Timothy 2:2)
Like Paul mentoring Timothy, Aquila and Priscilla took time to disciple Apollos, showing the importance of teaching others in the faith.
4. AQUILA WAS A DEDICATED FOLLOWER OF CHRIST
a) He remained faithful despite challenges (Acts 18:2)
Being expelled from Rome did not shake his faith; instead, he continued serving God.
b) He prioritised ministry over personal comfort (Romans 16:3-5)
Aquila and Priscilla risked their lives for the Gospel and used their home as a place of worship.
c) He stayed committed to Paul even in later years (2 Timothy 4:19)
Even when Paul was in prison, Aquila and Priscilla remained steadfast in their faith and ministry.
d) He impacted both Jews and Gentiles (Acts 18:26-28)
Through his ministry, Aquila influenced both Jewish and Gentile believers, helping to spread the Gospel widely.
e) Biblical Example: The Apostle John’s faithfulness (Revelation 1:9)
Like John, who remained faithful despite persecution, Aquila continued to serve God through all challenges.
5. AQUILA TEACHES US KEY LESSONS FOR CHRISTIAN LIFE AND MINISTRY
a) Ministry and work can go together (Acts 18:3)
Aquila balanced his trade as a tentmaker with his ministry, showing that one can serve God faithfully while working.
b) Hospitality is a powerful tool in ministry (Acts 18:3, 1 Corinthians 16:19)
Opening their home for Paul and the church made a significant impact on the spread of the Gospel.
c) True ministry requires sacrifice (Romans 16:3-4)
Aquila risked his life and gave his resources to serve God, teaching that true commitment to ministry involves personal sacrifice.
d) Discipleship strengthens the Church (Acts 18:26)
By training Apollos, Aquila ensured that the Gospel was preached more effectively.
e) Biblical Example: Jesus sending out the disciples (Luke 10:1-3)
Like Jesus sending out His disciples, Aquila and Priscilla trained others to continue the work of ministry.
STRENGTHS OF AQUILA
1. Faithful servant of God – He remained committed despite challenges.
2. Hardworking and diligent – He balanced ministry and work.
3. Supportive and hospitable – He used his home and resources for ministry.
4. Effective teacher – He played a role in shaping Apollos’ ministry.
5. Willing to make sacrifices – He risked his life for the Gospel.
WEAKNESSES OF AQUILA
1. Often overshadowed by Priscilla – Priscilla is sometimes mentioned before him, indicating she may have been the more prominent teacher.
2. Had to relocate multiple times – Due to persecution and ministry demands, he faced instability in his personal life.
LESSONS TO LEARN FROM AQUILA
1. Serve God faithfully despite challenges – Difficulties should not stop us from fulfilling our calling.
2. Be diligent in work and ministry – Both secular work and God’s work are important.
3. Use your home and resources for God’s glory – Hospitality is a way to support the Gospel.
4. Be willing to disciple others – Investing in others strengthens the church.
5. Work together in unity – Ministry is more effective when done as a team.
CONCLUSION
Aquila was a faithful tentmaker, teacher, and partner in ministry. His life shows that ordinary people can play a significant role in God’s work through faithfulness, hospitality, and discipleship. His commitment to the Gospel, despite personal hardships, serves as an inspiration for all believers.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, help me to remain faithful in ministry and work.
2. Father, use me as a vessel to support and disciple others.
3. Lord, grant me a spirit of hospitality and generosity.
4. Father, help me to make sacrifices for the sake of the Gospel.
5. Lord, bless the work of my hands and let it glorify You.
