PRISCILLA: A Fellow Worker in Christ

The Bible often presents women as mothers and keepers of the home, which was understandable since these were their primary roles. But Priscilla (also called “Prisca”) was different. The Bible does not highlight her in these areas. Instead, she was a woman of many roles—a remarkable servant of God in the apostolic age. Her faith and service made a lasting contribution to the early church.

THE TENTMAKER

Luke first introduced us to Aquila and Priscilla, noting that, like Paul, they were tentmakers (Acts 18:2–3). When Paul arrived in Corinth, he stayed with them (v. 1). Tentmaking was a common trade in their setting. Tents were usually made of leather or woven goat hair, serving as portable shelters for travelers and merchants. Scholars also suggest that “tentmakers” may have referred broadly to leather workers, meaning they likely produced other leather goods as well. The nature of their craft made it easy for them to move from one place to another since they only needed to bring their tools. Priscilla was not confined to managing her household—she worked alongside her husband in business.

THE TEACHER

When Paul left Corinth, he brought Priscilla and Aquila with him on his mission (v. 18). Interestingly, Luke sometimes mentioned Priscilla before her husband. Some scholars suggest this indicates she may have had a more prominent role or influence than Aquila. Then came Apollos: “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” (vv. 24–25). Clearly, Apollos was no ordinary believer. He was intelligent, bold, and effective in preaching about Christ. Yet, he still lacked full understanding: “he knew only the baptism of John” (v. 25). When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and “explained to him the way of God more adequately” (v. 26). Again, Priscilla is mentioned first. Whether she was more knowledgeable or simply more active in the discussion, it is evident that she played a central role. Her involvement in teaching was unusual for women in her time, which is why this instruction happened in private.

THE TRUSTED WORKER

Together with Aquila, Priscilla became a highly respected servant of God. Paul mentioned them several times in his letters, acknowledging their great contribution. “Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks but all the churches of the Gentiles give thanks as well” (Rom. 16:3–4). Paul also noted that a church met in their home (Rom. 16:19), reflecting their active ministry.
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Priscilla began as a supportive wife in business, but God led her beyond that. She became a key figure in the early church as both worker and mentor. Her life is a testimony that any believer can make an extraordinary impact on others. God can accomplish mighty things through His committed followers. Priscilla’s active role not only strengthened leaders like Paul and Apollos but also set an example for us today. “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers” (Gal. 6:10). Stay Curious.