Priscilla

Priscilla (also called Prisca) and her husband Aquila were Jewish tentmakers expelled from Rome under Claudius's edict. They settled in Corinth, where Paul joined their trade and ministry. When Paul left for Syria, Priscilla and Aquila accompanied him to Ephesus, where they stayed to establish the church.

In Ephesus, they encountered Apollos, an eloquent and learned Alexandrian Jew who "taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John." Rather than publicly correcting him, Priscilla and Aquila "took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly." This private instruction helped Apollos become a powerful advocate for Christ.

Priscilla is notable for being named before her husband in several passages—unusual in that culture and suggesting her prominent role. Paul called them "my helpers in Christ Jesus: who have for my life laid down their own necks." They hosted churches in their homes in both Ephesus and Rome, demonstrating their continued commitment.

The couple's partnership models mutual ministry between husband and wife. They worked together in business, traveled together for mission, taught together, and risked their lives together for Paul. Their story shows that some of the church's most important work happens through faithful couples serving side by side.