MODEL CHRISTIAN FAMILY
“I send greetings to Priscilla and Aquila”, are the words of Paul to Timothy (II Timy 4:19)
“Aquila and Priscilla” names are mentioned six times in Bible. Three times as Aquila and Priscilla and three times in reverse, giving equality to both. They were supporters of Paul in his ministry.
As Paul went to Corinth, he met Aquila a Jew,born in Pontus, and came recently to Italy with his wife, because emperor Claudius had ordered all the Jews to leave Rome. Paul stayed and worked with them, because he earned his living by making tents just as they did.
The benefits were, he discussed in synagogues every Sabbath convincing both Jews and Greeks that Jesus is the Messiah. When Silas and Timothy arrived, Paul gave his whole time, preaching, that Jesus is the Messiah. When he was opposed, he decided to go to the Gentiles (Acts 18:1-6). Paul took leave of the brothers in church and sailed to Syria. With him went Priscilla and Aquila and as they reached Ephesus, he left them there.
THE COUPLE WITH APOLLOS
A Jew named Apollos, who was born in Alexandria came to Ephesus. He was an eloquent speaker and mighty in scriptures. Hehad been instructed in the way of the Lord. With great enthusiasm, he proclaimed and taught correctly the facts about Jesus. But he knew only the Baptism of John. He spoke boldly in synagogues. The couple took him with them and explained to him more perfectly the way of God.
When Apollos decided to go to Achaia, the believers of Ephesus helped him by writing to the believers there, urging them to welcome him.
When he arrived, he was a great help to those who had become believers for, with his strong argument, he defeated the Jews in public debates, by providing the scripture that Jesus is the Messiah (Acts 18:24-28).
PAUL’S VISIT TO EPHESUS AGAIN
Paul met some disciples here and asked them whether they received the Holy Spirit.They were not aware of it. But they knew the baptism of John. He stated that John’s Baptism was for those who turned from sins. The Jew should Believe in Jesus and Be Baptised.Therefore, they were baptised in the name of Jesus. Paul placed his hands on them and the Holy Spirit came upon them.
PAUL SENDS GREETINGS FROM ROME(ROM 16:3-4)
Paul says “I send greetings to Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in the service of Jesus; They risked their lives for me; I am grateful to them”.
PAUL SENDS GREETINGS TO THE CHURCHES IN CORINTH (1COR 16:14-19)
Paul says “Churches in the Province of Asia sends you their greetings, Aquila and Priscilla and to the church that meets in their house, heartily, In the Lord.
TESTIMONY
Another good religious family we see in Acts, is the family of Cornelius who worshipped God, helped the poor Jewishpeople and was constantly prayed to God.
PRAYER
We pray oh Lord that all the Christian families should serve like the family of Aquila and Priscilla. Amen.
Sol.Victy Mithyla