Priscilla And Aquila: A Perfect Example For Ministry (I)

‘So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explain to him the way of God more accurately,’ Acts 18v26.

Secondly, they were always together in marriage and ministry. The Bible queries how can two work together unless they agree? Amos 3:3. Together, they opened their homes to travelling preachers, and sinners and saints alike shared in their generosity.

Also, they shared intellectual intimacy by instructing Apollos together. Can we practise such with our husbands and wives, today, for the sake of the ministry?

Thirdly, they put the Lord first in all things. They were tent makers, yet they used their resources to bless people in their homes because they welcomed the idea that God should be first in all things even in something that may be regarded as common like looking after people. I’m sure they must have read in I John 4:20 where it was said: ‘how can I love God and hate my neighbour.’ Therefore, their houses became a Church – extension of God’s care and love. No matter the nature of our work, let us learn to put God first.

However, there is every need for ministers to ensure that their wives are updated. The world we live now is a competitive one and no one should be encouraged to take the back seat. It is true that sometimes, out of fear, some men would not want their wives to be updated. But at the end of the day, they still stand to gain, if they assist them to come up. A little patience, a little encouragement and something good definitely will come out of it. We are doing so because we are partners and labourers together in the work of the Lord. Testimonies abound of some men that assisted their wives to be what they are today and vice versa. You must make up your mind on what to do in order to help your wife to better assist you, as you do ministry work.

It is to be noted that God does not make mistakes; He knows that two will be better than one. He gave you your wife to help complement you, particularly in the ministry. Those that are humble will benefit immensely from such, but the arrogant or proud would find themselves along the line making a mess of themselves and their ministry. Such people may suffer incessant transfers, demotion, lack of promotion and naturally finding ministry very boring. We need to take a cue from the perfect couple, Priscilla and Aquilla, who not only laboured together, but also complemented each other to the glory of God. We, therefore, pray that God in His wisdom will enable us toe their line for His glory. May the Holy Spirit be our guide!

VEN. ERNEST ONUOHA
Rector, Ibru International Ecumenical Centre, Agbarha-Otor,
Delta State.
www.ibrucentre.org