Priscilla, also referred to as Prisca, is introduced in Acts 18:2, where Paul meets her and her husband Aquila in Corinth. Scripture says,
“And he found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla…”
They had been expelled from Rome under the decree of Claudius and made their livelihood as tentmakers, which is how Paul came to live and work with them. She is always mentioned alongside her husband, but strikingly, her name is often listed first (Acts 18:18, Romans 16:3, 2 Timothy 4:19), which in Greek writing was uncommon and typically indicated prominence or influence.
Priscilla and Aquila eventually moved to Ephesus (Acts 18:18-19), where they hosted a church in their home (1 Corinthians 16:19), supported missionary work, and provided a foundation for teaching truth in love.
Correcting False Doctrine
One of the most significant moments in Priscilla’s ministry is found in Acts 18:24-26:
“Now a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus… he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately.”
Here, a woman, alongside her husband, teaches a man “mighty in the Scriptures” to better understand the truth. Priscilla didn’t preach in public or usurp authority over men (1 Timothy 2:12), but she participated in privately correcting and instructing, all within the order and humility God commands.
This moment reveals a powerful truth: God can use women to bring clarity, correction, and depth in the Word—within the biblical boundaries He’s set. Priscilla’s influence was not rebellious; it was reverent.
A Pattern of Honor and Ministry
Romans 16:3-4 shows Paul’s great respect for Priscilla and Aquila:
“Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their own necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles.”
They were more than friends—they were co-laborers. She was a worker for the gospel, honored by Paul, loved by the churches, and instrumental in the early Christian movement.
God’s Design and Priscilla’s Example
God is not confused about gender. He has given clear roles for men and women in the home and the church. Yet, those distinctions never diminish value. From Genesis to Revelation, women were used mightily—Deborah, Hannah, Esther, Mary, Phoebe, and yes, Priscilla.
Priscilla’s life teaches that women can be knowledgeable in the Scriptures, effective in ministry, bold in hospitality, and faithful in service—all without stepping outside God’s design. She didn’t need a pulpit to be powerful. She didn’t need a title to be effective. She simply needed a heart yielded to God and hands ready to serve.
My Final Thoughts
Priscilla stands as a reminder that God uses both men and women to build His kingdom. Her life was a beautiful harmony of submission and strength, doctrine and discipleship, service and soundness. She worked alongside her husband, honored God’s order, and still shaped the theology of one of the greatest preachers in the early church. That is not lesser value—it is divine purpose.
Let us celebrate God’s design for men and women, and at the same time, never underestimate how powerfully He works through those willing to serve Him in truth.
