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Aquila and Priscilla: Self-supporting Missionaries,
September 29
Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus: who have for my
life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but
also all the churches of the Gentiles.
Romans 16:3, 4
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Paul set an example against the sentiment, then gaining influence in the
church, that the gospel could be proclaimed successfully only by those who
were wholly freed from the necessity of physical toil. He illustrated in a
practical way what might be done by consecrated laymen in many places
where the people were unacquainted with the truths of the gospel. His course
inspired many humble toilers with a desire to do what they could do to
advance the cause of God, while at the same time they supported themselves
in daily labor.
Aquila and Priscilla were not called to give their whole time to the ministry
of the gospel, yet these humble laborers were used by God to show Apollos
the way of truth more perfectly. The Lord employs various instrumentalities
for the accomplishment of His purpose, and while some with special talents
are chosen to devote all their energies to the work of teaching and preaching
the gospel, many others, upon whom human hands have never been laid in
ordination, are called to act an important part in soulsaving.
There is a large field open before the self-supporting gospel worker. Many
may gain valuable experiences in ministry while toiling a portion of the time
at some form of manual labor, and by this method strong workers may be
developed for important service in needy fields.
The self-sacrificing servant of God who labors untiringly in word and
doctrine carries on his heart a heavy burden. He does not measure his work
by hours. His wages do not influence him in his labor, nor is he turned
from his duty because of unfavorable conditions. From heaven he received
his commission, and to heaven he looks for his recompense when the work
entrusted to him is done.—
The Acts of the Apostles, 355, 356
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