While a few leaders gain splash and attention in any successful organization, it’s the behind the scenes, quiet and effective workers that move the cause forward. I know many in this category who teach children, hold training seminars at the end of long days, pay bills, or carry out the trash. We all benefit from their selfless service.

Paul met a couple like this in Corinth. Aquila, along with his wife Priscilla (they are always mentioned together), made a living as tentmakers. Paul worked with them while he spent his Sabbath days in the synagogue reasoning about the faith. Aquila and Priscilla made sure Paul’s needs were met, allowing him to advance the faith without worry for food or a place to sleep.

In those long days of sewing, Paul’s theology rubbed off on his fellow tentmakers. Eighteen months later they all moved to Ephesus, where Pricilla and Aquila remained when Paul continued on his journeys. Later another teacher arrived who spoke with great fervor and taught about Jesus. Yet this new teacher, Apollos, lacked the depth of knowledge carried by Paul and the apostles.

Enter Priscilla and Aquila.

When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately.

Aquila and Priscilla welcomed Apollos into their house and molded a young man with fervor and gifts into a powerful communicator of the gospel—an echo of the way they created a haven for Paul’s ministry to flourish.

Two of the greatest gospel preachers in the early church benefited from the hospitality and wisdom of this faithful couple. You and I also benefit every time we open our New Testaments. How many, many more served quietly over the years in ways we benefit from but will never know? Of course, many of us serve in such ways today. Thank you for all you do.

So it encourages me to take heart and remember—quietly effective men and women change the world.

Acts 18 in reading the Bible cover to cover in 2022

Photo by Cindy Chen