The co-labourer of the Servant of Christ

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

Priscilla and Aquila were a couple highly esteemed by the apostle Paul. They had no status in society and were mere labourers, earning their keep in the same trade as dear Paul. Their first meeting was in Acts 18:2 and ever since these two Jewish couples were a very part of the ministry of Paul. Servants of God usually work individually but the Lord sends labourers in the work to support, encourage and build them up. Paul was very thankful for this couple for their involvement and labour in the Lord’s work.

Notice firstly, they were helpers to Paul in his ministry. The word helpers means to co-labour, to work together. This may involve having the same direction, and motivation. Priscilla and Aquila helped and labored with Paul in his ministry with their work. This notable couple gave themselves to work with Paul. Paul calls them his helpers in Christ. They were God-sent helpers to the ministry of Paul. They were a blessing and help to Paul’s work.

Secondly, they were selfless in their ministry. “To lay down the neck is to lay the head on a block to be cut off with the axe” This means they put their lives and exposed themselves to imminent danger, to save the life of Paul. To be willing to be persecuted for a personal cause is noble, but to be willing to suffer on another’s behalf for their cause is selfless. Why were they willing to do this? There is no other reason except that they had to learn to deny themselves, take up their cross and follow Christ. Knowing the will of God on Paul’s life, they gave selflessly, that Paul may continue the work of God and that many may be brought to Christ. Thirdly, their testimony of help encouraged the heart of the servant of God. Paul wrote thanking this couple for the sacrifice they had made for Christ. The Lord Jesus had Lazarus, Mary and Martha, but Paul had Luke and this couple, of course. Others, too, also had groups of Christians who supported them in the work. This made them successful, and Paul was grateful. It is heartening and encouraging to know that there are couples and individuals who have vowed their support for the servant of God. Fourthly, their testimony also edified other brethren. A work for God cannot be hidden. It will be made known and those of the faith will receive encouragement from the deed. The light for God must shine both into hearts of those recipients and to others watching the deed. Are you a helper to the ministry of the servant of God? Are you selfless in the ministry and willing to lay down our lives for the work of God? Are we willing to put the ministry before self and are we an encouragement in our labours for Christ? Are we co-labourers with the servant of God for His glory

Written by: Pastor Johnny Tan Edited by: Timothy Lee Image Credit: Richard, Flickr