1 Corinthians 16:19
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It's easy to overlook the significance of "the church in their house," but this highlights how the earliest Christian communities weren't built in grand buildings, but were intimate gatherings centered around ordinary homes. This intimate context was the very soil where faith was nurtured and deepened, showing us that meaningful community can thrive anywhere love and faith are present.
The churches of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Prisca, together with the church in their house, send you hearty greetings in the Lord.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul is wrapping up his letter to the Corinthians, where he's addressed a bunch of tough issues they've been wrestling with – from divisions and immorality to questions about spiritual gifts and the resurrection. In these closing verses, he shares personal greetings from various people and churches, offering a warm, human touch to his authoritative teaching. This particular verse highlights the sense of community and shared faith that extends even to fellow believers in distant places, like those meeting in Aquila and Prisca's home.
Ever wondered where early Christians gathered to worship? It wasn't in grand cathedrals, but in the most intimate of places – people's homes!
In 1 Corinthians 16:19, Paul mentions 'the church in their house.' This wasn't just a casual meeting; it was the primary model for the church in its infancy.
A Place of Belonging
These 'house churches' were more than just a venue. They were the very fabric of the community. Imagine being welcomed into someone's home, sharing a meal, praying together, and hearing God's Word. It was deeply personal and relational.
Strength in Small Groups
This intimate setting fostered strong bonds and accountability. Leaders like Aquila and Prisca, who were influential and likely hosted the church in their home, played a vital role in nurturing believers. It highlights how vital small, committed groups are for spiritual growth and support.
In a world that can feel disconnected, the simple act of sending 'hearty greetings' carried immense weight. What did this truly mean for the early believers?
Paul records that Aquila and Prisca sent 'hearty greetings in the Lord.' The word 'hearty' here conveys a sense of deep sincerity, warmth, and full enthusiasm. It wasn't a lukewarm or obligatory sign-off.
Rooted in the Lord
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These greetings were not just social niceties; they were 'in the Lord.' This means their affection and well-wishes were grounded in their shared faith in Jesus Christ. Their connection was spiritual, not just personal.
A Vital Spiritual Practice
For believers scattered and often facing persecution, receiving such genuine, Lord-centered greetings was a powerful source of encouragement. It reminded them they were part of a larger, unified body of Christ, loved and supported by fellow believers.
Understand the original words
aspazontai · Greek Verb
The formal expression of goodwill, love, or warm regard toward others; in the New Testament, it represents the bond of unity and peace shared between believers.
Kyriō · Greek Noun
Referring to the status of a person in relation to Christ; the primary sphere of existence for the believer, signifying authority, belonging, and salvation.
This greeting highlights the interconnectedness of early Christian communities across the Roman Empire, with key figures like Aquila and Prisca moving and establishing house churches that became vital centers for fellowship and evangelism.
c. AD 49
Expulsion of Jews from Rome
Emperor Claudius expelled Jews from Rome due to disturbances related to 'Chrestus.' Aquila and Prisca, Jewish Christians, were among those forced to leave.
c. AD 50-52
Ministry in Corinth
Aquila and Prisca settled in Corinth, where they met and worked with the Apostle Paul, sharing his tent-making trade and likely contributing to the founding of the Corinthian church.
c. AD 52-55— this verse
Return to Ephesus
Aquila and Prisca accompanied Paul to Ephesus, a major city in the Roman province of Asia. They established a church in their home there.
c. AD 55
Paul's Letter to the Corinthians
Paul writes 1 Corinthians from Ephesus, where he has been ministering for some time. The greeting from Aquila and Prisca and the churches of Asia reflects their presence and ministry in the region.
c. AD 57
Paul's Second Letter to the Corinthians
Paul writes his second letter to the Corinthians, likely from Macedonia. He again mentions his previous ministry with Aquila and Prisca in Ephesus.
c. AD 64
Aquila and Prisca in Rome
By the time Paul writes to the Romans, Aquila and Prisca have returned to Rome and again host a church in their home.
This passage also highlights the significance of a couple, Priscilla and Aquila, who are mentioned as Paul's co-workers and whose house served as a meeting place for the church.
Acts 18:2-3This passage introduces Aquila and Priscilla, explaining their background as tentmakers and their connection to Paul's ministry in Corinth, providing context for their later role in the church.
Colossians 4:15Similar to 1 Corinthians 16:19, this verse includes greetings from specific individuals and a house church, emphasizing the personal and communal nature of early Christian fellowship.
Philemon 1:2This letter also mentions greetings from a specific individual, Apphia, and a house church (Philemon's household), underscoring the importance of personal relationships and gatherings within the early church.
It's easy to overlook the significance of "the church in their house," but this highlights how the earliest Christian communities weren't built in grand buildings, but were intimate gatherings centered around ordinary homes. This intimate context was the very soil where faith was nurtured and deepened, showing us that meaningful community can thrive anywhere love and faith are present.
Paul is wrapping up his letter to the Corinthians, where he's addressed a bunch of tough issues they've been wrestling with – from divisions and immorality to questions about spiritual gifts and the resurrection. In these closing verses, he shares personal greetings from various people and churches, offering a warm, human touch to his authoritative teaching. This particular verse highlights the sense of community and shared faith that extends even to fellow believers in distant places, like those meeting in Aquila and Prisca's home.
Paul is wrapping up his letter to the Corinthians, where he's addressed a bunch of tough issues they've been wrestling with – from divisions and immorality to questions about spiritual gifts and the resurrection. In these closing verses, he shares personal greetings from various people and churches, offering a warm, human touch to his authoritative teaching. This particular verse highlights the sense of community and shared faith that extends even to fellow believers in distant places, like those meeting in Aquila and Prisca's home.
"The churches of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Prisca, together with the church in their house, send you hearty greetings in the Lord." — It's easy to overlook the significance of "the church in their house," but this highlights how the earliest Christian communities weren't built in grand buildings, but were intimate gatherings center…
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Last reviewed October 2026
