2 Timothy Chapter 4 · Verse 19

Authorized King James Version

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Salute Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus.

Original Language Analysis

Ἄσπασαι Salute G782
Ἄσπασαι Salute
Strong's: G782
Word #: 1 of 8
to enfold in the arms, i.e., (by implication) to salute, (figuratively) to welcome
Πρίσκαν Prisca G4251
Πρίσκαν Prisca
Strong's: G4251
Word #: 2 of 8
feminine of priscus, ancient; priska, a christian woman
καὶ and G2532
καὶ and
Strong's: G2532
Word #: 3 of 8
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Ἀκύλαν Aquila G207
Ἀκύλαν Aquila
Strong's: G207
Word #: 4 of 8
akulas, an israelite
καὶ and G2532
καὶ and
Strong's: G2532
Word #: 5 of 8
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τὸν G3588
τὸν
Strong's: G3588
Word #: 6 of 8
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Ὀνησιφόρου of Onesiphorus G3683
Ὀνησιφόρου of Onesiphorus
Strong's: G3683
Word #: 7 of 8
profit-bearer; onesiphorus, a christian
οἶκον the household G3624
οἶκον the household
Strong's: G3624
Word #: 8 of 8
a dwelling (more or less extensive, literal or figurative); by implication, a family (more or less related, literally or figuratively)

Analysis & Commentary

Salute Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus. Paul sends greetings to faithful friends. "Prisca and Aquila" (Priskan kai Akylan, Πρίσκαν καὶ Ἀκύλαν)—this couple appears frequently in Paul's ministry (Acts 18:2-3, 18-26; Romans 16:3-4; 1 Corinthians 16:19). Priscilla (Prisca) and Aquila were tentmakers who worked with Paul in Corinth, traveled with him, instructed Apollos in Ephesus, and hosted house churches. They risked their lives for Paul (Romans 16:4). Their mention here suggests they were in or near Ephesus where Timothy served.

"The household of Onesiphorus" (ton Onēsiphorou oikon, τὸν Ὀνησιφόρου οἶκον)—Paul greeted Onesiphorus personally earlier (1:16-18), commending his faithful service. Here he greets the household, possibly because Onesiphorus had died (accounting for past-tense verbs in 1:16-18) or was traveling. Ancient households included family, servants, and associates. Onesiphorus's faithful service extended to his entire household, who continued supporting Paul's ministry.

These greetings reveal Paul's extensive relational network and warm affection for faithful coworkers. Even from prison facing execution, he maintains pastoral concern for individuals, remembering to send personal greetings. Ministry isn't merely preaching but relationships—knowing, loving, and serving people. Paul's example: godly leaders invest in people, remember faithful service, express appreciation, and maintain relationships despite geographic separation. These aren't trivial social niceties but expressions of Christian love and community.

Historical Context

Prisca and Aquila were Jewish Christians expelled from Rome under Claudius (AD 49), relocated to Corinth where they met Paul, then moved to Ephesus, and apparently returned to Rome (Romans 16:3) before returning to Asia. Their mobility and hospitality made them invaluable to Paul's mission. House churches met in their homes wherever they lived. Onesiphorus's household similarly showed consistent faithfulness. These families exemplified Christian hospitality and service. The greetings preserved in Scripture honor their faithfulness across centuries, fulfilling Jesus's promise that acts of service for His sake would be remembered (Matthew 26:13).

Questions for Reflection