New Testament
Acts 18:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Because he was of the same trade, he stayed with them and worked, for they were tentmakers by occupation.
Compare translations
And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers.
What Acts 18:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see Paul, a key figure in the early Christian movement, connecting with others through shared work. He meets Aquila and Priscilla, who are also tentmakers, and decides to stay with them. This choice highlights the importance of community and collaboration in achieving common goals. By working together, they not only support themselves but also create a space for sharing ideas and faith. Paul’s decision to engage in a trade shows that he values hard work and practical skills, which are essential for building relationships. It also emphasizes that faith and work can coexist harmoniously. This moment illustrates how personal connections can lead to greater opportunities for growth and influence. Paul’s life demonstrates that our everyday activities can be a platform for deeper connections and meaningful conversations about life and faith. Through this partnership, they can support each other both materially and spiritually, showcasing the power of unity in purpose and action.
How to apply Acts 18:3 to your life
Consider how your work can connect you with others. Look for opportunities to build relationships in your daily life, whether at work or in your community. Remember that shared experiences can lead to deeper conversations and connections that enrich your life and the lives of others. Embrace the idea that your skills can serve a greater purpose beyond just earning a living. Keep an open heart to the possibilities around you!
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Paul's story: A Year and a Half in Corinth (Acts 18:1–17)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Paul
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Acts 18:3
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Acts 18:3
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 18:3 teach about work and faith?
Acts 18:3 illustrates the connection between work and faith by showing how Paul, Aquila, and Priscilla, all tentmakers, collaborated in their trade. This passage emphasizes that work can be a platform for building relationships and sharing faith. It suggests that engaging in practical skills and hard work can lead to meaningful connections and opportunities for spiritual discussions, highlighting the idea that faith and work can coexist harmoniously.
Who were Aquila and Priscilla in Acts 18:3?
Aquila and Priscilla were a married couple mentioned in Acts 18:3 who shared the same trade as Paul, being tentmakers. They played a significant role in the early Christian movement by providing support and companionship to Paul during his missionary journeys. Their partnership exemplifies the importance of community and collaboration in faith, as they not only worked together but also helped spread the message of Christianity.
How can I apply the lessons from Acts 18:3 in my life?
You can apply the lessons from Acts 18:3 by seeking opportunities to connect with others through your work or shared interests. Look for ways to build relationships in your daily life, whether in your job, volunteer activities, or community engagements. Embrace the idea that your skills and experiences can foster deeper conversations and connections, enriching both your life and the lives of those around you.
What is the significance of tentmaking in Acts 18:3?
Tentmaking in Acts 18:3 signifies the importance of self-sufficiency and the integration of work with ministry. Paul’s choice to work as a tentmaker while spreading the Gospel highlights the value of practical skills and hard work in supporting oneself and others. It also serves as a reminder that vocational work can be a means of building community and sharing faith, demonstrating that everyday activities can lead to spiritual growth and collaboration.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.