Paul’s Occupation

Paul’s Occupation

Q: Paul, Aquila, and Priscilla all had the same occupation. What was it?

• a. doctor
• b. fisherman
• c. tentmaker

When Paul grew up, all the young Jewish boys were taught a trade, and Paul learned to make tents. Paul learned how to cut and sew rough goat hair cloth, other cloth, or leather into tents. Because Paul was a tentmaker, he could take his supplies with him and work wherever he went on his missionary journeys. When Paul visited Corinth, he stayed with Aquila and Priscilla, who were also tentmakers. Because of their skill, they could support themselves while they did God’s work.

Paul, Aquila, and Priscilla didn’t want to burden others with their needs while they served the Lord, so they continued their trade of tent making. They worked hard and were proud of their tents. It was an honorable way to support themselves instead of expecting the new churches they founded to support them.

There is nothing wrong with getting church support for missionary work, but Paul didn’t want to depend on it. In his letter to the Thessalonians Paul said, “We never accepted food from anyone without paying for it. We worked hard day and night so we would not be a burden to any of you” (2 Thessalonians 3:8). He was setting an example of hard work for other believers in supporting himself and in taking the gospel to other countries.

For You

In Romans 12:11 Paul wrote, “Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically.” What do you need to work hard at today? School assignments or projects? Chores? Practicing a sports skill or music piece? Follow Paul’s advice and be a hard worker.

Answer: c

Paul lived and worked with [Aquila and Priscilla], for they were tentmakers just as he was.   Acts 18:3

(The Whole Story: Acts 18:1-3)