Fr (Dr) Augustine Kanachikuzhy SSP
From Athens, Paul traveled to Corinth, probably around AD 51. There he met Aquila and Priscilla, Jewish Christians who had been expelled from Rome when Emperor Claudius ordered all Jews to leave the city in AD 49 (cf. 1Cor 16,19; Rom 16,3). They became Paul’s close collaborators (Acts 18,26). Paul initially lived with them, since they shared the same trade. The Greek word skēnopoios is debated, but it likely means “tentmaker” or “weaver of tent fabric.” Paul used this trade to support himself financially during his missionary journeys. Though he came from a socially privileged background, Paul willingly engaged in manual labor for the sake of the gospel, ensuring he would not burden the communities he served.
Ministry in Corinth
While in Corinth, Paul preached regularly in the synagogue but also reached out to Gentiles. He was soon joined by Silas and Timothy, who had come from Thessalonica. Opposition from Corinthian Jews forced Paul to shift his focus more directly to Gentiles. He then moved his residence to the home of Titius Justus, located next to the synagogue. Encouraged by a divine vision assuring him of God’s presence and protection, Paul remained in Corinth for eighteen months, longer than in most cities. During this time, he established a strong Christian community.
Trial Before Gallio
Toward the end of his stay, Paul was brought before Lucius Junius Gallio, proconsul of Achaia, accused of promoting unlawful worship. Gallio dismissed the case, viewing Christianity as a branch of Judaism and therefore not subject to Roman legal interference. In frustration, Paul’s opponents attacked Sosthenes, a synagogue leader. This episode illustrates Rome’s early stance toward Christianity: it was treated as part of Judaism, not yet seen as a distinct religion requiring suppression. Gallio’s dismissal thus indirectly protected Paul’s mission.
Collaborators and Divine Assurance
Paul’s time in Corinth highlights the importance of his collaborators—Aquila, Priscilla, Silas, and Timothy—who supported his ministry. Despite opposition, Paul was reassured by the Lord’s words: “I am with you, and there are many of my people in this city” (Acts 18,10). This divine encouragement strengthened him to persevere. Gallio’s refusal to prosecute Paul became a concrete example of God’s providential help.
Conclusion of Second Missionary Journey
Luke concludes Paul’s Second Missionary Journey with his departure from Corinth. Sailing from the port of Cenchreae, Paul was accompanied by Aquila and Priscilla, whom he later left at Ephesus (Acts 18,19). While in Corinth, Paul made a vow, fulfilling it by cutting his hair at Cenchreae (Acts 18,18)—a sign of his devotion and obedience to God. From Ephesus, Paul continued to Caesarea Maritima, then went up to Jerusalem to greet the church, before returning to Antioch (Acts 18,22). He remained there from the winter of AD 52 until the spring of AD 54, preparing for his Third Missionary Journey.
Significance. Collaboration: Aquila, Priscilla, Silas, and Timothy played vital roles in supporting Paul’s mission. Resilience: Despite opposition, Paul remained steadfast, encouraged by divine assurance. Roman context: Gallio’s dismissal of charges shows how early Christianity was initially tolerated under Roman law. Community building: Corinth became one of Paul’s most important mission fields, later addressed in his letters to the Corinthians.
