King James Version

What Does 2 Timothy 4:19 Mean?

2 Timothy 4:19 in the King James Version says “Salute Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus.” — study this verse from 2 Timothy chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Salute Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus.”

2 Timothy 4:19 · KJV

Context

17

Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.

18

And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

19

Salute Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus.

20

Erastus abode at Corinth: but Trophimus have I left at Miletum sick.

21

Do thy diligence to come before winter. Eubulus greeteth thee, and Pudens, and Linus, and Claudia, and all the brethren.

Read 2 Timothy 4 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study 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.

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Historical & Cultural 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).

Reflection Questions

  1. Who are the faithful coworkers, supporters, and friends you should greet, thank, and express appreciation to?
  2. How can you and your household, like Aquila, Prisca, and Onesiphorus, serve God's people and advance gospel ministry?
  3. Do you maintain warm personal relationships in ministry or become so task-focused that you neglect expressing love and appreciation to people?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 8 words
Ἄσπασαι1 of 8

“Salute”

G782

to enfold in the arms, i.e., (by implication) to salute, (figuratively) to welcome

Πρίσκαν2 of 8

“Prisca”

G4251

feminine of priscus, ancient; priska, a christian woman

καὶ3 of 8

“and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

Ἀκύλαν4 of 8

“Aquila”

G207

akulas, an israelite

καὶ5 of 8

“and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

τὸν6 of 8
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

Ὀνησιφόρου7 of 8

“of Onesiphorus”

G3683

profit-bearer; onesiphorus, a christian

οἶκον8 of 8

“the household”

G3624

a dwelling (more or less extensive, literal or figurative); by implication, a family (more or less related, literally or figuratively)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Timothy. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Timothy 4:19 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 2 Timothy 4:19 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Acts 18:21 Corinthians 16:19Romans 16:3-42 Timothy 1:16-18Acts 18:26Acts 18:18

Test Your Knowledge

2 Timothy 4 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Timothy Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read 2 Timothy 4 with CommentaryAll 2 Timothy ChaptersComplete 2 Timothy QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes