The answer is: Tentmaker

Acts 18:3 - it was custom for the Jews to bring all children up in a trade. Tentmaking was Paul's trade.

In Acts 18:3, we find Paul hard at work as a tentmaker, a trade he shared with Aquila. This hands-on profession has quite a fascinating ripple effect throughout Paul's ministry. Imagine Paul stitching up tents while simultaneously stitching together communities of faith! Bringing God’s word to the Gentiles wasn’t just a gallivant across continents; it was often an old-fashioned grind during the day, showcasing the multifaceted nature of apostleship.

Tentmaking was more than a job; it embodied the cultural practice of Jewish tradition where every child learned a trade, ensuring they had something to fall back on. This wasn’t an ancient side-gig; it fostered ties between work and community, underlining the idea that no job falls outside the realm of God’s calling.

Interestingly, the tentmaking trade positions Paul uniquely among the apostles. He's sometimes referred to as the “Apostle to the Gentiles.” By blending his profession with his spiritual mission, he shows us that our jobs can be vehicles for outreach, no matter the industry!

Moreover, in his letters, especially to the Corinthians, he emphasizes the importance of hard work and perseverance, mirroring the diligence he applied in tentmaking. Paul did his work for the sake of self-sufficiency so he wouldn’t be a burden to the churches he served, illustrating his commitment to both his labor and ministry. Such lessons remind us all of the value in our daily grind and faith journey!