Acts 19

Acts 19

Paul at Ephesus

And it happened (on Paul’s third missionary journey), while Apollos was at Corinth, that Paul, having passed through the upper regions (of Asia Minor), came to Ephesus (where the traffic of the sea met the traffic of the land, had been the leading commercial center in the province of Asia^[1]).

• Situated … three miles inland from the Aegean Sea,
  • Ephesus was a crossroad for the coastal highway that went from north to south and the highway that stretched east to Laodicea and to the region of Phrygia (Pisidian Antioch).
• In earlier centuries, Ephesus, where the traffic of the sea met the traffic of the land, had been the leading commercial center in the province of Asia.
  • But in Paul’s day, the harbor of Ephesus was so clogged with silt that ships had difficulty docking there and were forced to go elsewhere.
• Although its silted harbor caused the city’s inevitable decline in commercial influence, Ephesus had nonetheless surpassed Pergamum in significance when the Romans made it the provincial capital of Asia (western Turkey) toward the end of the first century b.c.
  • In the middle of the first century a.d. the city may have had more than two hundred thousand inhabitants;
  • archaeological excavations have unearthed the ancient theater, which seated an estimated twenty-four thousand people.
  • Of greater significance was the temple of the goddess Artemis.
  • The temple, which was the largest known building of that time and ranked among the seven wonders of the ancient world, drew crowds of worshipers to Ephesus.
  • And here a flourishing business had been developed by silversmiths who fashioned silver shrines and images of Artemis.^[2]

And finding (there) some disciples (some say they were not gospel believers yet and some say they were) ² he (Paul) said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” (“when you believed,” there is no question that they believed in something or someone: [1] One view is that Paul is trying to verify their profession of faith as it was common for the Holy Spirit to manifest Himself in some visual way in the infant stages of the church. Also, we are told in Romans 8:16 that the Holy Spirit bears witness of our genuine faith.[3] [2] Another view is that Paul was just “curious” if the Holy Spirit had manifested Himself in some way.)

So they (the disciples) said to him, “We have not so much as heard whether there is a Holy Spirit.” (Although John the Baptist taught about the Holy Spirit, their not knowing about the Holy Spirit would still be rare with all the Holy Spirit’s visible and verified activity during this time. We must also remember though, that the Holy Spirit’s presence was absent in the lives of some other believers at this time of transition from the old covenant of the Law, to the new covenant of grace, [Acts 8:9, 14-17]).[4]

³ And he (Paul, further exploring the situation) said to them, “Into (or unto) what then were you baptized?” (Probably, signifying some red flags that needed clarification.)

So they said, “Into John’s (John the Baptist’s) baptism.” (The baptism of repentance, looking forward to the Messiah’s coming. This was all that Apollo’s had experienced as well, and he was a genuine believer, [Acts 18:25]).

⁴ Then Paul said (concerning John’s preparatory work), “John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance (calling upon people to turn from their sin in order to live in accordance to God’s Word and will), saying to the people that they should believe on (the mediatorial work of) Him (the Messiah) who would come after (follow) him (John), that is, on Christ Jesus.” (God the Son)

⁵ When they (the disciples) heard this, they (had no resistance to it and) were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus (realizing the purpose and fulfillment of John’s baptism, possibly being saved at this point or affirming there previous profession of faith, although with more complete understanding—Absolutely affirming their sincerity either way). ⁶ And when Paul (with his apostolic authority) had laid hands on them (affirming them personally and confirming them to all as genuine gospel believers), the Holy Spirit came upon them, and (affirming and confirming them as well) they spoke with tongues and prophesied. (This experience would be a tremendous asset in Christ building His church in Ephesus, taking any question out as to whether these men Christ followers.  NOTE: This is not a second work of grace, or second blessing, or absolutely necessary signs affirming ones salvation.  In fact, this is the last time in the Book of Acts that speaking in tongues takes place.) ⁷ Now the men (these disciples) were about twelve in all.

Paul had been ministering in Corinth and then began to make his way back to Antioch, stopping briefly at Ephesus.  When he got back he gave a report to his local church at Antioch and then head to Jerusalem to fulfill a vow.   

It wasn’t long before Paul headed out on a third missionary journey.  He revisits some churches he’s planted, as well as heads for new areas to plant churches, Ephesus being one.

1. Tell me some of the experiences Paul and the evangelistic team had on the first two missionary journeys.
   1. a. First start with his experiences with the non-gospel believers.
      1. i. Begged to stay and tell them more
      1. ii. Some get saved
      1. iii. Worshiped as gods
      1. iv. Hunted down and persecuted by the Judaizers
      1. v. Stoned, imprisoned, whipped, chained, laughed at, insulted, threatened
   1. b. Now his experiences with the gospel believers.
      1. i. Befriended by Barnabas
      1. ii. Let down by John Mark
      1. iii. Provided room and shelter
      1. iv. Wrestled with those still attached to Judaism
      1. v. Would have given him their own eyes if they could
      1. vi. Betrayed by them

• 2. What do these experiences tell us about Paul’s person, worldview and/or faith?
• 3. What can we take away from this into our week?
• 4. What can we learn from Paul’s approach to professing believers?
  • a. It’s ok to ask questions.
  • b. We ought not to be threatened by others asking us about how we were saved.
  • c. He didn’t assume anything one way or the other
  • d. He responded with truth
  • e. Sincerity leads to a win win situation

⁸ And (following his time with the disciples of Christ Paul found) he went into the synagogue (where he was welcomed on his first visit while returning to Israel at the end of his second missionary journey.  They asked him to spend more time with them, but he couldn’t and said he would try to return.) and (now having returned, Paul) spoke boldly (meaning, frankly with confidence and freedom) for three months (the longest time ever with the possible exception of Corinth), reasoning (this is the word we get our word dialog from; Paul was dialoging with them, he responded to their questions and challenges) and persuading (providing truth in persuasive, convincing ways; here Paul would be asking them questions) concerning the things of the kingdom of God (which involved [1] God’s provision to bring sinful man into right relationship to Himself, [2] His warning that all demons and those who die in their sin will suffer eternal judgment, and [3] His promise to restore the broken world and universe.)

Why should we ask questions?

1. Asking Questions forces people to open up within their general assumptions. 

(Luke 18:18 the rich young ruler assumed that he could get to heaven by doing his best at keeping the commandments.  Jesus told him to go and sell all that he had and give his riches to the poor, then come and follow Him.  Jesus knew that the rich young ruler assumed he could get to heaven by being good.)

The rich young ruler had no identity, he is only called the rich young ruler.  His whole life was defined by his riches!  How sad is that!!

• He’s in the same condition of the rich man who died when Lazarus died, but Lazarus’ name was used and he was defined by his faith.
• There’s a saying that “In life we’re not made happy by what we acquire, but by what we appreciate.”  It’s true isn’t it.

• 2. Asking questions forces people to open up within cultural assumptions.

In Matthew 22:15 Jesus was asked if it was right to pay Ceaser takes or not.  Jesus asked them whose image was on the coin.  They He says to render unto Ceaser that which is Ceasers.

• Jesus forces them to open up within their cultural assumption that paying taxes to Ceaser makes one unholy.
• 3. Asking questions exposes faulty logic.

In Matthew 22:23-33 the Sadducees ask Jesus one of these faulty logic questions.  They talk about a woman who had 7 husbands who died one after another.  (I think I’d start eating out if I was going to be number 8)  Anyway, they said there can’t be a resurrection because whose wife would she be if there was!? 

• Jesus exposed the fault in their question by causing them to question their own question.  Jesus informed them that the relationships they were speaking of are only functional in this earthly life, not in the heavenly life. 

• 4. Asking questions exposes motives

In Matthew 21:12-17, after Jesus cleared the Temple, the chief priests asked Him, “By whose authority are you doing these things?” 

Jesus answered by asking them where the authority of John the Baptist had come from, from heaven or from man.  They knew if they said from man that the people would hate them and if they said from heaven, they’d ask why we didn’t believe Him then.  So, they wouldn’t answer Jesus.

• Jesus exposed the fact that they weren’t looking for answers, they were looking for a way to accuse Him.  So Jesus replied, “Neither will I answer you then.”

• 5. Asking questions exposes contradictions.

In Matthew 22:41-46 Jesus asks “Whose son is the Christ?” “The Son, the lineage of David,” they answer.  Then Jesus shows the contradiction in their thinking.

Then why does David call the Christ His Lord, Master then?!  The Christ, Savior, Messiah must be more than simply human then. 

What happens today when you catch people in a contradiction, is they say, “There is no truth.”   Really, when was the last time you jumped out of a plane or a moving vehicle?  Or, my favorite, “That means money has no real value, how about giving me all of yours.”

• Roger Scruton has pointed out that when people say there is no such thing as truth, they are effectively asking you not to believe them.  So don’t.

The Pharisees were even willing to accept contradictions, in order to avoid Christ, and Jesus called them on it.

• The problem today isn’t that we don’t have anything to be grateful for, but that we have no on to be grateful to!  It’s a most beautiful and experiential thing when one reciprocates your love.  When we reciprocate God’s love, we worship.  The Pharisees wanted nothing to do with it.

• 6. Asking questions insures a conversation.

People don’t like to be “talked at”, but “talked with.”  Jesus spent a lot of time talking “with” people.  (Sunday School)

• 7. The best is last.  Asking questions makes people think.

If there is no thinking going on in a debate, what good is the debate?

The difference between an argument and a discussion is that a discussion makes people think.

• Here’s a great question to get people thinking.  Everyone is willing to talk about the evil going on in the world today.  During your conversation with them, ask them this question.  “I know there is a lot of evil out there, but what about the evil in us?”

Acts 19:1–7 (NKJV)

⁸ And (following his time with the disciples of Christ Paul found) he went into the synagogue and spoke boldly (meaning, frankly with confidence and freedom) for three months reasoning (dialoging with them, responding to their questions and challenges) and persuading (providing truth in persuasive, convincing ways; asking them questions) concerning the things of the kingdom of God (which involved [1] God’s provision to bring sinful man into right relationship to Himself, [2] His warning that all demons and those who die in their sin will suffer eternal judgment, and [3] His promise to restore the broken world and universe.)

⁹ But (eventually, at or near the end of the 3 months) when some (some in the synagogue) were hardened (were hardened here is in the sense that they {during the 3 months} they became progressively hardened to Paul’s reasoning and persuading—one commentator said “the heart towards the gospel turned to gristle”) (But when some were hardened) and did not believe (on the good news of Christ), but (they didn’t only choose not to confess and repent of their sin, they also) spoke evil of (reviled, slandered) the Way (a name gospel believers were called then—they spoke evil of the Way) before the multitude (they started a smear campaign among their synagogue colleagues),

This is so typical of today.  Many people don’t just choose to reject God’s offer of having a relationship with Him and a new quality of life through, Him—they also begin their own smear campaigns against His gracious and merciful good news. 

• Separation of church and state
• ACLU
• Businesses not being able to serve according to their conscience
• Christianity has no business in our judges we are told because we are bias (and they are bias free?!)

⁹But when some were hardened and did not believe but spoke evil of the Way before the multitude he (Paul, at that point) departed from them (from teaching at the synagogue—Why? Don’t cast pearls to swine) and withdrew the disciples (those who had professed salvation in Christ with him), reasoning (dialoging) daily (now) in the school of Tyrannus (of whom we know nothing about.  His name means tyrant, which could have been a nickname his students gave him. Paul also taught from house to house, [20:20]).

Paul’s ministry was the In Touch ministries, The Daily Bread, A Word for Today, etc., of the day.  “Come hear daily readings with the Apostle Paul. Stop by the school of Tyrannus and Join him!  Or better yet invite him and your friends to your house as Paul makes house calls!”

¹⁰ And this continued for two years (that’s 730 days of classes if they met daily), so (prevalent, inspiring and sought-after was Paul’s reasoning and persuasion) that all who dwelt in Asia (Minor) heard (i.e., became familiar with) the word of the Lord Jesus (His Person and kingdom), both Jews and Greeks. (During this time the churches of Colossae, Hierapolis and the seven churches mentioned in Revelation 1:11, Ephesus, to Smyrna, to Pergamos, to Thyatira, to Sardis, to Philadelphia, and to Laodicea were planted.  The Word of God was finding a lot of fertile ground.)

Miracles Glorify Christ

¹¹ Now (not Paul, but) God worked (performed not just some supernatural miracles but) unusual (extraordinary) miracles (a miracle defined as that which defies the laws of nature) by the hands of (God’s willing, devoted and humble servant) Paul, ¹² so that even (Paul’s) handkerchiefs (possibly sweat bands) or (work) aprons were brought from his body (articles that Paul used in his work which he allowed people to take) to the sick (with colds, flus, etc.), and the diseases (like leprosy—and they) left them and (even) the evil spirits (demonic afflicters) went out of them (left their bodies and minds).

Although these unusual miracles connected with Paul’s clothing were rare, they weren’t unprecedented.  For example, you have

• Balaam’s donkey admonishing him in Judges Number 22:28;
• a woman being healed by touching the hem of Jesus’ robe in Mark 5:29, and
• people healed as they fell under Peter’s shadow in Acts 5:15.

What else could God have used to work His miracles?  (Anything else)

The inclusion of “evil spirits” leaving them in addition to sickness and diseases, is huge.  Many even attributed sickness and disease to demonic oppression.  How many even today attribute a lot of sickness to sin?

The phrase “by the hands of Paul” [the scholar Lenski] states that these handkerchiefs and these aprons were sent by Paul himself; they were not taken [secretly], and hence were not used superstitiously. Paul would be the last person to encourage superstition.^[5]

Another matter concerning God working any kind of miracles, but especially in Ephesus, could possibly be due to the tremendous amount of superstition and demonic magic going on.  We see that in magnifying the name of Jesus Christ above and beyond the norm, many of these demons worshipers changed to the one and true God in, verses 17-20. 

¹⁷ This became known both to all Jews and Greeks dwelling in Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified. ¹⁸ And many who had believed came confessing and telling their deeds. ¹⁹ Also, many of those who had practiced magic brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all. And they counted up the value of them, and it totaled fifty thousand pieces of silver. ²⁰ So the word of the Lord grew mightily and prevailed.

¹³ Then some of the itinerant (wandering, traveling, roaming) Jewish exorcists^[6] (those who used prescribed oaths as spells and charms—which Ephesus was full of these so-called magical scrolls these men) took it upon themselves to call (upon) the name of the Lord Jesus (having heard Paul use the Lord’s name, seeing the results and thinking it some sort of new incantation, they called upon the name of the Lord Jesus) over those who had evil spirits, saying, “We exorcise you (demand you leave this person) by the Jesus whom Paul preaches.” (It’s obvious that they had no relationship with this Jesus, but they knew Paul did.) ¹⁴ Also there were seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, who did so. (There is nothing known of this chief priest or his sons.)

¹⁵ And the evil spirit answered (through his victim) and said, “Jesus I know, (who He is) and Paul I know; but who are you?” (These itinerate exorcists could fool the Ephesians with their so-called power and authority, but these demons weren’t taking orders from just anyone.  They recognized no seal of the Holy Spirit upon them.  They were merely fallen humans and completely on their own.  Would they recognize you or me?)

¹⁶ Then the man in whom the evil spirit was (without warning) leaped on them (attacked them), overpowered them (exercised mastery over them), and (thus) prevailed against them (rather than vice versa), so (much so) that they fled out of that house naked and wounded (disgraced and striped of their former prominence).

God is not a God of confusion, but the demonic host is.  The demons had provided supernatural powers to these men previous to this point, but now this demon turns on them.  Why?  Because of the name of Jesus; even when unbelievers evoke the name of Jesus for some purpose, the demons respond violently to it.  They hate Jesus and everything about Him.

We see in this passage as well that demonic forces can provide some pretty incredible things like superhuman strength to the possessed man and mystical abilities to the men being attacked.  But they come with many strings attached which leads to a “BIG” price tag.

You mess around in the demonic realm, and things can violently turn on you in an instant.

The most important lesson we can learn from this passage is that the demon did not deny the power of Jesus’ over him, only those who were trying to claim the name of Jesus over them.

James 2:19 – You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble!

There is power in the name of Jesus, but Jesus doesn’t allow it to be used by just anyone nor for just any reason. 

• Mark 16:17a – And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; (but its not only those who believe as it is…)
• The prayer of a righteous individual avails much, (James 5:16) (and even then…)
• Some don’t come out with much prayer and fasting, (Mark 9:29)

If Jesus’ name is so powerful and strikes tremendous fear in the hearts of demons, why all this extra stuff then before Jesus releases the power of His name?

His name like His Person, demands the utmost respect.

That is why one, only authorized individuals will be able to effectively call upon the power and authority of the name of Jesus, but even then, only those gospel believers who are handling it respectfully.

God doesn’t need to answer our prayers.  Not answering our prayers isn’t going to change God’s will concerning His kingdom work at all.  God uses us because He chooses too, not because He needs to.  So when we don’t treat the name and Person of Jesus Christ with respect, we are the only losers, not God.

 ¹⁷ This (demonic event) became known (public) both to all Jews and Greeks dwelling in Ephesus; and (the result of it was that) fear (severe distress, an intense concern of impending danger) fell on them all (not because of the thrashing the men took, but because of the revelation of the power and authority of Jesus’ name), and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified (held in special respect, given utmost honor).

It certainly wasn’t used as a curse word.

Where are some other places we find this kind of fear?

This fear is similar to the time when Ananias and Sapphira disrespected God the Holy Spirit. 

• Belshazzar – finger of God
• 10 plauges of Egypt
• Goliath (OPPOSITE)

Acts 5:11 – Great fear came upon all the church and upon all who heard these things.

The name of Jesus put electricity in the air.  People’s senses would jolt to full alert.  Jesus’ name was like handling nitroglycerin, you didn’t play with it.  You treated it with the utmost respect.

 ¹⁸ And many who had (prior to this event) believed (placed saving faith in Christ) came (day after day, as a result of the event) confessing and telling their deeds (came confessing that they had continued to dabble in spiritism, but now seeing their error and the power of Jesus to do something about it, they repent of it). ¹⁹ Also, many of those (who had believed and) who had practiced magic brought their books (little papyrus rolls that were inscribed with magical formulas and symbols^[7] — they brought them) together and (didn’t try to resell them, but) burned them (publicly) in the sight of all. (They weren’t only telling Jesus they were done with magic, they were also telling the world—even the demon world). And they counted up the value of them, and it totaled fifty thousand pieces of silver, (about 150 men’s total salary for the whole year).

• They realized the futility of trying to hide something from the Lord.  (It’s impossible to do as God even knows out thoughts.)
• They realized the impotence of pagan magic.  (What else?  Power, money, etc.)
• They realized the shocking power and authority of Jesus and His name. (How thoughtlessly, freely do we throw Jesus’ name around?)

 ²⁰ So the word of the Lord grew mightily (grew tremendously numerically in new converts) and prevailed (effectively filled the hearts of the converts).

Elevate the name of Jesus and the Word of the Lord grows and penetrates deeper into the world around us.

The Riot at Ephesus

²¹ When these things (Paul’s 3 years of serving in Ephesus) were accomplished (completed), Paul purposed (which means here “to set or plant something” thus these plans were rooted) in the (Holy) Spirit, (at the time) when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem,

His purpose for going to Jerusalem was [1] to attend the Pentecost celebrations (20:16), [2] to deliver financial gifts for the poor (Rom. 15:26–27; 1 Cor. 16:1–3; 2 Cor. 8:1–9), and [3] to report to James and the elders (Acts 21:18–19).^[8]

^21b saying, “After I have been there (at Jerusalem), I must (“must”, signifying another divine direction) also see (go to) Rome.”

Paul is not a tourist but an ambassador of Jesus Christ…  Paul knew that the Roman Christians had a flourishing church, so that his purpose for going to Rome was to strengthen the believers in their faith (Rom. 1:11–12). He set his sights still further and planned to go to Spain (Rom. 15:24, 28).^[9]

²² So (with this in mind) he sent into Macedonia two of those who ministered to him (during part of his time in Ephesus), Timothy (who had been ministering at Corinth, [18:5]) and Erastus, (who we don’t have information about—but Paul presumably sent them to Philippi and Thessalonica) but (because of the rising problems at the Corinthian church [2 Cor. 2:13; 7:6, 13; 8:6, 16–18, 23; 12:18]) he himself stayed in Asia (Ephesus) for a time (Paul had a few reasons for doing this: [1] he waited for word from Titus, who he sent to address the situation at Corinth and he also wrote some letters while he waited, First Corinthians being one of them, and [2] “I will tarry in Ephesus until Pentecost. For a great and effective door has opened to me, and there are many adversaries,”                         1 Corinthians 16:8–9.)

²³ And about that time (while he tarried at Ephesus) there arose a great commotion (tumult, disturbance) about the Way (a name for gospel believers at the time, probably derived from John 14:6, “the way, the truth and the life”).

²⁴ For a certain man named Demetrius (who the demons could control), a silversmith, who made silver shrines of Diana (Artemis), brought no small profit (but a lucrative one) to the craftsmen (who he contracted some of the work out to).

The temple of Artemis [the goddess of fertility] attracted worshipers who, before returning to their homes, bought small shrines and images depicting Artemis.^[10] The worship of the goddess Artemis was widespread throughout the Roman Empire. There appears to have been at least thirty-three shrines to Artemis throughout the Roman Empire, making it perhaps the most popular cult of all. Ephesus, site of the impressive Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), was the center of Artemis worship. Pilgrims flocked to the city, especially during the annual festival to Artemis held each spring. The trade generated by this influx of pilgrims was an essential part of the Ephesian economy. It is likely that the riot described in this passage took place during that festival, at the peak season for the sale of the paraphernalia of Artemis.^[11]

 ²⁵ He called them (his subcontractors) together with the workers of similar occupation (anyone else involved in the idol trade), and said (putting the most important issue first): “Men, you know that we have our prosperity (our wealth) by this (shrine) trade.

²⁶ Moreover (another noteworthy problem is) you (yourselves) see (for yourselves) and hear (others mention) that not only (here) at Ephesus, but throughout almost all Asia, this Paul (this right-winged, fundamental, extremist) has persuaded and turned away (lit. “seduced”) many people (translation, “many of our former customers”), saying (to them) that they (the gods we create) are not gods which are made with (our) hands.

The gospel of Jesus Christ is obviously devastating the idol trade, and is threatening to drive it to bankruptcy!

What caused the success of the gospel in Ephesus?

[1] First, the powerful presence and diligent, relentless labor of one man totally committed to Jesus Christ. Paul was an example of the influence one man can have on a city, province, state, or nation. The key to his influence was not a charismatic personality, a clever marketing strategy, or political influence. In his farewell speech to the elders of the Ephesian church [in Acts 20:27, 31], Paul reminded them, “I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God… ^[31] night and day for a period of three years I did not cease to admonish each one with tears” (Acts 20:27, 31). Paul’s influence flowed from his devotion to his Lord and to the Word of truth.  [That’s where we need to strive to be, PERSONALLY.]

[2] A second factor in the gospel’s success was a purged church. Acts 19:18–19 records that

many also of those who had believed [at Ephesus] kept coming, confessing and disclosing their practices. And many of those who practiced magic brought their books together and began burning them in the sight of all; and they counted up the price of them and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver.

Because of the purging, the church was clean and “the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing” (19:20).  [That’s where we need to strive to be, COLLECTIVELY.]

[3] A third reason for the success of the gospel was the church’s use of proper spiritual means. The Ephesian believers did not lobby the city authorities, picket the silversmiths’ shops, or organize demonstrations against Artemis worship. They did not try to be popular. They preached and lived out the message and let the power of their changed lives confront and push out the old ways.^[12]  [They strove to “BE” Christ.]

²⁷ So (as a result) not only is this trade of ours in danger of falling into disrepute (contempt, serious public criticism—again their self-interest first—This is really not a theological issue, but a personal one), but also (in an addition to “our” problem) the temple of the great goddess Diana may (as a result of Paul’s teaching and proselytizing) be despised (reckoned as worthless) and her magnificence (then) destroyed (Artemis would be dethroned, lose all her luster and attraction), whom all Asia and the (Roman) world (for the moment still) worship.”

How typical of a depraved [non-spiritual] mind to focus on [self-serving] materialism when eternal souls are at stake! The Lord Jesus Christ exposed the folly of that type of thinking when He asked, “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul? For what shall a man give in exchange for his soul” (Mark 8:36–37)? [Sadly] Hell will be filled with people who, like Judas, loved money more than God.^[13]  [The alternative to not “being” Christ.]

Wherever the Gospel is preached in power, it will be opposed by people who make money from superstition and sin. Paul did not arouse the opposition of the silversmiths by picketing the temple of Diana or staging anti-idolatry rallies. All he did was teach the truth daily and send out his converts to witness to the lost people in the city. As more and more people got converted, fewer and fewer customers were available.

• “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” (1 Tim. 6:10, nkjv).
• Demetrius and his silversmiths were promoting idolatry and immorality in order to make a living,
• while Paul was declaring the true God and pointing people to cleansing and purity through the free grace of God.
• The silversmiths were really more concerned about their jobs and their income than they were about Diana and her temple, but they were wise enough not to make this known.

Benjamin Franklin said that a mob was “a monster with heads enough, but no brains.” How sad it is when people permit themselves to be led by a few selfish leaders who know the art of manipulation. Demetrius made use of the two things the Ephesians loved the most: the honor of their city and the greatness of their goddess and her temple. Without the help of radio, TV, or newspaper, he got his propaganda machine going and soon had the whole city in an uproar.^[14]

²⁸ Now when they (these self-serving artisans) heard this(of their pending financial disaster), they were full (under the complete influence) of wrath (filled with rage, fury) and cried out, (continually) saying, “Great is Diana (the fertility goddess, the leading god) of the Ephesians!” (The temple built for Diana, also called Artemis, was one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world.)

 ²⁹ So (under the manipulation of these self-serving artisans) the whole city was filled with confusion (riotous chaos), and rushed (headlong—with reckless haste) into the theater (which would hold around 25,000 people, and all) with one accord (with one mind, purpose), having seized (forcefully) Gaius and Aristarchus, Macedonians, Paul’s travel companions (whom we don’t know much about.  These men were treated as Stephen was in Acts 7:57, 58 by the Sanhedrin).

Benjamin Franklin said that a mob was “a monster with heads enough, but no brains.” How sad it is when people permit themselves to be led by a few selfish leaders who know the art of manipulation. Demetrius made use of the two things the Ephesians loved the most: the honor of their city and the greatness of their goddess and her temple. Without the help of radio, TV, or newspaper, he got his propaganda machine going and soon had the whole city in an uproar.

Max Lerner wrote in The Unfinished Country, “Every mob, in its ignorance and blindness and bewilderment, is a League of Frightened Men that seeks reassurance in collective action.” It was a “religious mob” that shouted “Crucify Him! Crucify Him!” to Pilate, and eventually got its way. Had this Ephesian mob succeeded in its plans, Paul would have been arrested and executed before the law could have stepped in to protect him.^[15]

 ³⁰ And when Paul (heard of this, he then) wanted to go in to the people (on behalf of his friends, but), the disciples would not allow him (to go to the theater). ³¹ Then (evidently still struggling with not going) some of the officials of Asia,[16] who were his (Paul’s) friends, sent to him pleading that he would not venture into the theater.

Courage— Wisdom: The Way of the Lord required great courage, but also wisdom. Paul and the other believers had naturally heard the uproar. “The whole city was filled with confusion,” caught up in the riot. When Paul discovered that his two dear disciples, Gaius and Aristarchus, had been dragged into the arena…

•  note his courage: he rushed in and tried to save them.

•  note that some of the local officials restrained Paul. These officials were “Asiarchs.” The word means the local representatives elected by a district to manage and oversee the public games and festivals of great cities. We do not know if the officials were believers, but they were at least friends of Paul.

We all need the courage to rush to the aid of God’s people when they are being ridiculed, abused, and persecuted for their faith. Too often, when a fellow believer is under attack, we sit quietly in the shadows thankful that it isn’t us under fire.

Ecclesiastes 4:9–12 – Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. ¹⁰ For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up. ¹¹ Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone? ¹²      Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

However, there are times when wisdom tells us to refrain from action. We are to be as Paul, willing to risk our lives for others, but not to foolishly endanger our lives.

Ecclesiastes 3:6–8 – A time to gain,

And a time to lose;

A time to keep,

And a time to throw away;

⁷   A time to tear,

And a time to sew;

A time to keep silence,

And a time to speak;

⁸   A time to love,

And a time to hate;

A time of war,

And a time of peace.

Preacher’s Outline and Sermon Bible – Commentary – The Preacher’s Outline & Sermon Bible – Acts.

³² (Back at the theater) Some therefore (as a result of this chaotic frenzy) cried one thing (about what was going on) and some another, (everyone had a different opinion about what was going on) for the assembly was confused (in a state of bewilderment), and most of them did not know (even have even a clue) why they had come together (at the theater). ³³ And they (some people in the crowd upon noticing him,) drew Alexander out of the multitude (who they must have respected and thought could bring some understanding and thus order to the confusion), the Jews (being the ones) putting him forward (before the frenzied crowd). And Alexander (possibly the Alexander that Paul turned over to Satan in 1 Timothy 1:20) motioned with his hand (trying to quiet the mob), and wanted to make his defense to the people (to instruct and advise them). ³⁴ But (as the mob began to quiet down) when they found out that he was a Jew (someone must have shouted “He’s a Jew!” because Jews generally held their god Diana in disdain), all (the Gentiles present) with one voice cried out for about two hours (the one thing they could finally all come together on), “Great is Diana of the Ephesians!” (Alexander never got to say a single word.)

³⁵ And (after 2 hours of “Great is Diana of the Ephesians!”) when the city clerk (the chief official of the city, the chancellor) had quieted the crowd, he said (showing he was a capable man): “Men of Ephesus, what man is there (anywhere in the world) who does not know that the city of the Ephesians is temple guardian (the premier temple warden) of the great goddess Diana, and of the image which fell down from Zeus? (Probably via a meteorite) ³⁶ Therefore (because of our superior guardianship, exhibition and promotion of the great Diana, and), since these things cannot be denied (by some Jew, Christian or anyone else), you ought to be quiet and do nothing rashly (and bring harm to yourself and/or our city seeing that nothing can be done to harm the power and reputation of our goddess Diana).

No doubt the man was sincere and that by all “appearances” correct, but there is only ONE Most High God to whom every knee will ultimately bow and every tongue will confess as Lord, and there is only One kingdom that will stand throughout all eternity.

 ³⁷ For you (guilty by association) have brought these men (Gaius and Aristarchus) here who are neither robbers of temples (thieves) nor blasphemers of your goddess (demonstrating out in front of the temple.  The chancellor certainly knew that the Jews and Christians believed Diana to be an idol, but for the sake of peace in the city didn’t choose to entertain that side of the issue.)

When Christianity takes a stand against an organization whose product and/or practices are sinful, we don’t steal from it, hurt its employees, or destroy its buildings.

Thought 1. Christianity does preach revolution, but not world revolution. It preaches spiritual revolution.

⇒  Christianity does not preach physical violence, but spiritual transformation.

⇒  Christianity does not promote weapons of physical warfare, but weapons of spiritual warfare.

⇒  Christianity does not teach destruction and death; it teaches a more abundant and eternal life.

⇒  Christianity does not destroy; it builds.

⇒  Christianity does not force; it preaches freedom mind and choice.

Therefore, the charge against these men was false in more ways than one.

The Ephesians had no need to fear. The temple, as idolatrous as it was, would not be destroyed by the Christian believers; neither would citizens be demeaned nor coerced to follow The Way. The choice was each man’s. No physical force whatsoever was involved. All Paul and the believers wanted was the right of free speech, the right to proclaim…

•  that God is.

•  that God is love.

•  that God has revealed His love in His Son Jesus Christ.

•  that God now invites men into a relationship with His Son Jesus Christ and to love each other, putting away every evil thing that hurts self and others.

Note a clear fact: The Way of Christ and of God is the best way for every society. Righteousness, love, and justice always help and build society; they never tear down and destroy. Naturally there may be some shock for a society to go through as it rids itself of evil professions and replaces them with good and healthy professions. But think of the glorious results—the lives saved, the maimed bodies prevented, the crumbling families united, the enslaved bodies delivered, and on and on. Think of the health and strength of a society with …little greed, a society with neighbors living for the welfare and love of each other.

 Proverbs 14:34 – Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.

Preacher’s Outline and Sermon Bible – Commentary – The Preacher’s Outline & Sermon Bible – Acts.

 ³⁸ Therefore (these men having no obvious punishable crime against Diana), if Demetrius (the instigator of this unauthorized and unruly assembly) and his fellow craftsmen have a case against anyone (think they have a legal complaint), the courts are open (are in session) and there are proconsuls (judges on duty). Let them (the accusers and defendants) bring charges against one another (if they like). ³⁹ But if you (the people of Ephesus) have any other inquiry to make (concerning these men), it shall be determined in the lawful assembly (according to the law). ⁴⁰ For (as it stands right now) we are in danger of being called in question for today’s (unofficial public) uproar, there being no (official or legal) reason (justification) which we may give to account (a legal reason) for this disorderly gathering.” ⁴¹ And when he had said these things, he dismissed the assembly (and they left).

One finds in this episode a theme that will continue to recur in the subsequent narrative of Acts—the innocence of the Christians with respect to the civil law. Paul was never found guilty by any Roman official. On the contrary, even if only implicitly, they pled his case, as with the friendly Asiarchs and the town clerk in this instance.^[17]

God, Presence— Deliverance: The Way of the Lord was miraculously protected by God. How God overruled is clearly seen in the verses above.

 In facing persecution, if it is God’s will for us to be delivered He can and will use men of the world to bring reason to the persecutors and to violence. God overrules the spirits of men. We must always remember this when we find ourselves in the midst of trouble.

 Genesis 28:15 – Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done what I have spoken to you.”

Isaiah 41:10 – Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’

Isaiah 43:1–2 – Thus says the Lord, who created you, O Jacob, and He who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you.

 Preacher’s Outline and Sermon Bible – Commentary – The Preacher’s Outline & Sermon Bible – Acts.

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^[1] Kistemaker, S. J., & Hendriksen, W. (1953–2001). Exposition of the Acts of the Apostles (Vol. 17, p. 677). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House.

^[2] Kistemaker, S. J., & Hendriksen, W. (1953–2001). Exposition of the Acts of the Apostles (Vol. 17, p. 677). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House.

[3] Romans 8:9, 16 – ⁹ But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His. – ¹⁶The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God…

[4] Acts 8:14–17 – Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them, ¹⁵ who, when they had come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. ¹⁶ For as yet He had fallen upon none of them. They had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. ¹⁷ Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.

^[5] Lenski, R. C. H. (1961). The Interpretation of the Acts of the Apostles (p. 790). Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Publishing House.

[6] In the Greco-Roman world, Jewish exorcists were held in high esteem for the venerability of their religion and the strangeness of their Hebrew incantations. Magicians and charlatans were omnipresent in the culture, offering various cures and blessings by their spells and incantations, all for a financial consideration. The more exotic the incantation, the more effective it was deemed to be.  Polhill, J. B. (1995). Acts (Vol. 26, p. 403). Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

^[7] Lenski, R. C. H. (1961). The Interpretation of the Acts of the Apostles (p. 797). Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Publishing House.

^[8] Kistemaker, S. J., & Hendriksen, W. (1953–2001). Exposition of the Acts of the Apostles (Vol. 17, p. 694). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House.

^[9] Kistemaker, S. J., & Hendriksen, W. (1953–2001). Exposition of the Acts of the Apostles (Vol. 17, p. 694). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House.

^[10] Kistemaker, S. J., & Hendriksen, W. (1953–2001). Exposition of the Acts of the Apostles (Vol. 17, p. 696). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House.

^[11] MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1994). Acts (p. 326). Chicago: Moody Press.

^[12] MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1994). Acts (p. 326). Chicago: Moody Press.

^[13] MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1994). Acts (p. 326). Chicago: Moody Press.

^[14] Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. 1, p. 482). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.

^[15] Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. 1, p. 482). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.

[16] These Asiarchs belonged to the wealthy class of society and were “delegates of individual cities to the provincial council (Commune Asiae) which regulated the worship of Rome and of the emperor. They were probably assembled at Ephesus, among other places, to preside over the public games and the religious rites at the festival, in honor of the gods and the emperor.” Kistemaker, S. J., & Hendriksen, W. (1953–2001). Exposition of the Acts of the Apostles (Vol. 17, p. 701). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House.

^[17] Polhill, J. B. (1992). Acts (Vol. 26, p. 414). Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers.