Acts 16:18
She continued this for many days. Eventually Paul grew so aggravated that he turned and said to the spirit, "In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her!" And the spirit left her at that very moment.
She continued this for many days
The phrase "She continued this" refers to the slave girl who was possessed by a spirit of divination, as described earlier in Acts 16. The Greek word for "continued" (παρεῖχεν, pareichen) implies persistence and endurance. This suggests that the girl’s actions were not a one-time occurrence but a repeated disturbance. Historically, this persistence would have been a significant nuisance, especially in a culture where public reputation and order were highly valued. The phrase "for many days" indicates a prolonged period, emphasizing the patience and forbearance of Paul and his companions before taking action.

Eventually Paul grew so aggravated
The word "aggravated" (διαπονηθεὶς, diaponētheis) in Greek conveys a sense of being greatly troubled or distressed. This was not merely an annoyance but a deep spiritual and emotional disturbance. From a conservative Christian perspective, this reflects the righteous indignation that believers may feel when confronted with evil or deception. Paul's aggravation was not just personal irritation but a response to the spiritual oppression and the distortion of the gospel message.

that he turned and said to the spirit
The act of turning signifies a decisive moment of confrontation. In the biblical context, turning often symbolizes a change in direction or focus, both physically and spiritually. By addressing "the spirit," Paul acknowledges the true source of the disturbance, distinguishing between the girl and the demonic influence controlling her. This highlights the biblical principle of spiritual discernment, recognizing the unseen forces at work in the world.

'I command you in the name of Jesus Christ
The phrase "I command you" (παραγγέλλω, parangellō) is authoritative, reflecting the apostolic authority given to Paul. The invocation "in the name of Jesus Christ" is crucial, as it signifies the power and authority of Jesus over all spiritual realms. In the ancient world, names were believed to carry power, and invoking the name of Jesus was a declaration of His supreme authority. This reflects the Christian belief in the power of Jesus' name to overcome evil.

to come out of her!'
The command "to come out" (ἐξελθεῖν, exelthein) is a direct order for the spirit to leave the girl. This reflects the biblical theme of deliverance and liberation from spiritual bondage. The exclamation mark emphasizes the urgency and authority of the command. In a historical context, exorcisms were not uncommon, but the effectiveness of Paul's command underscores the unique power of Jesus Christ.

And it came out at that very moment
The phrase "at that very moment" (αὐτῇ τῇ ὥρᾳ, autē tē hōra) indicates the immediacy and effectiveness of the command. This immediate response demonstrates the power of Jesus' name and the authority given to His apostles. From a conservative Christian perspective, this serves as a testament to the reality of spiritual warfare and the victory believers have through Christ. The historical and scriptural context reinforces the belief in the transformative power of faith and the authority of Jesus over all creation.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Paul
An apostle of Jesus Christ, known for his missionary journeys and spreading the Gospel to the Gentiles. In this passage, he demonstrates spiritual authority.

2. The Slave Girl
A young woman possessed by a spirit of divination, which allowed her to predict the future. She was being exploited by her owners for financial gain.

3. The Spirit of Divination
A demonic spirit that enabled the slave girl to tell fortunes. The Greek term used is (pneuma pyth?na), referring to a spirit associated with the oracle of Delphi.

4. Philippi
A city in Macedonia where this event took place. It was a Roman colony and a significant location for early Christian missions.

5. The Name of Jesus Christ
The authority by which Paul commands the spirit to leave the girl, demonstrating the power of Jesus over demonic forces.
Teaching Points
Authority in Christ
Believers have authority in the name of Jesus to confront and overcome spiritual opposition. This authority is not of our own but is granted through Christ.

Discernment in Ministry
Paul’s response came after many days, indicating the need for discernment and patience in spiritual matters. We must seek God’s timing and wisdom in addressing spiritual issues.

The Power of Jesus' Name
The immediate departure of the spirit upon Paul’s command highlights the power inherent in the name of Jesus. This power is available to believers today.

Freedom from Oppression
The deliverance of the slave girl signifies Jesus’ mission to set captives free, both spiritually and physically. We are called to be agents of liberation in our communities.

Confronting Exploitation
The passage challenges us to recognize and confront systems of exploitation and injustice, advocating for those who are oppressed.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does Paul’s response to the spirit of divination demonstrate the authority given to believers in Christ? Reflect on how you can apply this authority in your own life.

2. What can we learn from Paul’s patience and timing in addressing the spiritual issue with the slave girl? How can this inform our approach to spiritual discernment?

3. In what ways does the power of Jesus' name manifest in your life and community? Share examples of how you have witnessed or experienced this power.

4. How does this passage challenge us to address modern forms of exploitation and injustice? What practical steps can you take to advocate for those who are oppressed?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced spiritual opposition. How did you respond, and what role did your faith in Jesus play in overcoming it? How can this passage encourage you in future spiritual battles?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Mark 16:17
Jesus speaks of signs that will accompany believers, including casting out demons in His name, which connects to Paul's action in Acts 16:18.

Luke 10:17
The seventy-two disciples return with joy, reporting that even demons submit to them in Jesus' name, illustrating the authority given to believers.

Ephesians 6:12
Paul later writes about the spiritual battle against evil forces, which is exemplified in his encounter with the spirit of divination.
The Day that Looked Like the Day of Small ThingsP.C. Barker Acts 16:14, 15, 40
The Kingdom of Light Revealing ItselfR.A. Redford Acts 16:16-18
The Witness of Evil to the GoodE. Johnson Acts 16:16-18
Five Truths from PhilippiW. Clarkson Acts 16:16-25
Paul and the Damsel of PhilippiJ. Parker, D. D.Acts 16:16-25
The Devil of AvariceD. Thomas, D. D.Acts 16:16-25
The PythonessDean Plumptre.Acts 16:16-25
The Rescue of a SlaveH. J. Martyn.Acts 16:16-25
The Soothsaying Damsel At PhilippiJohn Elstob.Acts 16:16-25
An Illustrious Triple Triumph of ChristianityP.C. Barker Acts 16:16-39
People
Lydia, Paul, Silas, Timotheus, Timothy
Places
Asia, Bithynia, Derbe, Galatia, Iconium, Jerusalem, Lystra, Macedonia, Mysia, Neapolis, Philippi, Phrygia, Samothrace, Thyatira, Troas
Topics
Annoyed, Becoming, Charge, Christ, Command, Considerable, Continued, Distressed, Enjoin, Finally, Forth, Greatly, Grieved, Hour, Immediately, Moment, Orders, Paul, Persisted, Round, Sore, Spirit, Troubled, Turning, Wearied
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Acts 16:18

     1416   miracles, nature of
     2351   Christ, miracles
     4126   Satan, resistance to
     4135   demons, Christ's authority over
     8405   commands, in NT

Acts 16:13-21

     5745   women

Acts 16:16-18

     4155   divination
     5695   girls
     8160   seeking God
     9130   future, the

Acts 16:16-19

     4134   demons, exorcism
     5333   healing

Acts 16:16-21

     7448   slavery, in NT

Acts 16:16-24

     2012   Christ, authority
     8483   spiritual warfare, causes

Acts 16:17-18

     4165   exorcism
     8228   discernment, examples

Library
Paul at Philippi
'And on the sabbath day we went forth without the gate, by a river side, where we supposed there was a place of prayer; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which were come together.' --ACTS xvi. 13 (R.V.). This is the first record of the preaching of the Gospel in Europe, and probably the first instance of it. The fact that the vision of the man of Macedonia was needed in order to draw the Apostle across the straits into Macedonia, and the great length at which the incidents at Philippi are
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts

How to Secure a Prosperous Voyage
'And after [Paul] had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them. 11. Therefore ... we came with a straight course.'--ACTS xvi. 10, 11. This book of the Acts is careful to point out how each fresh step in the extension of the Church's work was directed and commanded by Jesus Christ Himself. Thus Philip was sent by specific injunction to 'join himself' to the chariot of the Ethiopian statesman.
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts

The Riot at Philippi
'And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the rulers, 20. And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city, 21. And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans. 22. And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them. 23. And when they had laid many
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts

The Great Question and the Plain Answer
'He brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? 31. And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shall be saved.'--ACTS xvi. 30, 31. The keeper of a Macedonian jail was not likely to be a very nervous or susceptible person. And so the extraordinary state of agitation and panic into which this rough jailer was cast needs some kind of explanation. There had been, as you will all remember, an earthquake of a strange kind, for it not only opened the prison doors, but shook
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts

Household Salvation
To allure and encourage you to long for family religion, I have selected this text this morning. God grant it may answer the purpose designed. May many here have a spiritual hunger and thirst, that they may receive the blessing which so largely rested upon the Philippian jailer. Note in our text five things. We have a whole household hearing the word, a whole household believing it, a whole household baptized, a whole household working for God, and then, a whole household rejoicing. I. Observe, first,
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 17: 1871

Lydia, the First European Convert
WE MAY LAUDABLY EXERCISE CURIOSITY with regard to the first proclamation of the gospel in our own quarter of the globe. We are happy that history so accurately tells us, by the pen of Luke, when first the gospel was preached in Europe, and by whom, and who was the first convert brought by that preaching to the Savior's feet. I half envy Lydia that she should be the leader of the European band; yet I feel right glad that a woman led the van, and that her household followed so closely in the rear.
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 37: 1891

The Cry of the Heathen
And now, beloved, having thus prefaced our discourse, we have another observation to make before we proceed to a full discussion of the text. What an instance of Divine sovereignty we have in our text! He who is wise can see sovereignty everywhere in the work of salvation, but how clearly is it present here. Bithynia must not hear the gospel; the apostle desires to go and preach it there; but as yet, it seems, God does not intend that Bithynia should be evangelised. He desires to tarry in Asia, and
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 4: 1858

The Heavenly Father
ACTS xvi. 24-28. God that made the world, and all that therein is, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands . . . For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. I told you last Sunday of the meaning of the days of the week; but one day I left out--namely, Tuesday. I did so on purpose. I wish to speak of that day by itself in this sermon. I told you how our forefathers worshipped
Charles Kingsley—The Good News of God

Note
THERE is a passage in an old writer which throws so much light on some points mentioned in this paper, that I make no excuse for giving it to the reader in its entirety. It comes from a work which is little known and less read. It has done me good, and I think it may do good to others. "When a man is awakened, and brought to that, that all must be brought to, or to worse,' What shall I do to be saved!' (Acts 16:30-31), we have the apostolic answer to it: ' Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou
John Charles Ryle—The Upper Room: Being a Few Truths for the Times

Saving Faith.
And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.--ACTS xvi. 30,31. This is one of the most abused texts in the Bible, and one which, perhaps, has been made to do quite as much work for the devil as for God. Let every saint present, ask in faith for the light of the Holy Ghost, while we try rightly to apply it. Let us enquire:-- 1. Who are to believe? 2. When are they to believe? 3. How are
Catherine Booth—Godliness

Directions to Sinners.
Text--What shall I do to be saved.--Acts xvi. 30. THESE are the words of the jailor at Philippi, the question which he put to Paul and Silas, who were then under his care as prisoners. Satan had, in many ways, opposed these servants of God in their work of preaching the Gospel, and had been as often defeated and disgraced. But here, at Philippi, he devised a new and peculiar project for frustrating their labors. There was a certain woman at Philippi, who was possessed with a spirit of divination,
Charles Grandison Finney—Lectures on Revivals of Religion

Measures to Promote Revivals.
Text.--These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city and teach customs which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.--Acts xvi. 20, 21. "THESE men," here spoken of, were Paul and Silas, who went to Philippi to preach the Gospel, and very much disturbed the people of that city, because they supposed the preaching would interfere with their worldly gains. And so they arranged the preachers of the Gospel before the magistrates of the city, as culprits, and charged
Charles Grandison Finney—Lectures on Revivals of Religion

The Missionary on the Sea Shore.
"And a vision appeared to Paul in the night: There stood a man of Macedonia and prayed him saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us."--Acts 16:9. "Wei schaumt so feierlich zu unsern Fuessen." [65]F. de la Motte Fouque. transl., Jane Borthwick, 1858 Dark mighty Ocean, rolling to our feet! In thy low murmur many voices meet, The sound of distant lands brought strangely near To Fancy's ear. From shores unknown comes the sweet Sabbath bell, New languages the old glad tidings tell, We hear the
Jane Borthwick—Hymns from the Land of Luther

Chrysostom Evades Election to a Bishopric, and Writes his Work on the Priesthood.
About this time several bishoprics were vacant in Syria, and frequent depositions took place with the changing fortunes of orthodoxy and Arianism, and the interference of the court. The attention of the clergy and the people turned to Chrysostom and his friend Basil as suitable candidates for the episcopal office, although they had not the canonical age of thirty. Chrysostom shrunk from the responsibilities and avoided an election by a pious fraud. He apparently assented to an agreement with Basil
St. Chrysostom—On the Priesthood

The Christian's Peace and the Christian's Consistency
PHILIPPIANS i. 21-30 He will be spared to them--Spiritual wealth of the paragraph--Adolphe Monod's exposition--Charles Simeon's testimony--The equilibrium and its secret--The intermediate bliss--He longs for their full consistency--The "gift" of suffering Ver. 21. +For to me, to live is Christ+; the consciousness and experiences of living, in the body, are so full of Christ, my supreme Interest, that CHRIST sums them all up; +and to die+, the act of dying,[1] +is gain+, for it will usher me in
Handley C. G. Moule—Philippian Studies

The Martyrs of Lyons and vienne (Ad 177)
Many other martyrs suffered in various parts of the empire under the reign of Marcus Aurelius. Among the most famous of these are the martyrs of Lyons and Vienne, in the south of France (or Gaul, as it was then called), where a company of missionaries from Asia Minor had settled with a bishop named Pothinus at their head. The persecution at Lyons and Vienne was begun by the mob of those towns, who insulted the Christians in the streets, broke into their houses, and committed other such outrages against
J. C. Roberston—Sketches of Church History, from AD 33 to the Reformation

Scotland and Ireland
The only thing which seems to be settled as to the religious history of Scotland in these times, is that a bishop named Ninian preached among the Southern Picts between the years 412 and 432, and established a see at Whithorn, in Galloway. But in the Year of St. Ninian's death, a far more famous missionary, St. Patrick, who is called "the Apostle of Ireland," began his labours in that island. It is a question whether Patrick was born in Scotland, at a place called Kirkpatrick, near the river Clyde,
J. C. Roberston—Sketches of Church History, from AD 33 to the Reformation

Whether Since Christ's Passion the Legal Ceremonies Can be Observed Without Committing Mortal Sin?
Objection 1: It would seem that since Christ's Passion the legal ceremonies can be observed without committing mortal sin. For we must not believe that the apostles committed mortal sin after receiving the Holy Ghost: since by His fulness they were "endued with power from on high" (Lk. 24:49). But the apostles observed the legal ceremonies after the coming of the Holy Ghost: for it is stated (Acts 16:3) that Paul circumcised Timothy: and (Acts 21:26) that Paul, at the advice of James, "took the men,
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Pædobaptism. Its Accordance with the Institution of Christ, and the Nature of the Sign.
1. Pædobaptism. The consideration of the question necessary and useful. Pædobaptism of divine origin. 2. This demonstrated from a consideration of the promises. These explain the nature and validity of Pædobaptism. 3. Promises annexed to the symbol of water cannot be better seen than in the institution of circumcision. 4. The promise and thing figured in circumcision and baptism one and the same. The only difference in the external ceremony. 5. Hence the baptism of the children
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

Children Devoted to God. Gen. 17:7,10; Acts 16:14,15,33.
Children devoted to God. Gen. 17:7,10; Acts 16:14,15,33. [For those who practise infant Baptism.] Thus saith the mercy of the Lord, "I'll be a God to thee; I'll bless thy num'rous race, and they Shall be a seed for me." Abram believed the promised grace, And gave his sons to God; But water seals the blessing now, That once was sealed with blood. Thus Lydia sanctified her house, When she received the word; Thus the believing jailer gave His household to the Lord. Thus later saints, eternal King!
Isaac Watts—The Psalms and Hymns of Isaac Watts

Acts 17:16-17. Athens.
[9] "Now, while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry." Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him." --Acts 17:16-17. PERHAPS the reader of this paper lives in a town or city, and sees more of bricks and mortar than of green fields. Perhaps you have some relative or friend living in a town, about whom you naturally feel a deep interest.
John Charles Ryle—The Upper Room: Being a Few Truths for the Times

Conversion, Its Nature and Necessity.
Closely related to the doctrine of the power, or efficacy, of the divine Word--as considered in the last chapter--is the doctrine of conversion. It is the subject of conversion, therefore, that we now purpose to examine. It is an important subject. It deserves a prominent place in treating of the Way of Salvation. It is also an intensely personal subject. Each one who desires to be in the Way of Salvation is personally interested in it. The eternal destiny of every one who reads these pages is closely
G. H. Gerberding—The Way of Salvation in the Lutheran Church

The Law Established through Faith
Discourse I "Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: Yea, we establish the law." Romans 3:31. 1. St. Paul, having the beginning of this Epistle laid down his general proposition, namely, that "the gospel of Christ is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth;" -- the powerful means, whereby God makes every believer a partaker of present and eternal salvation; -- goes on to show, that there is no other way under heaven whereby men can be saved. He speaks particularly
John Wesley—Sermons on Several Occasions

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