Acts 19:37

For you have brought these men here, though they have neither robbed our temple nor blasphemed our goddess.

Study Bible

For you have brought
This phrase indicates an action taken by the crowd in Ephesus. The Greek word for "brought" is "ἀγαγόντες" (agagontes), which implies leading or bringing someone forward. In the context of Acts 19, this refers to the tumultuous gathering of people who seized Paul's companions, Gaius and Aristarchus. Historically, this reflects the tension between the early Christian movement and the established pagan practices in Ephesus, a city known for its devotion to the goddess Artemis.

these men here
The "men" referred to are Gaius and Aristarchus, companions of Paul. The Greek term "ἄνδρας" (andras) is used, emphasizing their role as male figures in the early church. Their presence in Ephesus signifies the spread of Christianity beyond Jewish communities into Gentile regions, highlighting the universal mission of the Gospel.

who are neither robbers of temples
The phrase "robbers of temples" comes from the Greek "ἱεροσυλοῦς" (hierosylous), meaning those who commit sacrilege by stealing from sacred places. This accusation was serious, as temples were not only religious centers but also economic hubs. The defense here is that Paul and his companions respected the property and sanctity of the temples, countering any claims of disrespect towards local religious practices.

nor blasphemers of our goddess
"Blasphemers" is translated from the Greek "βλασφημοῦντας" (blasphēmountas), meaning to speak irreverently about sacred things. The "goddess" in question is Artemis, a central figure in Ephesian worship. The defense asserts that Paul and his companions did not directly attack or insult Artemis, which is crucial in understanding the Christian approach to evangelism—proclaiming the truth of Christ without unnecessary offense to local customs.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
An apostle spreading the Gospel in Ephesus, whose teachings were causing a significant cultural and economic stir.

2. Demetrius
A silversmith in Ephesus who incited a riot against Paul and his companions because their teachings threatened his trade of making silver shrines of Artemis.

3. Ephesus
A major city in Asia Minor, known for the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

4. Artemis
The goddess worshiped in Ephesus, central to the city's identity and economy.

5. Town Clerk
A city official who calmed the riotous crowd by pointing out that Paul and his companions had not committed sacrilege or blasphemy against Artemis.

Teaching Points

Respectful Engagement
Paul and his companions were not blasphemers, demonstrating the importance of engaging with differing beliefs respectfully and without slander.

Cultural Sensitivity
Understanding the cultural and economic implications of the Gospel message is crucial in ministry, as seen in the impact on the Ephesian economy.

Legal and Peaceful Defense
The town clerk's defense of Paul highlights the importance of legal and peaceful means in resolving conflicts.

Integrity in Witness
The accusation that Paul and his companions were neither robbers nor blasphemers underscores the importance of maintaining integrity in our Christian witness.

God's Sovereignty Over Idols
The passage reminds us of God's sovereignty over all creation, including man-made idols, encouraging believers to trust in God's ultimate authority.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul's approach in Ephesus reflect his broader strategy for sharing the Gospel in a culturally diverse world?

2. In what ways can Christians today engage with cultures that have different religious beliefs without compromising their faith?

3. How can the example of the town clerk's peaceful resolution be applied in modern-day conflicts within the church or community?

4. What lessons can we learn from the economic impact of the Gospel in Ephesus regarding the potential societal changes when the Gospel is preached?

5. How does understanding the original Greek term for "blasphemers" enhance our comprehension of the accusations against Paul and his companions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 17:22-31
Paul's speech at the Areopagus in Athens, where he addresses idolatry and introduces the concept of the "unknown god," connecting to his respectful approach in Ephesus.

1 Corinthians 8:4-6
Discusses the reality of idols and the supremacy of God, relevant to understanding the Christian perspective on idolatry.

Exodus 20:3-4
The commandment against idolatry, providing a foundation for understanding the Christian stance against worshiping other gods.