Acts 19:38
So if Demetrius and his fellow craftsmen have a complaint against anyone, the courts are open and proconsuls are available. Let them bring charges against one another there.
So if Demetrius and his fellow craftsmen
This phrase introduces us to Demetrius, a silversmith in Ephesus, who is mentioned earlier in Acts 19 as a key figure opposing Paul’s ministry. The Greek name "Demetrius" is derived from "Demeter," the goddess of the harvest, which is fitting given his role in crafting idols for the goddess Artemis. The "fellow craftsmen" refers to those who shared in the trade of making silver shrines, indicating a guild or association of artisans. Historically, such guilds were common in ancient cities, often wielding significant economic and social influence. This context highlights the tension between the burgeoning Christian movement and established economic interests tied to pagan worship.

have a complaint against anyone
The Greek word for "complaint" here is "logos," which can mean word, reason, or account. In this context, it refers to a formal grievance or accusation. The use of "anyone" suggests that the complaint is not just against Paul but potentially against any who threaten their trade. This reflects the broader conflict between the spread of Christianity and the entrenched pagan practices of the time. The phrase underscores the legal recourse available in the Roman system, emphasizing order and justice over mob action.

the courts are open
The phrase "the courts are open" refers to the availability of legal proceedings in the Roman judicial system. The Greek term "agoraioi" suggests a public forum or marketplace where legal matters were addressed. This indicates the structured and accessible nature of Roman law, which was a cornerstone of Roman governance. The open courts symbolize the rule of law, contrasting with the chaotic and unlawful assembly that had gathered against Paul. It serves as a reminder of the importance of lawful conduct and due process.

and proconsuls are available
Proconsuls were Roman officials who governed provinces. The Greek term "anthypatoi" denotes these high-ranking magistrates. In the context of Ephesus, a major city in the Roman province of Asia, the presence of proconsuls signifies the city's importance and the structured governance in place. This availability of proconsuls underscores the Roman commitment to justice and order, providing a legal avenue for grievances rather than resorting to violence or disorder.

Let them bring charges against one another
This phrase is an exhortation to pursue legal action through proper channels. The Greek word "enkaleito" means to accuse or bring charges. The directive to "bring charges against one another" emphasizes mutual accountability and the importance of resolving disputes through established legal means. It reflects the Christian principle of seeking justice and peace, aligning with the broader biblical theme of respecting authority and pursuing righteousness. This call to lawful resolution serves as a model for Christian conduct in the face of opposition and conflict.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Demetrius
A silversmith in Ephesus who made silver shrines of Artemis. He was concerned about the impact of Paul's preaching on his trade and incited a riot against Paul and his companions.

2. Craftsmen
Fellow tradesmen of Demetrius who were also involved in making idols and were worried about their livelihood due to the spread of Christianity.

3. Ephesus
A major city in Asia Minor, known for the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It was a center of commerce and pagan worship.

4. Courts
The legal system in place in Ephesus, which was part of the Roman Empire. The courts were the proper venue for resolving disputes.

5. Proconsuls
Roman officials who governed provinces. They were responsible for maintaining law and order and could adjudicate legal matters.
Teaching Points
Respect for Legal Systems
Christians are encouraged to respect and utilize the legal systems in place for resolving disputes, recognizing them as part of God's provision for maintaining order.

Peaceful Resolution of Conflicts
The passage highlights the importance of resolving conflicts through appropriate and peaceful means rather than resorting to violence or disorder.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Even in legal matters, believers can trust that God is sovereign and can work through human institutions to accomplish His purposes.

Witness in the Marketplace
The incident with Demetrius reminds Christians of the impact their faith can have on the marketplace and the importance of maintaining integrity and witness in business dealings.

Discernment in Conflict
Believers should exercise discernment in how they address conflicts, seeking solutions that honor God and reflect Christian values.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the response of the town clerk in Acts 19:38 demonstrate the importance of using legal systems to resolve disputes? How can this be applied in today's context?

2. In what ways can Christians maintain a positive witness in their workplaces, especially when their faith might conflict with business practices?

3. How does Romans 13:1-7 inform our understanding of the role of government and legal systems in resolving conflicts?

4. What are some practical steps believers can take to resolve conflicts peacefully and in a manner that honors God?

5. How can the principles found in Acts 19:38 and related scriptures guide us in handling disputes within the church community?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Romans 13:1-7
This passage discusses the role of governing authorities and the importance of submitting to them, as they are instituted by God. It connects to Acts 19:38 by emphasizing the proper use of legal systems for resolving disputes.

1 Corinthians 6:1-8
Paul advises believers to settle disputes among themselves rather than taking them to secular courts. This contrasts with the situation in Acts 19:38, where the secular court is suggested as the appropriate venue for resolving the issue.

Matthew 5:25-26
Jesus advises settling matters quickly with an adversary, which aligns with the idea of using legal means to resolve disputes peacefully.
The Spirit of Rebellion Against the GospelE. Johnson Acts 19:21-41
The Supreme ConflictW. Clarkson Acts 19:21-41
A Popular RiotR.A. Redford Acts 19:23-41
A Typical Exhibition of Human NatureP.C. Barker Acts 19:23-41
A Good Town ClerkS. S. TimesActs 19:24-41
CovetousnessA. Mitchell, D. D.Acts 19:24-41
Defence of Vested InterestsH. C. Trumbull, D. D.Acts 19:24-41
DemetriusS. S. TimesActs 19:24-41
MobsS. S. TimesActs 19:24-41
Paul and DemetriusJ. Parker, D. D.Acts 19:24-41
Paul and DemetriusH. W. Beecher.Acts 19:24-41
Paul At EphesusR. F. Horton, M. A.Acts 19:24-41
Pocket or PrincipleH. R. Haweis, M. A.Acts 19:24-41
Self Interest in OpinionR. Venning.Acts 19:24-41
Self-Interested IdolatryJ. L. Nye.Acts 19:24-41
The Power of Obscure MenG. S. Robinson, D. D.Acts 19:24-41
The Spirit of SeditionActs 19:24-41
The Temple of DianaT. De Witt Talmage.Acts 19:24-41
The Triumphs of the GospelD. Thomas, D. D.Acts 19:24-41
The Uproar At EphesusA. F. Schauffler.Acts 19:24-41
The Uproar At EphesusSermons by the Monday ClubActs 19:24-41
The Uproar in EphesusJ. Dick, A. M.Acts 19:24-41
The Worship of DianaDean Plumptre.Acts 19:24-41
Popular Disorders -- Their Cause and CureT. Chalmers, D. D.Acts 19:32-41
The Address of the Town ClerkD. Thomas, D. D.Acts 19:32-41
The Conduct of the Town ClerkH. R. Haweis, M. A.Acts 19:32-41
The Conduct of the Town Clerk as an ExampleActs 19:32-41
The Excitement At EphesusStems and Twigs for Sermon FrameworkActs 19:32-41
The Image of DianaProf. Eadie.Acts 19:32-41
The Speech of the Town ClerkW. Hackett.Acts 19:32-41
The Tumult At EphesusJ. H. Tasson.Acts 19:32-41
People
Alexander, Apollos, Aristarchus, Demetrius, Diana, Ephesians, Erastus, Gaius, John, Jupiter, Macedonians, Paul, Sceva, Timotheus, Timothy, Tyrannus
Places
Achaia, Asia, Corinth, Ephesus, Jerusalem, Macedonia, Rome
Topics
Accuse, Anybody, Anyone, Artificers, Artisans, Assize-days, Available, Bring, Cause, Charges, Complaint, Contention, Court, Courts, Craftsmen, Demetrius, Deme'trius, Deputies, Fellow, Grievance, Held, However, Implead, Indeed, Interested, Judges, Law, Matter, Mechanics, Open, Persons, Press, Proconsuls, Protest, Session, Support, Wherefore, Workmen
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Acts 19:38

     5464   proconsul

Acts 19:23-40

     5919   popularity

Acts 19:23-41

     4345   metalworkers
     5936   riots

Acts 19:32-41

     7751   persuasion

Acts 19:35-41

     5383   lawsuits

Acts 19:38-39

     5270   court

Acts 19:38-41

     5201   accusation

Library
Would-Be Exorcists
'...Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?' --ACTS xix. 15. These exorcists had no personal union with Jesus. To them He was only 'Jesus whom Paul preached.' They spoke His name tentatively, as an experiment, and imitatively. To command 'in the name of Jesus' was an appeal to Jesus to glorify His name and exert His power, and so when the speaker had no real faith in the name or the power, there was no answer, because there was really no appeal. I. The only power which can cast out the evil
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts

Two Fruitful Years
'And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples. 2. He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. 3. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. 4. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts

The Fight with Wild Beasts at Ephesus
'After these things were ended, Paul purposed in the spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I must also see Rome. 22. So he sent into Macedonia two of them that ministered unto him, Timotheus and Erastus; but he himself stayed in Asia for a season. 23. And the same time there arose no small stir about that way. 24. For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, which made silver shrines for Diana, brought no small gain unto
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts

Whitsunday.
Have you received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? It appears, by what follows these words, that the question here related especially to those gifts of the Holy Ghost which were given, in the first age of the church, as a sign of God's power, and a witness that the work of the gospel was from God. Yet although this be so, and therefore the words, in this particular sense, cannot to any good purpose be asked now; yet there is another sense, and that not a lower but a far higher one, in which we
Thomas Arnold—The Christian Life

On the Study of the Evidences of Christianity.
THE investigation of that important and extensive subject which includes what have been usually designated as The Evidences of Revelation,' has prescriptively occupied a considerable space in the field of theological literature, especially as cultivated in England. There is scarcely one, perhaps, of our more eminent divines who has not in a greater or less degree distinguished himself in this department, and scarcely an aspirant for theological distinction who has not thought it one of the surest
Frederick Temple—Essays and Reviews: The Education of the World

Paul's Journeys Acts 13:1-38:31
On this third journey he was already planning to go to Rome (Acts 19:21) and wrote an epistle to the Romans announcing his coming (Rom. 1:7, 15). +The Chief City+, in which Paul spent most of his time (Acts 19:1, 8, 10), between two and three years upon this journey, was Ephesus in Asia Minor. This city situated midway between the extreme points of his former missionary journeys was a place where Ephesus has been thus described: "It had been one of the early Greek colonies, later the capital
Henry T. Sell—Bible Studies in the Life of Paul

The Pastoral Epistles.
Comp. § 33, pp. 327-329. Contents. The three Pastoral Epistles, two to Timothy and one to Titus, form a group by themselves, and represent the last stage of the apostle's life and labors, with his parting counsels to his beloved disciples and fellow-workers. They show us the transition of the apostolic church from primitive simplicity to a more definite system of doctrine and form of government. This is just what we might expect from the probable time of their composition after the first Roman
Philip Schaff—History of the Christian Church, Volume I

Whether Baptism May be Reiterated?
Objection 1: It seems that Baptism may be reiterated. For Baptism was instituted, seemingly, in order to wash away sins. But sins are reiterated. Therefore much more should Baptism be reiterated: because Christ's mercy surpasses man's guilt. Objection 2: Further, John the Baptist received special commendation from Christ, Who said of him (Mat. 11:11): "There hath not risen among them that are born of women, a greater than John the Baptist." But those whom John had baptized were baptized again, according
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Pastor in Parish (ii. ).
Work on in hope; the plough, the sickle wield; Thy Master is the harvest's Master too; He gives the golden seed, He owns the field, And does Himself what His true servants do. I take up again the all-important subject of Pastoral Visitation, for the same sort of informal and fragmentary treatment as that attempted in the last chapter, and with the same feeling that the subject is practically inexhaustible. LET THE VISITOR BE A TEACHER, WATCHING FOR OPPORTUNITIES. One object which the visitor will
Handley C. G. Moule—To My Younger Brethren

The Scriptures
Q-II: WHAT RULE HAS GOD GIVEN TO DIRECT US HOW WE MAY GLORIFY AND ENJOY HIM? A: The Word of God, which is contained in the scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, is the only rule to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him. 2 Tim 3:16. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God,' By Scripture is understood the sacred Book of God. It is given by divine inspiration; that is, the Scripture is not the contrivance of man's brain, but is divine in its origin. The image of Diana was had in veneration
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

Christ's Exaltation
'Wherefore God also has highly exalted him, and given him a name above every name, &c.' Phil 2:2. We have before spoken of Christ's humiliation; we shall now speak of his exaltation. Before you saw the Sun of Righteousness in the eclipse; now you shall see it coming out of the eclipse, and shining in its full glory. Wherefore God has highly exalted him;' super exaltavit, Ambrose. Above all exaltation.' Q-28: WHEREIN CONSISTS CHRIST'S EXALTATION? A: In his rising from the dead, his ascending into
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

The Old Faiths and the New
SECOND GROUP OF EPISTLES GALATIANS. FIRST AND SECOND CORINTHIANS. ROMANS. PROBLEMS OF EARLY CHRISTIANITY The new faith in Christ made large claims for itself. It marked an advance upon Judaism and maintained that in Christ was fulfilled all the promises made by the prophets of the coming of the Jewish Messiah. It radically antagonized the heathen religions. It had a double task to win men out of Judaism and heathenism. Only by a careful study of these great doctrinal Epistles, and the
Henry T. Sell—Bible Studies in the Life of Paul

The Supremacy of Christ
THIRD GROUP OF EPISTLES COLOSSIANS. PHILEMON. EPHESIANS. PHILIPPIANS. THE QUESTION AT ISSUE +The Supremacy of Christ.+--These Epistles mark a new stage in the writings of Paul. The great question discussed in the second group of Epistles was in regard to the terms of salvation. The question now at issue (in Colossians, Ephesians, Philippian+The Reason for the Raising of this Question+ was the development of certain false religious beliefs among which were, "asceticism, the worship of angels,
Henry T. Sell—Bible Studies in the Life of Paul

The Spirit and Power of Elias.
(LUKE I. 17.) "Oh, may I join the choir invisible Of those immortal dead who live again In minds made better by their presence: live In pulses stirred to generosity; In deeds of daring rectitude; in scorn For miserable aims that end with self; In thoughts sublime that pierce the night like stars, And with their mild persistence urge man's search To vaster issues." The Old Covenant and the New--Elijah and the Baptist--A Parallel--The Servant inferior to the Lord--The Baptism of the Holy Ghost--The
F. B. Meyer—John the Baptist

Baptism unto Repentance
(MARK I. 4.) "The last and greatest herald of heaven's King, Girt with rough skins, hies to the desert wild; Among that savage brood the woods doth bring, Which he more harmless found than man, and mild. "His food was locusts and what there doth spring, With honey that from virgin hives distill'd, Parch'd body, hollow eyes, some uncouth thing Made him appear, long since from earth exiled." W. DRUMMOND, of Hawthornden. Repentance: its Nature--Repentance: how Produced--Repentance: its Evidences--Repentance:
F. B. Meyer—John the Baptist

Elucidation.
The argument (p. 673, note 6,) is conclusive, but not clear. The disciples of John must have been baptized by him, (Luke vii. 29-30) and "all the people," must have included those whom Jesus called. But, this was not Christ's baptism: See Acts xix. 2, 5. Compare note 8, p. 673. And see the American Editor's "Apollos."
Tertullian—On Baptism

Whether those who had Been Baptized with John's Baptism had to be Baptized with the Baptism of Christ?
Objection 1: It would seem that those who had been baptized with John's baptism had not to be baptized with the baptism of Christ. For John was not less than the apostles, since of him is it written (Mat. 11:11): "There hath not risen among them that are born of women a greater than John the Baptist." But those who were baptized by the apostles were not baptized again, but only received the imposition of hands; for it is written (Acts 8:16,17) that some were "only baptized" by Philip "in the name
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether the Wicked Can Work Miracles?
Objection 1: It would seem that the wicked cannot work miracles. For miracles are wrought through prayer, as stated above (A[1], ad 1). Now the prayer of a sinner is not granted, according to Jn. 9:31, "We know that God doth not hear sinners," and Prov. 28:9, "He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, his prayer shall be an abomination." Therefore it would seem that the wicked cannot work miracles. Objection 2: Further, miracles are ascribed to faith, according to Mat. 17:19, "If you have
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

How Long Between?
It is often asked what time must elapse between the regenerating by the Spirit and the filling with the Spirit? for be it remembered the Filling is as real and distinct and definite a blessing as the regenerating. Many people know the moment of their new birth; they were conscious of the change; so also many know when they were "filled with the Holy Ghost;" it was a blessed, bright, conscious experience, and it is as impossible to argue them out of the one experience as out of the other. On the other
John MacNeil—The Spirit-Filled Life

The Doctrine of the Church i. Definition; Distinctions.
1. OLD TESTAMENT. 2. NEW TESTAMENT. 3. THE CHURCH; CHRISTENDOM; KINGDOM. II. THE FOUNDING OF THE CHURCH. 1. IN PROPHECY AND PROMISE. 2. HISTORICALLY FOUNDED. III. MEMBERSHIP IN THE CHURCH. Conditions of Entrance; Characteristics. 1. REPENTANCE AND BAPTISM. 2. FAITH IN THE DEITY OF JESUS CHRIST. 3. REGENERATION. 4. PUBLIC CONFESSION OF CHRIST--BAPTISM. 5. ADHERENCE TO THE APOSTLES' DOCTRINE. 6. CHARACTERISTICS. IV. FIGURES UNDER WHICH THE CHURCH IS PRESENTED. 1. THE BODY OF CHRIST. 2. THE TEMPLE OF
Rev. William Evans—The Great Doctrines of the Bible

Gifts no Certain Evidence of Grace.
"In this rejoice not, that the Spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your Names are written in Heaven." Abundant notice of Christ's coming preceded that interesting' event. "To him gave all the prophets witness." Neither was his entrance here unattended. It was announced by an angelic choir; by a miraculous star; and by a band of eastern magi. The manger which contained him, was particularly pointed out to the shepherds, and his person designated by inspired Simon and Anna. Again,
Andrew Lee et al—Sermons on Various Important Subjects

Preventive against Backsliding.
It is most instructive to note how exceedingly anxious the early Christians were, that, as soon as a man was converted, he should be "filled with the Holy Ghost." They knew no reason why weary wastes of disappointing years should stretch between Bethel and Peniel, between the Cross and Pentecost. They knew it was not God's will that forty years of wilderness wanderings should lie between Egypt and the Promised Land (Deut. i. 2). When Peter and John came to the Samaritans, and found that they were
John MacNeil—The Spirit-Filled Life

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