Acts 20:9

And a certain young man named Eutychus, seated in the window, was sinking into a deep sleep as Paul talked on and on. When he was sound asleep, he fell from the third story and was picked up dead.

Study Bible

And a certain young man named Eutychus
The name "Eutychus" is of Greek origin, meaning "fortunate" or "lucky." This young man, whose name suggests good fortune, finds himself in a precarious situation. His presence in the narrative highlights the inclusivity of the early Christian community, which welcomed individuals from various backgrounds and ages. The mention of his youth may also suggest a certain vulnerability or inexperience, which plays into the unfolding events.

who was sitting on the windowsill
The windowsill, in the architectural context of the time, would have been a place of both opportunity and danger. Sitting there might have been a way to catch a breeze in a crowded room, but it also placed Eutychus in a risky position. This setting serves as a metaphor for spiritual vigilance, reminding believers to be mindful of where they position themselves in their faith journey.

was sinking into a deep sleep
The phrase "sinking into a deep sleep" suggests a gradual process, indicating that Eutychus did not fall asleep suddenly. This can be seen as a cautionary tale about spiritual complacency. Just as physical sleep can overtake someone slowly, spiritual lethargy can creep into a believer's life if they are not attentive to their spiritual disciplines and community engagement.

as Paul talked on and on
Paul's extended discourse reflects the depth and richness of his teaching. The apostle's commitment to sharing the Gospel, even at great length, underscores the importance of sound doctrine and the need for believers to be grounded in their faith. This phrase also highlights the early church's hunger for the Word, as they gathered late into the night to hear Paul's message.

Overcome by sleep
The word "overcome" suggests a struggle or battle, indicating that Eutychus may have been trying to stay awake but was ultimately defeated by his physical exhaustion. This serves as a reminder of the human condition and the limitations of the flesh, even in the presence of spiritual fervor. It calls believers to be aware of their own weaknesses and to seek strength in Christ.

he fell down from the third story
The fall from the third account is both literal and symbolic. Literally, it was a significant height, indicating the severity of the situation. Symbolically, it represents the potential consequences of spiritual neglect or distraction. The third account can also be seen as a metaphor for the heights of spiritual experience from which one can fall if not vigilant.

and was picked up dead
The phrase "picked up dead" confirms the seriousness of the incident. In the physical sense, Eutychus was lifeless, illustrating the ultimate consequence of spiritual slumber—spiritual death. However, this sets the stage for a miraculous intervention, reminding believers of the power of God to restore and revive, even in seemingly hopeless situations. This narrative encourages faith in God's ability to bring life where there is death, both physically and spiritually.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Eutychus
A young man who fell asleep during Paul's lengthy discourse and fell from a third-story window.

2. Paul
The apostle delivering a long message to the believers gathered in Troas.

3. Troas
A city in the Roman province of Asia, where Paul and the believers were gathered.

4. Upper Room
The location where the believers were meeting, likely a third-story room.

5. The Fall
The event where Eutychus fell asleep and subsequently fell from the window, leading to his death.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Spiritual Vigilance
Just as Eutychus physically fell asleep, believers must guard against spiritual lethargy. Staying spiritually alert is crucial in our walk with Christ.

The Power of God's Word
Paul's lengthy discourse signifies the depth and richness of God's Word. Believers should hunger for and prioritize the teaching of Scripture in their lives.

God's Miraculous Intervention
Eutychus's revival is a testament to God's power over life and death. It reminds us of God's ability to restore and renew, even in seemingly hopeless situations.

Community and Fellowship
The gathering in Troas highlights the importance of Christian fellowship. Believers should seek to gather regularly for mutual edification and encouragement.

The Role of Patience and Endurance
Paul's extended teaching session demonstrates the need for patience and endurance in both delivering and receiving God's Word. Believers should cultivate a heart willing to listen and learn.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can Eutychus's experience teach us about the dangers of spiritual complacency, and how can we guard against it in our own lives?

2. How does the miraculous revival of Eutychus illustrate God's power and grace, and how can this encourage us in our personal challenges?

3. In what ways can we prioritize the teaching and study of God's Word in our daily lives, similar to the believers in Troas?

4. How does the concept of spiritual vigilance in 1 Thessalonians 5:6 relate to the physical sleep of Eutychus, and what practical steps can we take to stay spiritually awake?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's intervention in a difficult situation. How can sharing this testimony encourage others in your faith community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 20:7-12
Provides the broader context of Paul's visit to Troas, including the breaking of bread and the miraculous revival of Eutychus.

1 Thessalonians 5:6
Encourages believers to stay awake and be sober, drawing a spiritual parallel to the physical sleep of Eutychus.

Matthew 26:40-41
Jesus' admonition to His disciples to stay awake and pray, highlighting the importance of spiritual vigilance.

2 Corinthians 12:9
Paul's teaching on God's power being made perfect in weakness, which can relate to the miraculous event following Eutychus's fall.