Acts 19:18

Many who had believed now came forward, confessing and disclosing their deeds.

Study Bible

Many who had believed
This phrase indicates a significant number of individuals who had come to faith in Jesus Christ. The Greek word for "believed" is "πιστεύω" (pisteuō), which means to have faith or trust. This belief is not merely intellectual assent but a deep, transformative trust in Jesus as Lord and Savior. Historically, Ephesus was a center of pagan worship and magic, making the conversion of many to Christianity a remarkable testament to the power of the Gospel. The phrase underscores the communal aspect of faith, as these believers were part of a growing Christian community.

now came forward
The act of coming forward signifies a public declaration and a willingness to be identified with the Christian faith. In the cultural context of Ephesus, stepping forward would have been a bold move, as it meant breaking away from societal norms and potentially facing persecution. The Greek word "προσερχομαι" (proserchomai) implies an approach or drawing near, suggesting that these believers were moving towards a new life in Christ, leaving behind their old ways.

confessing
The Greek word "ἐξομολογέω" (exomologeō) means to confess or acknowledge openly. This confession is not just a private admission but a public acknowledgment of one's sins and wrongdoings. In the Jewish tradition, confession was an integral part of repentance, often accompanied by a change in behavior. The act of confessing here indicates a genuine repentance and a desire to be cleansed from past sins, aligning with the Christian teaching of seeking forgiveness through Christ.

and disclosing their deeds
The phrase "disclosing their deeds" involves revealing actions that were previously hidden or secret. The Greek word "πράξεις" (praxeis) refers to deeds or actions, often with a moral or ethical implication. In the context of Ephesus, known for its magical practices, these deeds likely included sorcery or idolatry. By disclosing these deeds, the believers were renouncing their former lives and practices, demonstrating the transformative power of the Gospel. This public disclosure also served as a testimony to others of the change that faith in Christ can bring.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ephesus
A major city in Asia Minor where Paul conducted significant ministry work. It was known for its temple to Artemis and was a center of pagan worship and occult practices.

2. Believers
Individuals who had come to faith in Jesus Christ through the ministry of Paul and others. They were previously involved in various sinful practices, including magic and idolatry.

3. Confession and Disclosure
The act of openly admitting one's sins and practices, particularly those related to the occult and idolatry, as a sign of genuine repentance and transformation.

4. Paul the Apostle
The primary missionary and teacher in Ephesus during this time, whose preaching and miracles led many to faith in Christ.

5. Occult Practices
Activities related to magic and sorcery, which were prevalent in Ephesus and were renounced by the new believers as they turned to Christ.

Teaching Points

The Power of Confession
Confession is a powerful act that brings hidden sins into the light, allowing for healing and restoration. It is a necessary step in the process of repentance and spiritual growth.

Renouncing Sinful Practices
True belief in Christ leads to a transformation that includes renouncing past sinful behaviors. This is a public declaration of a changed life and commitment to Christ.

Community and Accountability
The act of confessing sins within a community of believers fosters accountability and support, which are crucial for spiritual maturity and overcoming sin.

The Cost of Discipleship
Following Christ may require giving up practices, relationships, or possessions that are contrary to His teachings. This can be challenging but is essential for genuine discipleship.

The Witness of a Transformed Life
The public confession and renunciation of sin serve as a powerful testimony to others of the transformative power of the Gospel.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the act of confession reveal about the believers' understanding of sin and repentance in Acts 19:18?

2. How can the practice of confessing sins to one another, as seen in James 5:16, be implemented in a modern church setting?

3. In what ways does renouncing past sinful practices demonstrate a commitment to Christ, and how can this be applied in our lives today?

4. How does the community of believers play a role in supporting individuals who are confessing and turning away from sin?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to give up something significant to follow Christ. How did this experience impact your faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

James 5:16
This verse emphasizes the importance of confessing sins to one another and praying for each other for healing, highlighting the communal aspect of confession.

1 John 1:9
This passage assures believers that if they confess their sins, God is faithful and just to forgive and purify them, reinforcing the promise of forgiveness upon confession.

Matthew 3:6
Describes people confessing their sins and being baptized by John the Baptist, showing a pattern of confession as part of repentance.

Proverbs 28:13
Warns that concealing sins leads to no prosperity, but confessing and renouncing them brings mercy, aligning with the actions of the believers in Ephesus.