◄ Acts 19 ►
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The Holy Spirit Received at Ephesus (Acts 10:44–48) 1While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul passed through the interiora and came to Ephesus. There he found some disciples 2and asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you became believers?” “No,” they answered, “we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” 3“Into what, then, were you baptized?” Paul asked. “The baptism of John,” they replied. 4Paul explained: “John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the One coming after him, that is, in Jesus.” 5On hearing this, they were baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. 6And when Paul laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied. 7There were about twelve men in all. Paul Ministers in Ephesus (Ephesians 1:1–2; Revelation 2:1–7) 8Then Paul went into the synagogue and spoke boldly there for three months, arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God. 9But when some of them stubbornly refused to believe and publicly maligned the Way, Paul took his disciples and left the synagogue to conduct daily discussions in the lecture hall of Tyrannus. 10This continued for two years, so that everyone who lived in the province of Asia,b Jews and Greeks alike, heard the word of the Lord. 11God did extraordinary miracles through the hands of Paul, 12so that even handkerchiefsc and aprons that had touched him were taken to the sick, and the diseases and evil spirits left them. Seven Sons of Sceva 13Now there were some itinerant Jewish exorcists who tried to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those with evil spirits. They would say, “I command you by Jesus, whom Paul proclaims.” 14Seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, were doing this. 15But one day the evil spirit responded, “Jesus I know, and I know about Paul, but who are you?” 16Then the man with the evil spirit jumped on them and overpowered them all. The attack was so violent that they ran out of the house naked and wounded. 17This became known to all the Jews and Greeks living in Ephesus, and fear came over all of them. So the name of the Lord Jesus was held in high honor. 18Many who had believed now came forward, confessing and disclosing their deeds. 19And a number of those who had practiced magic arts brought their books and burned them in front of everyone. When the value of the books was calculated, the total came to fifty thousand drachmas.d 20So the word of the Lord powerfully continued to spread and prevail. The Riot in Ephesus 21After these things had happened, Paul resolved in the Spirite to go to Jerusalem, passing through Macedonia and Achaia. “After I have been there,” he said, “I must see Rome as well.” 22He sent two of his helpers, Timothy and Erastus, to Macedonia, while he stayed for a time in the province of Asia. 23About that time there arose a great disturbancef about the Way. 24It began with a silversmith named Demetrius who made silver shrines of Artemis, bringing much businessg to the craftsmen. 25Demetrius assembled the craftsmen, along with the workmen in related trades. “Men,” he said, “you know that this business is our source of prosperity. 26And you can see and hear that not only in Ephesus, but in nearly the whole province of Asia, this Paul has persuaded a great number of people to turn away. He says that man-made gods are no gods at all. 27There is danger not only that our business will fall into disrepute, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will be discredited and her majesty deposed—she who is worshiped by all the province of Asia and the whole world.” 28When the men heard this, they were enraged and began shouting, “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!” 29Soon the whole city was in disarray. They rushed together into the theatre, dragging with them Gaius and Aristarchus, Paul’s traveling companions from Macedonia. 30Paul wanted to go before the assembly, but the disciples would not allow him. 31Even some of Paul’s friends who were officials of the province of Asiah sent word to him, begging him not to venture into the theatre. 32Meanwhile the assembly was in turmoil. Some were shouting one thing and some another, and most of them did not even know why they were there. 33The Jews in the crowd pushed Alexander forward to explain himself, and he motioned for silence so he could make his defense to the people. 34But when they realized that he was a Jew, they all shouted in unison for about two hours: “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!” 35Finally the city clerk quieted the crowd and declared, “Men of Ephesus, doesn’t everyone know that the city of Ephesus is guardian of the temple of the great Artemis and of her image, which fell from heaven? 36Since these things are undeniable, you ought to be calm and not do anything rash. 37For you have brought these men here, though they have neither robbed our temple nor blasphemed our goddess. 38So 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. 39But if you are seeking anything beyond this, it must be settled in a legal assembly. 40For we are in jeopardy of being charged with rioting for today’s events, and we have no justification to account for this commotion.” 41After he had said this, he dismissed the assembly. Footnotes: 1 a Or the highland 10 b Literally in Asia; Asia was a Roman province in what is now western Turkey; similarly in verses 22, 26, 27, and 31. 12 c Greek soudaria 19 d Or fifty thousand pieces of silver. A drachma was a silver coin worth about one day’s wages. 21 e Or resolved in spirit 23 f Literally there arose no little disturbance 24 g Literally bringing no little business 31 h Or friends who were Asiarchs Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Acts 19 Summary The Holy Spirit Received at Ephesus Verses 19:1–7 – Twelve Disciples in Ephesus Paul meets about twelve men who knew only “John’s baptism.” After hearing the full gospel, they are baptized “into the name of the Lord Jesus” and, when Paul lays hands on them, “the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied” (v. 5–6). Verses 19:8–10 – Bold Teaching and the School of Tyrannus For three months Paul teaches in the synagogue. Some grow stubborn, so he withdraws with the disciples to the lecture hall of Tyrannus, reasoning daily for two years. “All who lived in Asia heard the word of the Lord” (v. 10). Verses 19:11–12 – Extraordinary Miracles “God did extraordinary miracles through Paul,” even cloths that touched him cured diseases and expelled demons (v. 11–12). Verses 19:13–17 – The Failed Exorcists Seven sons of a Jewish chief priest named Sceva try to invoke “Jesus, whom Paul preaches” over a demon. The evil spirit answers, “Jesus I know, and I know about Paul, but who are you?” The possessed man overpowers them, leaving them wounded and naked (v. 15–16). Fear falls on Ephesus, and “the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified” (v. 17). Verses 19:18–20 – Confession and Burning of Magic Scrolls New believers publicly confess their deeds and burn occult parchments worth fifty thousand drachmas. “So the word of the Lord continued to increase and prevail mightily” (v. 20). Verses 19:21–22 – Future Plans Paul feels led “in the Spirit” to go through Macedonia and Achaia, then Jerusalem, saying, “After I have been there, I must also see Rome” (v. 21). He sends Timothy and Erastus ahead. Verses 19:23–41 – Riot in Ephesus A silversmith, Demetrius, stirs fellow craftsmen, worried that Paul’s message endangers sales of Artemis shrines. The city crowds into the theater shouting, “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!” (v. 28). The town clerk calms them, warning the assembly could be charged with rioting. The mob disperses. Acts 19 encapsulates Paul's ministry in Ephesus marked by transformative teaching, miracles, and confrontations with both Jewish exorcists and pagan silversmiths. It is a chapter replete with dynamic shifts—where faith is deepened, false authority is revealed, and the name of Jesus stirs both transformation and tumult. Background and Setting • Ephesus sat on the Aegean coast of Asia Minor, boasting a population near 250,000. Its harbor, theater (seating about 24,000), and the massive Temple of Artemis made it a commercial and religious powerhouse. • The temple (one of the ancient Seven Wonders) drew pilgrims, merchants, and artisans who crafted small silver replicas—precisely the trade threatened by Paul’s gospel. • Luke shows the gospel confronting both spiritual darkness (magic, demons) and economic idolatry. The Filling of the Spirit (19:1–7) 1. The twelve disciples represent sincere seekers with incomplete knowledge. They had followed John’s call to repentance (Matthew 3:11) but not yet heard of Jesus’ finished work. 2. Their rebaptism underscores that faith in Jesus, not mere ritual, brings new life (Acts 2:38; 10:48). 3. The Spirit’s outward signs—tongues and prophecy—echo Pentecost (Acts 2) and Caesarea (Acts 10), showing one gospel for Jew and Gentile alike. The School of Tyrannus and Everyday Discipleship • Ancient Western texts add that Paul taught from the fifth to the tenth hour (11 a.m.–4 p.m.), a hot siesta time when the hall was vacant. Paul likely worked mornings at tentmaking (Acts 20:34), then taught. • Two years of daily instruction produced workers who later spread the gospel to Colossae, Laodicea, Smyrna, Pergamum, and beyond (Revelation 2–3). • Colossians 1:6, 7 hints at fruit from this period: Epaphras carried the message home. Miracles of Extraordinary Power (19:11–12) • Handkerchiefs and aprons (literally sweat-cloths and work aprons) show God’s power flowing through ordinary items used in Paul’s manual labor—no superstition, just grace (cf. Luke 8:44; Acts 5:15). • Luke stresses that “God did” the miracles; Paul is merely the channel. The miracles validate the message (Hebrews 2:4). Confronting Counterfeit Spirituality (19:13–17) 1. The sons of Sceva treat the name of Jesus like a magic formula. Scripture warns against empty ritual (Matthew 7:22–23). 2. The demon’s response exposes superficial religion: knowing about Jesus is not the same as knowing Him (James 2:19). 3. Public fear and respect for Jesus’ name mirror Philippians 2:9–11—His name is above every name. Repentance and the Burning of Scrolls (19:18–20) • Fifty thousand drachmas roughly equals 135 years of wages for a laborer. Burning the scrolls shows genuine turning from darkness to light (2 Corinthians 6:14). • No attempt is made to sell the books; believers choose financial loss over compromise (Luke 9:25). • Result: “the word of the Lord continued to increase,” a refrain seen throughout Acts (6:7; 12:24). Economic Idolatry Exposed (19:23–41) 1. Demetrius’ speech reveals the real god at stake—profit (1 Timothy 6:10). 2. Idolatry often marches with civic pride and cultural identity; challenging it can trigger intense backlash (John 3:19–20). 3. Paul’s companions, Gaius and Aristarchus, are seized, illustrating the cost of discipleship (Matthew 5:11–12). 4. The town clerk’s appeal to Roman law shows God using secular authority to protect His people (Acts 18:14–16; Romans 13:1–4). Archaeological Insights: Ephesus • Excavations uncovered the great theater exactly as Luke describes; its acoustics easily carry a crowd’s chant. • Inscriptions honor Artemis as “Queen of Heaven” and “Savior,” titles Paul applies to Jesus (1 Timothy 2:3). • The temple’s foundations still measure 425 × 220 feet, confirming the city clerk’s claim that Artemis’ image had “fallen from heaven” (v. 35) was bound up with local legend. • A first-century inscription lists “Asiarchs,” wealthy officials who sponsor games; Luke notes some were Paul’s friends (v. 31), showing the gospel’s reach into high society. Key Themes for Today • Full Gospel: Knowing about Jesus is not enough; personal faith and the Spirit’s presence are essential. • Everyday Ministry: Paul leveraged a rented hall and midday hours—proof that God works through simple, steady teaching. • True Power vs. Counterfeit: The name of Jesus is not a magic charm; authority comes from relationship. • Costly Repentance: Genuine turning to Christ may require burning bridges to former life, even at high personal cost. • Idolatry of Wealth: The love of money can riot against the gospel; believers must guard their hearts (Matthew 6:24). • God’s Sovereign Protection: From extraordinary miracles to a calm town clerk, the Lord directs events for the advance of His word (Proverbs 21:1). Connections Across Scripture • Acts 19:6 ↔ Acts 2:4; 10:44–46 — same Spirit, same evidence. • Acts 19:11–12 ↔ 2 Kings 13:21; Mark 5:27–29 — God’s power mediated through unusual means. • Acts 19:15 ↔ Luke 4:34; James 2:19 — demons recognize true authority. • Acts 19:20 ↔ Isaiah 55:11 — God’s word never fails. • Acts 19:21 ↔ Romans 1:10–15 — Paul’s longing to visit Rome. • Acts 19:35–40 ↔ Acts 17:6–8 — charges of disturbing peace follow the gospel, yet God prevails. Practical Applications 1. Seek full understanding of the gospel—don’t settle for partial truth. 2. Open your home, office, or local café as today’s “hall of Tyrannus.” God multiplies faithful, daily efforts. 3. Guard against treating spiritual practices mechanically; foster a living walk with Jesus. 4. If past practices or possessions contradict new life in Christ, remove them decisively. 5. Hold possessions loosely; treasure Christ supremely. 6. Trust God’s providence amid opposition; He can turn even civic officials into unexpected allies. Conclusion Acts 19 shows the unstoppable word of God confronting spiritual darkness, personal sin, and societal idols—transforming individuals, reshaping a city, and setting the stage for the gospel to reach Rome itself. Connections to Additional Scriptures The Role of the Holy Spirit John 14:26, Acts 1:8 The Authority of Jesus' Name Philippians 2:9-11, Mark 16:17 Perseverance in Ministry 2 Timothy 4:2, Galatians 6:9 Impact of the Gospel Romans 1:16, Matthew 5:13-16 Teaching Points The Baptism of the Holy Spirit Acts 19:1-7 describes how Paul encounters disciples in Ephesus who had only received John's baptism. Paul explains the necessity of believing in Jesus and baptizes them in His name, after which they receive the Holy Spirit. This highlights the importance of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. The Power of the Name of Jesus In Acts 19:11-20, God performs extraordinary miracles through Paul, including healing the sick and casting out evil spirits. The failed attempt by the sons of Sceva to use Jesus' name without true faith underscores the authority and power inherent in Jesus' name when used by those who truly believe. The Impact of the Gospel on Society Acts 19:23-41 details the uproar caused by the silversmiths who profited from idol-making. The spread of the gospel threatened their business, demonstrating how the message of Christ can disrupt societal norms and challenge economic systems based on idolatry. Perseverance in Ministry Despite opposition, Paul continues to preach and teach for over two years in Ephesus (Acts 19:8-10), showing the importance of perseverance and dedication in ministry. Practical Applications Seek the Fullness of the Holy Spirit Just as the Ephesian disciples needed the Holy Spirit, we too should seek to be filled with the Spirit to empower our Christian walk and witness. Use the Name of Jesus with Faith Recognize the authority and power in the name of Jesus, and ensure that our use of His name is rooted in genuine faith and relationship with Him. Be Prepared for Opposition Understand that living out and sharing the gospel may lead to opposition, especially when it challenges societal norms or economic interests. Commit to Long-term Ministry Like Paul, be willing to invest time and effort in sharing the gospel and discipling others, even when faced with challenges. People 1. Paul A central figure in the New Testament, Paul is an apostle who travels to Ephesus in Acts 19. He preaches the gospel, performs miracles, and encounters opposition. The Greek name "Παῦλος" (Paulos) is used for Paul. 2. Apollos Although not directly mentioned in Acts 19, Apollos is referenced in the context of the disciples Paul encounters in Ephesus. Apollos had previously taught in Ephesus, and his teachings are part of the background for the events in this chapter. 3. Twelve Disciples Paul meets about twelve men in Ephesus who had received John's baptism. He instructs them about the Holy Spirit, and they are baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 4. Tyrannus Paul uses the lecture hall of Tyrannus to teach daily for two years. The name "Τύραννος" (Tyrannos) suggests a person of some standing, possibly a teacher or philosopher. 5. Sceva A Jewish chief priest whose seven sons attempt to exorcise demons using the name of Jesus. The Greek name "Σκευᾶς" (Skeuas) is used. 6. Seven Sons of Sceva These sons of Sceva try to invoke the name of Jesus to cast out evil spirits but are overpowered by a demon-possessed man. 7. Demetrius A silversmith in Ephesus who makes silver shrines of Artemis. He incites a riot against Paul, fearing the loss of income due to Paul's teachings. The Greek name "Δημήτριος" (Demetrios) is used. 8. Artemis Although not a person, the goddess Artemis is central to the events in Ephesus, as the local economy is heavily tied to her worship. The Greek name "Ἄρτεμις" (Artemis) is used. 9. Alexander A Jew who is pushed forward by the crowd during the riot in Ephesus. He attempts to make a defense but is drowned out by the crowd. The Greek name "Ἀλέξανδρος" (Alexandros) is used. 10. Gaius and Aristarchus Companions of Paul who are seized by the mob during the riot. Aristarchus is from Macedonia, and both are described as Paul's traveling companions. Places 1. Ephesus Acts 19:1: "While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul passed through the upper regions and came to Ephesus." Ephesus was a major city in the Roman province of Asia, known for its temple of Artemis. The Greek name for Ephesus is Ἔφεσος (Ephesos). 2. Macedonia Acts 19:21: "After these things had happened, Paul resolved in the Spirit to go to Jerusalem after he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia." Macedonia was a region in Northern Greece. The Greek name is Μακεδονία (Makedonia). 3. Achaia Acts 19:21: "After these things had happened, Paul resolved in the Spirit to go to Jerusalem after he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia." Achaia was a region in Southern Greece, encompassing cities like Corinth. The Greek name is Ἀχαΐα (Achaia). 4. Asia Acts 19:22: "He sent two of his helpers, Timothy and Erastus, to Macedonia, while he stayed for a time in the province of Asia." In the context of Acts, Asia refers to the Roman province in what is now western Turkey. The Greek name is Ἀσία (Asia). 5. Jerusalem Acts 19:21: "After these things had happened, Paul resolved in the Spirit to go to Jerusalem after he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia." Jerusalem is the central city of Jewish worship and early Christian activity. The Greek name is Ἱεροσόλυμα (Hierosolyma). 6. Theater Acts 19:29: "Soon the whole city was in disarray. They rushed together into the theater, dragging with them Gaius and Aristarchus, Paul's traveling companions from Macedonia." The theater in Ephesus was a large venue used for public gatherings. The Greek word for theater is θέατρον (theatron). Events 1. Paul in Ephesus Paul arrives in Ephesus and encounters some disciples. He asks them if they received the Holy Spirit when they believed. They respond that they have not even heard of the Holy Spirit (Acts 19:1-2). 2. Baptism of John vs. Baptism in Jesus' Name Paul explains that John's baptism was a baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus. Upon hearing this, they are baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus (Acts 19:3-5). 3. Receiving the Holy Spirit When Paul lays his hands on them, the Holy Spirit comes upon them, and they begin speaking in tongues and prophesying. There are about twelve men in all (Acts 19:6-7). 4. Paul's Ministry in the Synagogue and Lecture Hall Paul speaks boldly in the synagogue for three months, reasoning and persuading about the kingdom of God. When some become obstinate, he withdraws and takes the disciples with him, reasoning daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus for two years (Acts 19:8-10). 5. Miracles through Paul God performs extraordinary miracles through Paul, so that even handkerchiefs and aprons that touched him are taken to the sick, and their illnesses are cured, and evil spirits leave them (Acts 19:11-12). 6. The Sons of Sceva Some itinerant Jewish exorcists attempt to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those with evil spirits, saying, "I adjure you by Jesus, whom Paul proclaims." The evil spirit responds, "Jesus I know, and I know about Paul, but who are you?" The man with the evil spirit overpowers them, and they flee naked and wounded (Acts 19:13-16). 7. Fear and Reverence for the Name of Jesus This event becomes known to all Jews and Greeks living in Ephesus, and fear falls upon them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus is held in high honor (Acts 19:17). 8. Confession and Burning of Sorcery Scrolls Many who had practiced sorcery bring their scrolls together and burn them publicly. The value of the scrolls is calculated to be fifty thousand drachmas (Acts 19:18-19). 9. The Word of the Lord Grows The word of the Lord continues to grow and prevail mightily (Acts 19:20). 10. Paul's Plans to Travel Paul decides to go to Jerusalem, passing through Macedonia and Achaia, and then plans to visit Rome. He sends Timothy and Erastus to Macedonia while he stays in Asia for a while (Acts 19:21-22). 11. The Riot in Ephesus A silversmith named Demetrius, who makes silver shrines of Artemis, stirs up a riot against Paul, claiming that his preaching endangers their trade and the temple of the great goddess Artemis (Acts 19:23-27). 12. The City in Uproar The city is filled with confusion, and they rush into the theater, dragging along Gaius and Aristarchus, Paul's traveling companions. Paul wants to appear before the crowd, but the disciples prevent him (Acts 19:28-30). 13. The Town Clerk's Intervention The town clerk quiets the crowd, stating that the men have neither robbed temples nor blasphemed their goddess. He advises that if Demetrius has a grievance, the courts are open, and there are proconsuls. He warns against being charged with rioting (Acts 19:35-41). Lessons from Acts 19 1. The Power of the Holy Spirit In Acts 19, we see the transformative power of the Holy Spirit at work. When Paul lays his hands on the disciples in Ephesus, they receive the Holy Spirit and begin speaking in tongues and prophesying. This event reminds us of the promise in Acts 1:8, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you." The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live boldly and share the Gospel with confidence. 2. The Importance of Baptism Paul encounters some disciples who had only received John's baptism. He explains the necessity of being baptized in the name of Jesus, and they are baptized anew. This highlights the importance of baptism as a public declaration of faith and a step of obedience in following Christ. As Jesus commanded in Matthew 28:19, "Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." 3. Bold Proclamation of the Gospel Paul's time in Ephesus is marked by bold preaching and teaching. He spends three months in the synagogue, reasoning and persuading about the kingdom of God. His dedication to sharing the Gospel, even in the face of opposition, is a powerful example for us. As Romans 1:16 states, "I am not ashamed of the Gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes." 4. The Reality of Spiritual Warfare Acts 19 reveals the reality of spiritual warfare when some itinerant Jewish exorcists attempt to invoke the name of Jesus without truly knowing Him. The evil spirit overpowers them, demonstrating that spiritual authority comes from a genuine relationship with Christ. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world's darkness." 5. The Transformative Power of Repentance When the Ephesians witness the power of God, many who practiced sorcery confess their deeds and burn their scrolls publicly. This act of repentance shows the transformative power of turning away from sin and towards God. As 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" 6. The Spread of the Gospel The Word of the Lord spreads widely and grows in power throughout Ephesus. This growth is a testament to the effectiveness of faithful witness and the work of the Holy Spirit. Acts 19:20 captures this beautifully: "So the word of the Lord powerfully continued to spread and prevail." It encourages us to trust in God's ability to reach hearts and transform lives. 7. The Cost of Discipleship Paul's ministry in Ephesus is not without challenges. The silversmiths, led by Demetrius, incite a riot because their livelihood is threatened by the spread of Christianity. This reminds us that following Christ may come with a cost, but the eternal rewards far outweigh any temporary hardships. As Jesus said in Matthew 16:24, "If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me." 8. The Role of Community in Faith Paul's interactions with the disciples in Ephesus highlight the importance of community in the Christian faith. He spends time teaching and encouraging them, demonstrating the value of fellowship and mutual support. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us, "And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another." 9. The Sovereignty of God Despite the chaos and opposition, God's purposes prevail in Ephesus. The Gospel continues to spread, and many come to faith. This reminds us of God's sovereignty and His ability to work all things for good, as Romans 8:28 assures us, "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose." 10. The Eternal Impact of Faithful Ministry Paul's ministry in Ephesus leaves a lasting impact, with the church there becoming a significant center for early Christianity. This encourages us to remain faithful in our own ministries, trusting that God can use our efforts for His eternal purposes. As 1 Corinthians 15:58 exhorts, "Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." Topics 1. Paul in Ephesus and the Holy Spirit (Acts 19:1-7) Paul encounters disciples in Ephesus who had not received the Holy Spirit. He asks them, "Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you became believers?" (Acts 19:2). They had only received John's baptism. Paul explains the difference and baptizes them in the name of the Lord Jesus, after which they receive the Holy Spirit, evidenced by speaking in tongues and prophesying. The Greek term for "Holy Spirit" is "Ἅγιον Πνεῦμα" (Hagion Pneuma). 2. Paul's Ministry in Ephesus (Acts 19:8-10) Paul preaches boldly in the synagogue for three months, reasoning and persuading about the kingdom of God. When some become obstinate, he moves to the lecture hall of Tyrannus, continuing his ministry for two years. The Greek word for "reasoning" is "διαλέγομαι" (dialegomai), indicating a dialogue or discussion. 3. Miracles by the Hands of Paul (Acts 19:11-12) God performs extraordinary miracles through Paul, such that even handkerchiefs and aprons that touched him were taken to the sick, and their illnesses were cured. The Greek word for "miracles" is "δυνάμεις" (dynameis), meaning powerful deeds or works. 4. The Sons of Sceva (Acts 19:13-16) Jewish exorcists attempt to invoke the name of Jesus over those with evil spirits, saying, "I adjure you by Jesus, whom Paul proclaims" (Acts 19:13). The evil spirit recognizes Jesus and Paul but overpowers the exorcists. The Greek term for "adjure" is "ὁρκίζω" (horkizō), meaning to solemnly charge or command. 5. The Fear of the Lord and Confession (Acts 19:17-20) The incident with the sons of Sceva becomes known, and fear falls on the people. Many believers confess and disclose their practices, and those who practiced magic bring their books to be burned. The Greek word for "fear" is "φόβος" (phobos), indicating reverence or awe. 6. The Riot in Ephesus (Acts 19:21-41) A silversmith named Demetrius, concerned about the decline in idol-making business due to Paul's teachings, incites a riot. The crowd shouts, "Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!" (Acts 19:28). The Greek term for "riot" is "θορυβέω" (thorybeō), meaning to cause an uproar or disturbance. The city clerk eventually calms the crowd, emphasizing lawful assembly. Themes 1. The Power of the Holy Spirit Acts 19 begins with Paul encountering disciples in Ephesus who had not received the Holy Spirit. Upon learning this, Paul baptizes them in the name of the Lord Jesus, and they receive the Holy Spirit, speaking in tongues and prophesying (Acts 19:6). This theme emphasizes the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, which is a central tenet in Christian theology. The Greek word for "Spirit" (πνεῦμα, pneuma) underscores the idea of breath or wind, symbolizing life and divine presence. 2. Baptism and Repentance The chapter highlights the importance of baptism and repentance as foundational steps in the Christian faith. Paul explains to the disciples that John's baptism was one of repentance, but they must believe in Jesus for the full experience of Christian baptism (Acts 19:4-5). This theme underscores the transition from the old covenant to the new covenant in Christ. 3. Miracles and Divine Authority Acts 19:11-12 describes extraordinary miracles performed by Paul, where even handkerchiefs and aprons that touched him were used to heal the sick and cast out evil spirits. This theme illustrates the divine authority granted to the apostles and the power of God working through them. The Greek term for "miracles" (δυνάμεις, dynameis) conveys the idea of mighty works or acts of power. 4. Confrontation with Evil The chapter recounts the account of the seven sons of Sceva, who attempted to invoke the name of Jesus to cast out demons but were overpowered by the evil spirit (Acts 19:13-16). This theme highlights the reality of spiritual warfare and the necessity of genuine faith and authority in Christ to confront evil. 5. The Spread of the Gospel Acts 19:20 states, "So the word of the Lord powerfully continued to spread and prevail." This theme emphasizes the unstoppable nature of the Gospel message and its ability to transform societies. The Greek word for "prevail" (ἰσχύω, ischyō) suggests strength and effectiveness, indicating the Gospel's enduring impact. 6. Idolatry and True Worship The chapter concludes with a riot in Ephesus instigated by silversmiths who profited from making idols of Artemis (Acts 19:23-41). This theme contrasts the futility of idolatry with the call to worship the one true God. The Greek term for "idols" (εἴδωλα, eidōla) refers to false gods or images, underscoring the emptiness of worshiping anything other than God. 7. Perseverance in Ministry Throughout Acts 19, Paul demonstrates perseverance in his ministry despite opposition and challenges. He spends two years in Ephesus, teaching and spreading the Gospel (Acts 19:8-10). This theme highlights the importance of steadfastness and dedication in fulfilling God's calling. Prayer Points Pray for a fresh infilling of the Holy Spirit to empower your life and ministry. Ask God for boldness to use the name of Jesus with faith and authority. Pray for strength and perseverance in the face of opposition to the gospel. Seek God's guidance in making a lasting impact in your community through the gospel. May this study of Acts 19 inspire and equip you to live out your faith with power and conviction, trusting in the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Acts 19:2–6, how credible is the claim that believers who were already baptized needed a second baptism for the Holy Spirit, and why wouldn’t the first baptism suffice? 2. In Acts 19:11–12, how scientifically plausible is it that handkerchiefs and aprons taken from Paul had healing power? 3. In Acts 19:13–16, what evidence supports or undermines the historical accuracy of the dramatic encounter where the evil spirit attacks the sons of Sceva? 4. Acts 19:19 records believers burning magic scrolls worth 50,000 silver coins; how historically or economically realistic is such a massive bonfire of valuable items? 5. Could the riot and shift in worship in Acts 19:23–41 realistically occur, or does it conflict with historical and archaeological evidence about Ephesus? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does the baptism of the disciples in Ephesus teach us about the significance of the Holy Spirit in our faith journey? 2. How does Paul's shift from the synagogue to the lecture hall of Tyrannus demonstrate adaptability in ministry? 3. In what ways does the account of the seven sons of Sceva warn against the misuse of Jesus' name? 4. How did Paul's miracles validate his message in Ephesus? 5. How does the reaction to the Gospel in Ephesus mirror responses we might see in our own communities today? 6. What lessons can we draw from Demetrius's response to the spread of Christianity? 7. How does the town clerk's intervention provide insight into handling conflicts and misunderstandings? 8. What does the riot in Ephesus teach us about the potential societal impacts of the Gospel message? 9. How can we prepare for and respond to opposition and conflict in our faith journeys? 10. How does this chapter highlight the importance of discernment in matters of faith and spiritual power? 11. What lessons can we learn about evangelism from Paul's time teaching in the lecture hall of Tyrannus? 12. How does this chapter reflect the tension between spiritual transformation and economic interests? 13. How can we distinguish between genuine spiritual authority and counterfeit claims, as illustrated in the case of the sons of Sceva? 14. How does Acts 19 inform our understanding of the relationship between faith and public order? 15. How does this chapter challenge us to consider the intersection of faith and cultural traditions? 16. How can we maintain the integrity of our faith when faced with personal and societal pressures? 17. How does Paul's journey inspire us to persist in our mission despite adversity? 18. How does the account of the Ephesian disciples deepen our understanding of the need for continual learning in our faith journey? 19. How can we respond when our faith practices are misunderstood or misrepresented, as was Paul's teaching in Ephesus? 20. What does the silversmiths' reaction to the Gospel teach us about the potential resistance to faith transformation in a society? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions