◄ Acts 19 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary The Holy Spirit Received at Ephesus Acts 19 offers a compelling portrait of the Gospel's transformative power, as well as the disturbances it can arouse. It shows us that the journey of faith involves not only receiving the Gospel and witnessing miracles, but also facing conflict and misunderstanding. As we navigate our personal journeys, may we remain steadfast and courageous like Paul, mindful of the Holy Spirit's guidance, and cognizant of the authority that comes from faith in Jesus. Verses 1-7: Baptism in the Name of the Lord Jesus Paul encounters some disciples in Ephesus who only know John's baptism. After explaining the Holy Spirit to them, he baptizes them in the name of Jesus, and they speak in tongues and prophesy. Verses 8-10: Teaching in the Synagogue and the Lecture Hall Paul speaks boldly in the synagogue for three months, but faces opposition and slander. He moves to the lecture hall of Tyrannus, where he teaches daily for two years, reaching Jews and Greeks across Asia. Verses 11-20: Extraordinary Miracles and The Seven Sons of Sceva God performs extraordinary miracles through Paul. Jewish exorcists, including the seven sons of Sceva, try to invoke Jesus' name to cast out evil spirits, but are overpowered and publicly shamed by the spirits. This event leads many to believe, confess their sins, and renounce magic. Verses 21-41: The Riot in Ephesus Demetrius, a silversmith crafting Artemis shrines, stirs up fellow artisans against Paul, fearing loss of trade. The city falls into confusion, with people shouting praises to Artemis. The town clerk eventually disperses the crowd, affirming the legality of Paul's activities and the official channels for grievances. 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. 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). 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 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. Bible Study 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? 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 story 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. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions