The Book of Acts

                                         

Paul Ministers in Ephesus ... Acts 19:8-22 _NLT

“Then Paul went to the synagogue and preached boldly for the next three months, arguing persuasively about the Kingdom of God.” - Acts 19:8

            Paul’s preaching in the synagogue in Ephesus was the longest he was ever allowed to plead his  case in a synagogue. While there were those who saw the light in what he was saying, some were stubborn. Those individuals rejected his message and even began speaking out against “the Way”. Paul left and began speaking in a lecture hall at a school in the city. Historically, halls of this nature were used in the morning hours to teach philosophy. No one attended school or for that matter even worked during the peak of the day (11 am to 4 pm) because that was the hottest part of the day. The workers came to the hall during those hours to hear Paul preach.

                  The province of Asia, as shown on the map at the top of the page, refers to Asia Minor or modern day Turkey. Paul’s ministry touched souls in that entire region, not just because of his teaching, but also because of the converts who passed what they had learned on to others. Passing information along by word of mouth can be very effective, especially if the person is known to you. Then it would be my speculation that they more than likely know you can be trusted and that what you’re saying is true. 

                  Luke relays an incident regarding the seven sons of Sceva, who happened to be a leading priest in the area. They thought it was wise to attempt to cast out demons “in the name of Jesus, whom Paul preaches”. Invoking the name of Jesus without knowing him personally can be a problem for you and so it was for the seven sons. The demon challenged them by saying he knew Paul and Jesus, but didn’t know who they were. The demon then pounced on the sons and beat them up, sending them fleeing to their home naked and battered. Demons are not to be trifled with. You must be in tune with the Lord and with the Holy Spirit and feel a certain calling to take on a ministry such as that.

                  The power of God was so great when Paul preached that even touching the sick or demon possessed with an article of clothing worn by the apostle brought about healing. Luke may have mentioned this to draw a parallel between the touching of the hem of Jesus cloak ^{(Luke 8:44)} and Peter’s shadow bringing about the healing of the sick ^{(Acts 5:15)}. It is to emphasize God’s power instead of the power in clothing or a shadow. God can use whatever He wishes to bring about a supernatural miracle. Such miracles brought a solemn fear across the land. There was a profound reverence for Jesus because of the the sons of Sceva event. It was at that point quite obvious that not just anyone could perform miracles, but rather someone in tune with God and His Holy Spirit, such as Paul and Peter. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His name & for His glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources: The Life Application Study Bible; Expositor's Bible Commentary (Abridged Edition): New Testament, Copyright 2004.