BIBLE IN TEN

Acts 19:40

 Thursday, 31 August 2023
 
“For we are in danger of being called in question for today’s uproar, there being no reason which we may give to account for this disorderly gathering.” Acts 19:40
 
The text more literally reads, “For also we are in danger of being accused of insurrection concerning today. There being no cause about which we will be able to give a reason concerning this conspiracy” (CG).
 
The recorder at Ephesus made his statement and then told those listening that if they had any grievance, they should take it up in a lawful assembly. That being said, it implies that the gathering was unlawfully assembled. He confirms that now, beginning with, “For also we.”
 
He includes himself in the matter at hand. He is an official in the city, the city has gone into an uproar, and he has entered the place where it occurred. He could, therefore, potentially be considered a part of the uproar. As such, he continues that they, including him, “are in danger.”
 
The authority of Rome was not to be questioned. Unlawful assemblies could be considered a lack of control. Any lack of control over the people could become a movement. Any movement could become a threat to the power of the empire. Therefore, such things were considered intolerable. In this case, he says the result could be “of being accused of insurrection concerning today.”
 
The recorder’s words now bring in a possible ironic turn of events that could result from this mob. The word he translated as “being accused” is the same word just seen in 19:38. The entire assembly, including Demetrius and those gathered with him, are being reminded that they may end up as defendants and not plaintiffs.
 
If so, the results might be even worse than they could imagine. They had almost organized a lynching, but it might be they who were to be executed. Albert Barnes notes –
 
“Popular commotions were justly dreaded by the Roman government; and such an assembly as this, convened without any good cause, would not escape their notice. There was a Roman law which made it capital for anyone to be engaged in promoting a riot. ‘He who raises a mob, let him be punished with death.’”
 
Even if this didn't occur, the privileges of the city could be restricted, such as we have today with curfews and the like. The Romans did not appreciate such disobedience. The recorder was fully aware of this and next says, “There being no cause about which we will be able to give a reason.”
 
In other words, if the authorities heard of this gathering and came to Ephesus, there would be a hearing to determine what occurred. Even if the exact reason was discovered, which has already been described by Luke, it would not be a valid reason for the uproar. Somebody would be held accountable, and others would probably be implicated as well “concerning this conspiracy.”
 
In holding a hearing and finding those responsible, it is probable that charges would be made. If so, and it was quite possible under Roman law, there would be no reasonable defense. The word translated as “conspiracy” is sustrophé - a twisting together, hence a conspiracy. It speaks of anything rolled or twisted into a mass. In this case, a mass of people with an underlying sense of confusion, and thus a mob. The word is found only here and in Acts 23:12.
 
Life application: The words and actions of the recorder in this section of Acts could be compared with Gamaliel of the Sanhedrin in Acts 5. He was able to calm the crowd and use a logical defense of the situation at hand –
 
Gamaliel: “Men of Israel” / logical defense / conclusion – fighting against God.
Recorder: “Men of Ephesus” / logical defense / conclusion – fighting against Roman authority.
 
As such, there is a palpable irony between the two accounts. Gamaliel said that if the Way was of human origin, it would fade away, but if it was of God, it would endure. In this account, the recorder says that the whole world was aware of the divine source of their religion, and yet it eventually faded away.
 
The point of this is that in the world of faithful Christians, there are – at times – moments where it seems all is lost, and the faith is being overcome. This was the state of things several times in vast swaths of Christian-controlled areas. Wars seemed to threaten the very existence of the faith.
 
Likewise, in the world today, there is so much apostasy from the true faith that it seems as if those who are properly following the word of God are being pushed out by those who have completely departed from it. But this should not concern us. We have been told, in advance, that this time would come.
 
Eventually, the Lord will descend, and His faithful will be gathered to Him. He is not going to allow His faithful followers to be completely overwhelmed before that day comes. Until then, He expects us to hold fast to Him and His word, keep sharing the good news about what He has done, and remain encouraged even in a world filled with discouragement. Let us do so because a great Day lies ahead for those who are His faithful followers.
 
Heavenly Father, thank You for the sure hope we possess. Our faith is not built on fantasy but on the truth of who You are and what You have done to bring us back to Yourself. As the world devolves around us, we can remain confident and cheerful that there is an end to wickedness. A new and glorious Day lies ahead. May that Day be soon! Amen.

Acts 19:39

Wednesday, 30 August 2023
 
“But if you have any other inquiry to make, it shall be determined in the lawful assembly. Acts 19:39
 
The words read, “If, however, you seek anything beyond, it will be solved in the lawful assembly” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, the recorder told the crowd what was proper concerning the matter they were gathered for and excited about. He continues his words to them now, saying, “If, however, you seek anything beyond.”
 
The word peran, or beyond, signifies over, on the other side, etc. For example, it is used when saying beyond the Jordan, beyond the sea, to the other side of the sea of Galilee, etc. In this case, the crowd has brought the matter between Demetrius and Paul forward. It was currently at a large gathering in the theater, and it needed to end there. However, he notes if there was anything beyond that point, either in time, place, or concerning the issue, “it will be solved in the lawful assembly.”
 
These words show that the assembly in the theater (ecclesia – verse 19:32) was not an authorized one. Instead, the term was used in a general sense. The clerk here notes that if there was anything that still needed to be addressed, it would have to be in an ecclesia that was obedient to the law. Also, the word translated as “solved” is epiluó. It is a verb giving the sense of unloosening. In other words, the issue at hand is like a tied knot that must be unloosened.
 
This is the job of the appropriate magistrates, not a crowd without authority or knowledge of the legal issues involved. The noun form of the word is found in 2 Peter 1:20, where it says, “knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation.” As for the verb used above, it is only found elsewhere in Mark 4, where it is translated as “explained” –
 
“And with many such parables He spoke the word to them as they were able to hear it. 34 But without a parable He did not speak to them. And when they were alone, He explained all things to His disciples.” Mark 4:33, 34
 
Just as Jesus “unloosened the knot” of the parables he spoke, the prophets of old could not form their own prophecies to unloosen the mind of God. Rather, God spoke through them as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.
 
Likewise, the matter between Demetrius and Paul, if it was not now settled by the recorder, would need to be taken before those who could properly unloosen it.
 
Life application: In seeing the use of the noun form of the word used here, Peter gives us insights into how prophecy is transmitted. The men of God of the past were given the words of God through a process that “unloosened” the mysteries necessary to understand what He is doing in the world concerning the redemptive narrative.
 
If you go on YouTube or some other internet forum and do a search for people who claim prophecy, you will find tens of thousands of people from all religions and all walks of life claiming they have had such secrets revealed to them.
Who are you going to believe? How can you determine if this one or that one is true or not? The Bible lets us know that what we have in it is sufficient for our doctrine, life, and religious practice. As this is so, the implication is that we do not need anything else revealed to us by God. It is easy to say, “That guy is a Hindu, and so his prophecies cannot be true,” but it should be just as clear to us that the people who claim to be Christians and who claim prophecy are also liars.
 
Their words are unnecessary for our walk with the Lord. They can only muddy the waters in which we tread. They cannot be accepted without causing some type of misdirection. Therefore, why listen to them? The plan has been set forth, it has been explained enough so that we have the broad outline we need, and it is sufficient for our time in this life. Be content with that.
 
Lord God, Your word is sufficient. Help us to accept this and to not search for something extra. That has caused too much damage in the church throughout the ages. Cults have sprung up, people have been misdirected, and souls have been lost. May we hold fast to Your word alone as we live out our lives in Your presence. Amen.
 

Acts 19:38

Tuesday, 29 August 2023
 
“Therefore, if Demetrius and his fellow craftsmen have a case against anyone, the courts are open and there are proconsuls. Let them bring charges against one another. Acts 19:38
 
The words read, “Therefore, if indeed Demetrius and those craftsmen with him have a matter with anyone, judicials are held, and there are proconsuls. Let them accuse one another” (CG).
 
The previous words of the recorder were directed to the mob that had seized Gaius and Aristarchus, having brought them to the theater. He now says, “Therefore, if indeed Demetrius.”
 
The recorder is in a position of authority, responsibility, and understanding concerning legal matters. He has carefully described the situation to the crowd. Having done so, he next places the responsibility for any legal issue right back where it belongs, meaning with Demetrius. It was he who began the ruckus in verse 19:25. At that time, he called together “those craftsmen with him.”
 
Demetrius may have initiated the matter, but he had called these others to stand with him and against Paul and his doctrine. The people now gathered had been led as blind sheep to the theater, not even knowing all the facts concerning the matter. The recorder has carefully replaced the entire situation on Demetrius and those with him, questioning if they “have a matter with anyone.”
 
Even more literally, it says, “have a word with anyone.” The word logos, or word, carries with it the idea of a cause, matter, word, speech, analogy, and more. It is a very broad word meaning “reasoning expressed by words” (HELPS Word Studies). In this case, Demetrius had expressed his reasoning for exciting the other craftsmen by words.
 
However, that had almost turned into a riot, a matter of Roman interest and legal prosecution. These people had no valid word against Paul or the disciples with him. Therefore, the recorder is returning the issue back to those who may have a case. If so, he notes that “judicials are held.”
 
It is a word found only once elsewhere in Acts 17:5, agoraios. It signifies “pertaining to the marketplace.” In Acts 17, it was used of the wicked market-loungers who set the crowd in an uproar. In this case, it is obviously a type of court setting. As it is a plural adjective, the closest word to describe it would be “judicials.” It would be the public setting where such grievances were to be brought forward.
 
Once such a case was brought forward to the judicials, the recorder notes that at that place, “there are proconsuls.” Of this, Charles Ellicott notes –
 
“Strictly speaking, there was only one proconsul in each province, and we must therefore assume either that here also the expression is colloquial, or that the assessors (consiliarii) of the proconsul were popularly so described, or that some peculiar combination of circumstances had led to there being two persons at this time at Ephesus clothed with proconsular authority. There are some grounds for adopting the last alternative. Junius Silanus, who was Proconsul of Asia when St. Paul arrived in Ephesus (A.D. 54), had been poisoned by Celer and Helius, the two procurators, at the instigation of Agrippina; and it seems probable that they for a time held a joint proconsular authority.”
 
Whatever the exact situation, it is obvious from the words of the recorder that the people knew and understood what he was saying. The matter was not in their hands, and they had no right to have it adjudicated in the manner that was currently being conducted. Therefore, it should be directed to the Roman authority that was set forth for it. With that, he concludes, saying, “Let them accuse one another.”
 
As in a modern court, an accusation was to be filed. From there, the matter would be handled by the court as each side presented its case or counterargument. Witnesses, if available, would be brought forward. The matter would be handled in the proper legal manner set forth by the Roman Empire.
 
Life application: In this verse, the clerk moved from the concrete to the abstract very smoothly, never mentioning Paul. Instead, he moved the complaint back to where it belonged, which was to Demetrius and his fellow craftsmen.
 
This showed everyone else that they had nothing to argue against. By using the abstract “anyone” it actually means there was nobody to charge Paul because the very person who was the supposed instigator has been shown in the previous verse to have not done anything meriting a complaint. From there, if legal action needed to be filed, it was to be with them.
 
We can learn from this type of thinking. If a complaint arises at work, in the church, in a public setting, or so forth, it is very easy for us to get caught up in the matter, not thinking it through. However, if we can remove ourselves from the rising excitement and think, “What would the authority propose concerning this?”, we may be able to quell the rash thinking before it gets out of control.
 
This assumes that the people are willing to listen. Such is quite often not the case. And even the legal authorities are often so corrupt that a logical presentation means little to them. However, we can at least remove ourselves from the matter and not get caught up in whatever negative arises from it.
 
Learn to think clearly by learning to think independently. The herd mentality will never come to satisfactory results because it is based on a lack of information and unbridled passions, and it is usually led by someone who already had failed to think through the matter clearly.
 
Lord God, too often, a herd mentality exists around us, even in the church. Numbers and might do not necessarily mean that what is being considered is correct. May our thoughts and actions be properly directed to You and by Your word. In this, we will not be misdirected in how we conduct our affairs. Amen.

Acts 19:37

Monday, 28 August 2023
 
“For you have brought these men here who are neither robbers of temples nor blasphemers of your goddess. Acts 19:37
 
The words are more succinct. They literally read, “For you brought these men, neither temple-robbers nor blaspheming your goddess” (CG).
 
The recorder has logically defended why the crowd should calm down, stating that what he spoke was undeniable. Now, because of what he has said, he explains why they must let the people they have been rallying against be left alone, saying, “For you brought these men.”
 
The word translated as you is plural. He is speaking to the crowd first spurred on by Demetrius, accusing them of causing an unnecessary riot and an attack against people who have done no wrong. The people he is referring to are Gaius and Aristarchus, the Macedonians who traveled with Paul, as noted in verse 19:29. They had been seized and brought into the theater. Of them, the recorder begins with, “neither temple-robbers.”
 
It is a single Greek word found only here in the New Testament, hierosulos. It is from two words meaning “sacred” or “holy” and to rob or plunder.  It is used only here in the New Testament. In 2 Corinthians 11:8, Paul writes a similar thought using the word “rob” with the Greek word ekklésia, translated as “churches.” Of this word, Ellicott says –
 
“The corresponding noun for ‘robbing temples,’ or ‘sacrilege,’ is found in inscriptions discovered by Mr. Wood (vi. 1, p. 14) among the ruins of the Temple, as denoting a crime to which the severest penalties were attached.”
 
These men had not done such a thing. But more, the recorder continues with, “nor blaspheming your goddess.” Note the use of the present tense. They had not blasphemed Artemis in the past and were not doing so now. The point of these words is that Paul and those with him could rightly say, “they are not gods which are made with hands,” as was stated in verse 19:26. No act of blasphemy could be ascribed to such a statement.
 
If Paul and his disciples said, “And that includes the false goddess made by hands in the temple of Artemis,” they could be accused of blasphemy. But the recorder has said that it was indisputable that she was not made with hands but had fallen from heaven (verse 19:35). Therefore, they could not be accused of blaspheming her. If she was not made with hands, then the statement ascribed to Paul, and which was then stated by Demetrius in verse 19:26, could not apply to them concerning blasphemy against Artemis.
 
Finally, some texts of the clause say, “our goddess.” Others say, “your goddess.” If the latter is the true original, it could explain why the recorder was so careful to choose his words as he did. It may be that he was convinced that what Paul taught was true, even if he said it was indisputable that the image had fallen from heaven. Those words could have been purposefully chosen to exonerate these men with whom he agreed.
 
Life application: There is the old saying, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” This is a way of saying that when you are in another nation or among another culture, you should adapt your conduct according to the location and culture of those you are visiting. It would be arrogant to assume that you can continue to act in a manner that would be offensive to those whose land you are visiting.
 
For example, whether you agree or disagree with the dress codes for women in an Islamic nation, when you are in such a nation, a visiting woman should wear what is required, or she can expect to be arrested. That is not complicated. If you don’t agree with their dress codes, then you should refrain from visiting.
 
This concept applies to evangelism as well. There are nations that forbid evangelism of their people. Because of this, many missionaries will go to such nations under the guise of working in another job, such as an English translator. The actual reason for going is to be a missionary, but any evangelism is done quietly and usually on an individual basis. If caught, that person is usually aware that it can end in being deported, imprisoned, or worse.
 
If you are going to travel to another nation, it is best to be aware of what you can and cannot do. Sharing the gospel is the highest priority for a believer, but it must be accompanied with tact and diplomacy. It would be highly inappropriate to go to an Islamic nation and begin your evangelism by blaspheming their god. The same is true with going to a Buddhist or Hindu nation. Be sure to know what is allowed and what is not allowed, and then work within that framework as closely as possible without either compromising your own faith or without getting yourself in a real pickle by those with whom you have come to reside.
 
Lord God, help us to know the laws, even in our own lands, concerning how we can evangelize others. It serves no good purpose to be labeled as an outlaw when we share the gospel if that can easily be avoided. So, Lord, give us wisdom and discernment about when to speak, how to speak, and what will be the most effective way of sharing the gospel. To Your glory, we pray. Amen.

Acts19:36

Sunday, 27 August 2023
 
“Therefore, since these things cannot be denied, you ought to be quiet and do nothing rashly. Acts 19:36
 
The words are more closely translated, “Therefore, these things being undeniable, it is necessary for you to be calmed and to do nothing rash” (CG).
 
The recorder in Ephesus just calmed the crowd and spoke to them concerning their goddess Artemis, claiming her image had fallen down from Zeus. Having said that, he next continues, saying, “Therefore, these things being undeniable.”
 
He uses a word found only here in Scripture, anantirrétos. It consists of three parts: a – the negative particle, anti – in place of, and rheo – to speak of. Taken together, they signify indisputable or undeniable. Literally, “cannot be spoken against.”
 
The intent is that Paul had spoken against things made with hands, such as Demetrius’ images. However, the recorder stated that the image of Artemis in the temple was not made with hands. Rather, it had fallen down from Zeus. But Demetrius’ claim from verse 19:26 was against Paul’s words, “they are not gods which are made with hands.”
 
His words indicate that the crowd had been gathered and stirred up under false pretenses. This is because there was no way Paul’s words could overturn what heaven itself had set up. As this was indisputable, how could such ridiculous worries even enter the minds of those in the crowd? Therefore, he next says, “it is necessary for you to be calmed and to do nothing rash.”
 
Because they were gathered based on a false and ridiculous argument, and because ridiculous worries end in decisions that are rash, they should lighten up before something arose that they would regret. In the next verses, he will give sound advice for those who may have a grievance, but the crowd itself had no justification for their almost riotous actions.
 
Life application: Despite properly calming the crowd from taking unjust actions, the words of the recorder were based on a false proposition. He stated that the image of Artemis had fallen down from heaven and that this was indisputable.
 
If the people believed him concerning this, that is fine, but time has not borne out his words. If what he said was true, the temple and the image would still be standing to this day, but it is not. Anyone can make any claim, no matter how ridiculous. Unfortunately, the more trustworthy a person appears, the more he will be heeded, regardless of how inane his argument may be.
 
For example, there are scientists all over the world who are highly respected and who teach that the universe exploded itself into existence. Others teach that man evolved from goo. There is not a single shred of evidence for either of these claims, and yet they are believed by innumerable people.
 
Just because someone in a position of authority makes a claim, it is unwise to accept his words at face value. This applies to those in the ministry as well as the secular world. If someone makes a claim about something from the Bible, you should be well versed enough in Scripture to know whether what he says is true or not, or at least know where to go to check it out.
 
Don’t just believe what you hear. An entire stadium of people believed the recorder’s nonsensical words that an image had fallen down from heaven simply because they were told it was true by someone in authority. Check, think, and verify. These things are important in all aspects of life.
 
Lord God, the word we have been given from You is a self-validating book, filled with sufficient evidence that we can certainly trust its contents. Unfortunately, people still take what it says and manipulate it for various reasons. Help us to be diligent in reading it and being familiar enough with it to know when it is being mishandled. Help us in this, O God, so that our walk with You will be sound and proper. Amen.
 

Acts 19:34

Friday, 25 August 2023
 
But when they found out that he was a Jew, all with one voice cried out for about two hours, “Great is Diana of the Ephesians!” Acts 19:34
 
The words are more closely rendered, “And having recognized that he is a Jew, there was one voice from all over about two hours, crying, ‘Great, the Artemis of Ephesians’” (CG).
 
Alexander was ready to speak, having motioned with his hand before the multitude. However, it now says, “And having recognized that he is a Jew.” The verb is in the present tense. Luke is writing as if it is happening right before our eyes.
 
Unfortunately for Demetrius and Alexander, whether they were in collusion together or not, those who recognized Alexander saw him as a Jew, they saw Paul as a Jew, and so the two were lumped together into the same basket – both as miscreants against their great goddess. As most of the crowd didn’t have any idea why they were there, this means that only some of the people were paying attention to this fact.
 
But to those who understood what was going on, a Jew would have been the same as any other Jew. Those that had heard Paul speak about the futility of idolatry would have remembered that and assumed Alexander held the same beliefs as Paul. Therefore, in their recognition of this fact, “there was one voice from all.”
 
In verse 32, those who gathered had been crying out whatever was on their minds. There was no harmony to their voices. However, they are all brought together into the singular “one voice” as the voice of those who had instigated the gathering began to prevail. Like the united chants for a particular political leader, the crowd was brought into harmony which spanned “over about two hours.”
 
What had started as a gathering of curiosity for most had become a united gathering in support of the original rallying cry. This would have increased the unity of those gathered immensely because they were “crying, ‘Great, the Artemis of Ephesians.’”
 
Being unwilling to listen to a Jew, the crisis was diverted for the Christians. Instead, a general roar of the original cries noted in verse 28 became a united rallying call to the masses. Because Ephesus was where the temple of the goddess Artemis was located, the people had become focused on it as the central purpose of their gathering.
 
Life application: It doesn’t take much to convince a group of people to act in a particular way. Many studies have shown that people will even do unreasonable things simply because a majority of those around them are doing them. It is the herd mindset that can take over anyone who either wants to join in with a cause or who is unwilling to speak out about the incorrect nature of a matter.
 
Quite often, this occurs because people don’t want to look foolish to others. This herd mindset then becomes a cult mindset. Jim Jones understood this and led an entire group of people to Guyana. They faithfully followed his leading, eventually to their own deaths. The same has repeatedly happened throughout history. Think of the cultlike thinking of those during the COVID event in 2021!
To varying degrees, this type of thing occurs in churches all the time. For example, the cult of King James Onlyism demands that only that translation be used. It claims that any other translation is of the devil. This is not an act of faithfulness to the word. If it was, the truth of the matter would be searched out. In searching, the mindset would be dismissed as ridiculous. But it is not. Fear of the leader sets in and control over the congregation is solidified.
 
The same occurs with other erroneous doctrines, moral perversity, etc. Anytime a leader claims something is exclusive to his teaching, it should be carefully considered. It is true that if his teaching is that Jesus is the only way to heaven, then he is teaching what is correct. However, if he teaches that Jesus is the only way to heaven and that can only be realized in, for example, the Church of Christ, it is time to leave that church.
The only way to find out if such things are appropriate or not is to read and know the word. If this is not done, people are setting themselves up for disaster at the hands of others.
 
Thank You, Lord God, for Your precious word. It has been given to us to keep us on the straight and narrow path, and it certainly tells us what that path is. This can be verified in Your word. Help us to get to know this wonderful treasure of safety, security, and grounded hope that You have given to us. Amen.
 

Acts 19:34

Friday, 25 August 2023
 
But when they found out that he was a Jew, all with one voice cried out for about two hours, “Great is Diana of the Ephesians!” Acts 19:34
 
The words are more closely rendered, “And having recognized that he is a Jew, there was one voice from all over about two hours, crying, ‘Great, the Artemis of Ephesians’” (CG).
 
Alexander was ready to speak, having motioned with his hand before the multitude. However, it now says, “And having recognized that he is a Jew.” The verb is in the present tense. Luke is writing as if it is happening right before our eyes.
 
Unfortunately for Demetrius and Alexander, whether they were in collusion together or not, those who recognized Alexander saw him as a Jew, they saw Paul as a Jew, and so the two were lumped together into the same basket – both as miscreants against their great goddess. As most of the crowd didn’t have any idea why they were there, this means that only some of the people were paying attention to this fact.
 
But to those who understood what was going on, a Jew would have been the same as any other Jew. Those that had heard Paul speak about the futility of idolatry would have remembered that and assumed Alexander held the same beliefs as Paul. Therefore, in their recognition of this fact, “there was one voice from all.”
 
In verse 32, those who gathered had been crying out whatever was on their minds. There was no harmony to their voices. However, they are all brought together into the singular “one voice” as the voice of those who had instigated the gathering began to prevail. Like the united chants for a particular political leader, the crowd was brought into harmony which spanned “over about two hours.”
 
What had started as a gathering of curiosity for most had become a united gathering in support of the original rallying cry. This would have increased the unity of those gathered immensely because they were “crying, ‘Great, the Artemis of Ephesians.’”
 
Being unwilling to listen to a Jew, the crisis was diverted for the Christians. Instead, a general roar of the original cries noted in verse 28 became a united rallying call to the masses. Because Ephesus was where the temple of the goddess Artemis was located, the people had become focused on it as the central purpose of their gathering.
 
Life application: It doesn’t take much to convince a group of people to act in a particular way. Many studies have shown that people will even do unreasonable things simply because a majority of those around them are doing them. It is the herd mindset that can take over anyone who either wants to join in with a cause or who is unwilling to speak out about the incorrect nature of a matter.
 
Quite often, this occurs because people don’t want to look foolish to others. This herd mindset then becomes a cult mindset. Jim Jones understood this and led an entire group of people to Guyana. They faithfully followed his leading, eventually to their own deaths. The same has repeatedly happened throughout history. Think of the cultlike thinking of those during the COVID event in 2021!
To varying degrees, this type of thing occurs in churches all the time. For example, the cult of King James Onlyism demands that only that translation be used. It claims that any other translation is of the devil. This is not an act of faithfulness to the word. If it was, the truth of the matter would be searched out. In searching, the mindset would be dismissed as ridiculous. But it is not. Fear of the leader sets in and control over the congregation is solidified.
 
The same occurs with other erroneous doctrines, moral perversity, etc. Anytime a leader claims something is exclusive to his teaching, it should be carefully considered. It is true that if his teaching is that Jesus is the only way to heaven, then he is teaching what is correct. However, if he teaches that Jesus is the only way to heaven and that can only be realized in, for example, the Church of Christ, it is time to leave that church.
The only way to find out if such things are appropriate or not is to read and know the word. If this is not done, people are setting themselves up for disaster at the hands of others.
 
Thank You, Lord God, for Your precious word. It has been given to us to keep us on the straight and narrow path, and it certainly tells us what that path is. This can be verified in Your word. Help us to get to know this wonderful treasure of safety, security, and grounded hope that You have given to us. Amen.

Acts 19:33

Thursday, 24 August 2023
 
And they drew Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward. And Alexander motioned with his hand, and wanted to make his defense to the people. Acts 19:33
 
In the previous verse, Luke noted the confusion of the assembly and that most of the people didn’t even know why they were assembled. With that, it next says, “And they drew Alexander out of the multitude.”
 
This is not the first time the name Alexander has been seen in Scripture, but this is the first time this particular person has been noted. According to Abarim, the name is defined saying –
 
“A curious consequence of the distinction between the nouns ανερ [aner] and ανθρωπος [anthropos] is that the name Alexander does not so much mean Defender of Man(kind), as it is commonly translated, but more so Defence Of The Men. In other words, this name does not so much commemorate mankind’s defense against, say, forces of nature, wild animals or even the gods, but rather our boys from the evil others. The name Alexander does not speak of the betterment of mankind but rather of competition among armies or cultures or systems of governance, and the edge of advantage that the ‘way of Alexander’ has over the other armies and systems of governance.”
 
Of this particular Alexander, it next notes, “the Jews putting him forward.” Rather, being an aorist participle, it reads, “the Jews, having thrust him forward.”
 
It appears that there may have been collusion between the leaders of the rabble and the Jews in attendance. They have shown up in order to act against Paul, just as the silversmiths had. These people, knowing Alexander, and having had him recommended by the Jews to speak against Paul – who was a supposed apostate from Judaism – brought him forward out of the crowd.
 
This Alexander then is quite likely the same guy mentioned in 2 Timothy 4 –
 
“Alexander the metalworker did me a great deal of harm. The Lord will repay him for what he has done. 15 You too should be on your guard against him, because he strongly opposed our message.” 2 Timothy 4:14, 15
 
If it is the same person, the assumption can be made that he had a connection with Demetrius through their trade of working in metals. Therefore, if Demetrius was harmed by the loss of livelihood, Alexander may have suffered as well. Being a Jew who had not received the gospel, that would only increase his desire to see Paul harmed.
 
It may be that this person was on Paul’s mind when he penned his words in Romans 2, but specifically in Romans 2:22 –
 
“Now you, if you call yourself a Jew; if you rely on the law and boast in God; 18 if you know his will and approve of what is superior because you are instructed by the law; 19 if you are convinced that you are a guide for the blind, a light for those who are in the dark, 20 an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of little children, because you have in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth— 21 you, then, who teach others, do you not teach yourself? You who preach against stealing, do you steal? 22 You who say that people should not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? 23 You who boast in the law, do you dishonor God by breaking the law? 24 As it is written: ‘God’s name is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.’” Romans 2:17-24
 
This is speculation, but Paul’s points about various issues stem from the things he had seen, heard, and experienced. This event in Ephesus, along with any other mistreatment by the Jews there, would have stuck in his mind as he wrote out his epistle. As for Alexander now having been thrust forward to speak, it next says, “And Alexander motioned with his hand.”
 
This is the common way one identifies himself as being prepared to speak. It has already been noted several times in Acts, and it will be noted again as Luke’s descriptions continue. Paul will speak before another highly agitated crowd in Acts 21 –
 
“After receiving the commander’s permission, Paul stood on the steps and motioned to the crowd. When they were all silent, he said to them in Aramaic...” Acts 21:40
 
As for Alexander, it next says, “and wanted to make his defense to the people.” Rather, it says, “and wanted to make a defense to the people.” He was not defending his own actions. Instead, he was setting forth an apologeomai, a “compelling defense with sound logic” (HELPS Word Studies). This defense was to be in favor of Demetrius’ accusations against Paul as stated in verses 19:25-27.
 
Life application: The quote from Romans 2 is addressed to the Jew. Paul does this throughout Romans, using the Jew as an example to make points about the law versus grace, etc. This does not mean that the words are for the Jews and that they have no bearing on Gentiles, as if those parts can be cut out of the book when dealing with church doctrine.
 
As stupid as that surely sounds to you, it is not uncommon for people to have this type of theology. They pull out words, verses, and paragraphs and claim they do not apply to those in the church. Hyperdispensationalists will do this, for example, in an attempt to justify their unjustifiably poor doctrine.
 
What Paul writes in his epistles is doctrine for the church. His address to the Jew is a literary device to get people to think an issue through. He is not saying, “Ok, Gentiles don’t need to pay attention for a minute.” Rather, he is saying, “Brethren (Jew and Gentile), pay attention to this point in case someone comes along and brings up this issue about the Jews.”
 
The main point of what Paul is saying is that the law is opposed to grace. The Jews who rely on the law for their righteousness are placing their hope in the wrong place. “Therefore, O church consisting of both Jew and Gentile, put your trust in Jesus Christ and you will be deemed righteous before God.” The Jew is being used as an example in instruction.
 
Stay away from anyone who cannot understand basic context. Your doctrine, and thus your walk before the Lord, will be greatly harmed if your biblical analysis does not rightly consider context.
 
Lord God, You have given us Your precious word to instruct and guide us. And there are many teachers of the word in the world. However, many of them haven’t taken the time to rightly understand it themselves. So, Lord, lead us away from poor teachers. As we read and learn Your word on our own, help illuminate it to us so that we will know when false teachings are presented to us. Amen.
 

Acts 19:32

Wednesday, 23 August 2023
 
Some therefore cried one thing and some another, for the assembly was confused, and most of them did not know why they had come together. Acts 19:32
 
The words more precisely read, “Others, indeed therefore, another thing were crying, for the assembly was in confusion, and the majority knew not for what reason they were assembled” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, the Asiarchs implored Paul to not enter the theater. The reason for that is now stated, saying, “Others, indeed therefore, another thing were crying.” The meaning is as many versions paraphrase. They will say something like, “Some cried one thing and some another.” The intent is that there was utter chaos with people yelling out whatever they thought was going on. Further explaining this, Luke next says, “for the assembly was in confusion.”
 
The word translated as assembly is ecclesia. It is the same word used to describe the church. It comes from ek – out and kaleo – call. Thus, it means a “called out assembly.” In the case of this one, it was not sanctioned by leaders but by miscreants, as will be seen in a few verses.
 
Also, the verb is in the passive voice, “in confusion.” All of the din from the various voices calling out brought the entire gathering into confusion. It was, therefore, a dangerous situation to enter. If Paul entered and started speaking and another voice got the upper hand, Paul’s life could easily be in jeopardy.
 
Paul would be appealing for the gospel’s sake, Demetrius or another would bring up the matter of Artemis and Paul’s diminishing of her supposed glory, and the crowd would be easily swayed. They were in tumult “and the majority knew not for what reason they were assembled.”
 
As this is so, there would be heightened uncertainty and any spark could light a fire in the people’s minds. As such, and knowing this was the state of things, the Asiarchs had appealed to Paul to not get involved in the matter. The crowd was too large and too excited to take such a chance.
 
Life application: The images set forth in this verse are vivid and were certainly provided to Luke by firsthand witnesses. The descriptions are a perfectly apt description of a tumultuous gathering of people.
 
Throughout history, people flock to any large commotion simply to say they were a part of it, even if they have no idea why it was called. It is an excellent description of the term “sheeple.” Individuals are smart. But when brought into crowds, the herd mentality renders them stupid.
 
This is a dangerous situation to join. This is especially so when there are people that may be pushing for a religious or political upheaval. Such occurred on 6 January 2020 in Washington D.C. Government officials were embedded in the crowd to agitate it and to set them up in a hoped-for insurrection. Thus, they could bring charges against the demonstrators and against the sitting president. Such instigators are to be found in almost every such large gathering. So be on your guard and stay away from such crowds.
 
O God, give us wisdom to handle our daily affairs carefully and with reason. May we not get caught up in affairs that could bring a stain upon Your name. Instead, help us to always be wise and discerning as we live out our lives in Your presence. Amen.

Acts 19:31

Tuesday, 22 August 2023
 
Then some of the officials of Asia, who were his friends, sent to him pleading that he would not venture into the theater. Acts 19:31
 
To be more precise, the words read, “And also some of the Asiarchs, being his friends, having sent to him, were imploring not to venture himself into the theater” (CG).  
 
In the previous verse, it noted that Paul wanted to go to the people in the theater but that the disciples would not allow him. That continues now, saying, “And also some of the Asiarchs.” It is a word found only here in Scripture. Vincent’s Word Studies says of them, “These were persons chosen from the province of Asia, on account of their influence and wealth, to preside at the public games and to defray their expenses.”
 
Charles Ellicott adds to this, saying, “The office was an annual one. They were ten in number, and the proconsul nominated one of them as president. Their duties led them now to one city, now to another, according as games or festivals were held, now at Ephesus, now at Colophon, or Smyrna. As connected both with the theatre and with the worship of Artemis, they were probably officially informed of the occasion of the tumult.”
 
Concerning these Asiarchs, Luke next records, “being his friends.” How he became connected to these men isn’t stated. Likewise, it is unknown if they were believers or not. Regardless, Ellicott seems to be correct when he says, “There is something significant in the fact that the Asiarchs were St. Paul’s friends. The manliness, tact, and courtesy which tempered his zeal and boldness, seem always to have gained for him the respect of men in authority: Sergius Paulus (Acts 13:7), Gallio (Acts 18:14-17), Festus and Agrippa (Acts 25:9; Acts 26:28; Acts 26:32), the centurion Julius (Acts 27:3; Acts 27:43).”
 
Paul was obviously bold and firm in his speaking. Therefore, whether he obtained converts of others or not, the men respected him for his character. Because they are noted as his friends, Luke continues with, “having sent to him.”
 
Whether they were in the theater and saw the riotous nature of the crowd, or whether they were elsewhere in the city and knew of what was occurring, they sent a messenger to Paul and “were imploring not to venture himself into the theater.”
 
These men were aware of Paul’s character. They knew that if he went into the theater he would immediately go to where he could be heard and begin to speak up about the gospel. Having dealt with him in the past, they were certain this would be the case. They also knew that the fracas was because of him and his supposed undermining of Artemis.
 
All of this is either explicit or it can be deduced from the surrounding text. Knowing this, they begged him to refrain from entering, knowing that the outcome would result in certain harm to him.
 
Life application: As noted above, it is apparent that Paul was known to highly prominent men, not just in Asia but wherever he traveled. Even if they were not converts, he gained their respect as a person. His words and demeanor may have been totally directed to the sharing of the gospel. However, he did it in a manner that was bold and firm but not confrontational.
 
At times, one may come across a street preacher who yells out his message. He may stand and condemn everyone around him to hell for not accepting Jesus. These things may be true, but there is no reason for this type of conduct. To tell people that they need Jesus in order to be saved implies that they are not saved. If they are not saved, the implication is that they are already separated from God. People get this without being yelled at that they are sinners and are going to hell.
 
And the whole yelling thing. Yeah, right. If someone comes to your business and you start yelling at him, well, that won’t go over well.
 
[Shouted loudly] “If you don’t buy this extra insurance for your new appliance, you are an idiot!”
 
You will not sell many insurance policies that way. The same is true with selling hot dogs, promoting your plumbing business, etc. There is a way to convey the gospel message without yelling and/or accusation. Reading the evangelistic words of Paul in Acts will help you see how he conveyed the message. Even if his words were rejected, he was received as an honorable man.
 
The strong words of accusation by Paul (and by Jesus) were saved for those who claimed to be followers of the true God but who were not living according to their proclamation. For the unsaved, they were treated boldly in the message, but respectfully regardless of its acceptance or rejection. Follow this path and you will find that even if you meet with initial failure, you may later have success with those same people.
 
Heavenly Father, may we be wise and discerning in how we present the gospel to others. It is the message that saves. If we don’t present it with respect and care, it will not only be rejected at first, but the encounter will be remembered by those who were offended by our presentation. Our goal should be to exalt You and this saving message, not to demean and condemn those who hear our words. Help us in this, O God. Amen.

Acts 19:30

Monday, 21 August 2023
 
And when Paul wanted to go in to the people, the disciples would not allow him. Acts 19:30
 
The verbs in the NKJV need a tune-up – “And Paul, desiring to enter to the people, the disciples would not allow him” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, the city of Ephesus was seized with the rising disturbance initiated by the words of Demetrius. Eventually, they seized Gaius and Aristarchus as they rushed into the theater. With that, it next says, “And Paul, desiring to enter to the people.”
 
As is Luke’s custom, the use of participles brings action to the narrative, as if it is occurring in front of our eyes. Paul probably wanted to stand up and give the gospel to the entire city. It would save a lot of time to do it this way, but it would also bear the possibility of physical harm.
 
This wasn’t as important to him as getting the word out, so setting his own safety aside and appealing to the masses would take the pressure off Gaius and Aristarchus and place it on him. Paul had rushed into the middle of a group of excited people in the past (e.g. Acts 14:14) and he will do it again later in Acts (such as Acts 21:39).
 
He saw incidents such as this as opportunities to speak to more people at once about the wonderful saving message of Jesus. Regardless of bodily harm, this was his driving passion. In this case, however, “the disciples would not allow him.”
 
In 1 Corinthians 15:32, Paul says –
 
“If, in the manner of men, I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantage is it to me? If the dead do not rise, ‘Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die!’”
 
The incident now being recorded might be what he was referring to. Ephesus was a large city and there were probably not a lot of wild beasts running around. Rather, he is either using the meaning figuratively to speak of wild, raging people, or he may be referring to his desire to enter the theater. Such a theater would, at times, be used for actually fighting wild beasts. As such, he may have been saying, “I was willing to enter the theater and fight for the gospel in that setting.”
 
Regardless of the situation, his words in 1 Corinthians 15 are likely figurative in nature. In this case, however, the disciples were sure he would be harmed, so they restrained him. This will continue to be seen in the next verse.
 
Life application: Paul was restrained from entering by people that could perceive the danger of the situation. He probably didn’t care about that, but they did. As such, they kept him from what he wanted.
 
Despite him being an apostle and they being his disciples, they were willing to set this type of authority aside for the greater good. There may be times when a church sees a pastor being overzealous for an issue. His care may be to get the word out, but they may perceive a danger that he is unwilling to acknowledge. As such, it becomes their responsibility to take the reasonable avenue and restrain him.
 
Despite being the pastor for instruction and leading, he is just a guy. His ability to grasp all of what is going on around him is limited. There may be a point, therefore, that stopping him for the sake of safety may be just the thing needed at the time. Just as the pastor looks out for his flock, those of the church should look out for him.
 
Lord Jesus, You have appointed leaders in Your church to guide the people in spiritual matters. But You have also placed people under their care that may have the ability to assist them in ways they cannot even imagine. So, Lord, help us to use our abilities to assist and protect those appointed over us. May Your wisdom guide us all our days. Amen.
 

Acts 19:29

Sunday, 20 August 2023
 
So the whole city was filled with confusion, and rushed into the theater with one accord, having seized Gaius and Aristarchus, Macedonians, Paul’s travel companions. Acts 19:29
 
To match the Greek, these words are more closely rendered, “And the city was filled – the outpouring – and rushed single-mindedly to the theater, having seized Gaius and Aristarchus, Macedonians, fellow-travelers of Paul” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, the silversmiths had gotten lathered up at the words of Demetrius and cried out, saying “Great is Diana of the Ephesians.” With that, people began to take notice of their excited cries and Luke next notes, “And the city was filled – the outpouring.”
 
It is a noun found only here in Scripture, sugchusis.
 
It comes from the verb sugcheó, meaning to pour out together. Figuratively, it refers to being confused or confounded. As the noun form is used, the word outpouring (an outburst of strong emotion) gives a close sense. The people heard the shouts of the silversmiths, the word was passed on from there concerning what was going on, and everyone poured out of their homes and businesses in a heat of emotion. From there, it next notes, “and rushed single-mindedly to the theater.”
 
Here is a word, homothumadon, found eleven times in the New Testament, ten of those instances are in Acts, and this is the last use in Acts. Its root words signify “same” and “passion.” Thus, it describes having the same passion or the same desire. The minds agree and thus “single-mindedly” gives the sense.
 
Even if they didn’t know why they were going to the theater, they were propelled by a herd mentality with one purpose. As for the theater mentioned here, it was next to the temple of Artemis and is said to have been able to hold 25,000 people according to Ellicott. Vincent’s Word Studies says it held 56,000. Apparently, it was built for gladiator combat of the day, but it was also a theater for drama and public debates. It would have been a perfect place for the gathering to meet.
 
Concerning the mob, in verse 32, it will note that most of the people didn’t even know why they had come together. They had simply followed the growing mob, one after another. However, of those that did know why they had come together, it next notes, “having seized Gaius and Aristarchus.”
 
As the crowd rushed towards the focal point of the confused mob, those who knew that it was because of the spreading of the gospel together snatched these two men by force and carried them off.
 
As for their names, Gaius probably comes from gaia, earth or land. Thus, it means Of the Land. This could be taken as “he is a man of the land” like a farmer, or it could signify “he is made from the earth” like Adam. The name Gaius was one of the most common names of the time. It is the same as the Roman Caius. Several men will be noted with this same name in the New Testament. There could be overlap in them so that one or two are the same person, but this is not certain.
 
The second name, Aristarchus, comes from ariston, breakfast or midday meal (signifying the best meal), and archó, to rule. Thus, his name means Best Ruler. He will be seen again in Acts 20:4 where he is noted as being from Thessalonica. In Colossians 4:10 he is noted as Paul's fellow prisoner. He came to Christ through Paul and stayed close to him through thick and thin. He is also seen in Acts 27:2 and Philemon 1:24.
 
Of these men, Paul notes that both were “Macedonians.” As they are in Ephesus, they are not local to the area and had become targets of the crowd because they were also “fellow-travelers of Paul.”
 
This is a new noun sunekdémos. It comes from three words meaning “with,” “out of,” and “people,” but people of a like commonality. They are those who traveled with Paul, out of another place, and thus “fellow-travelers.”
 
Life application: One can see how a tumult raised by one group has grown into a general crowd that is gathered into a mob. This is as common as gravel on a driveway. Once a little ruckus gets going outside a store, people will start to gather to see what is going on. Often, without even knowing the circumstances, there will be someone to egg things on. “That guy was minding his own business and the cops started pounding on him.”
 
From there, the crowd starts yelling at the cops, maybe throwing stuff at them. General disarray erupts, the riot police have to be called, and people get thrown into jail. The person was a shoplifter, he turned on the cops and started pounding on them, they took action to subdue him, the crowd was in the wrong, cops were beaten, and one was killed. All because someone made up a false story.
 
Solomon says –
 
“He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his ownIs like one who takes a dog by the ears.” Proverbs 26:17
 
Grabbing a dog by the ears is not smart. They will usually attack and bite the person who does it. When you see a tussle going on outside, the best thing to do is to keep your distance and not get involved. To get more such wisdom, be sure to read the Proverbs from time to time. It is filled with good information like this. Pay attention to it and keep yourself from disaster.
 
Lord God, help us to make the Bible a priority in our daily lives. It is certain that it will fill us with wisdom and also keep us from harm. Above all, thank You for Jesus Christ our Lord who will save us from this world of woe, even if we get caught up in it from time to time because we failed to read Your word. In the end, we shall be secure. Amen.