Wherever the Way or the gospel goes, it has kingdom-shaking implications. Pagan practices go bankrupt, power and allegiance are shaken, and riots often break out. This is no tame, keep-it-to-myself movement. In previous chapters, the power of the Jesus has challenged the power of Rome, overcome superstition, and perplexed the philosophers. Now, in Acts 19, it dethrones an ancient diety named Diana and triumphs in a religious center; and Roman rule actually assists and protects Paul as he ministers there for several years.
Big Idea: The early church carried the gospel throughout the known world in approximately 30 years and transformed an empire in 3 centuries. Now the church seems intimidated, uncertain amidst swift cultural changes. So, what did the early Christians, commanded by Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, do that we are not doing? Here are their Acts, and may they inspire our own.
Outline:
- Holy Handkerchiefs!
- Unimpressed Demons
- Diana Dethroned
Key Takeaways:
- The remarkable story of healing through Paul’s handkerchiefs.
- A terrifying tale of Jeiwsh exorcists that more than met their match.
- The magnificence of the temple of Diana/Artemis, and the extent of its reach in the Roman world.
- The fact that Paul calls the Asiarchs his friend (vs. 31) and the connection to I Timothy 2:1-2.
- The power of the Word, and the faithful ministry of Paul and other believers.