October 20, 2026 - Acts 19

So, Paul eventually made his way to Ephesus and there “he found some disciples” (19:1).  The Holy Spirit came upon them, and Paul then “entered the synagogue and for three months spoke boldly, reasoning and persuading them about the kingdom of God” (19:8), which continued “continued for two years, so that all the residents of Asia heard the word of the Lord, both Jews and Greeks” (19:10).  The gospel continued to be proclaimed!  An interesting episode occurred when the sons of Sceva, noticing all that was being done in Jesus’ name, sought to employ the name as some sort of magical fetish; you know, just call out “Jesus” in a strong voice and, viola, you get what you want.  Well, a man possessed by an evil spirit jumped on them and beat the mess out of them.  Then there was Demetrius, the silversmith who made idols.  Paul declared those idols not to be gods.  The Ephesians rioted.  Wow, all sorts of things going on, much opposition, and many challenges to the gospel.  Still, “the word of the Lord continued to increase and prevail mightily” (19:20).

See how great a flame aspires,

Kindled by a spark of grace! . . .

When he first the work began,

Small and feeble was his day;

Now the word does swiftly run,

Now it wins its wid’ning way.

More and more it spreads and grows,

Ever mighty to prevail;

Sin’s strongholds it now o’erthrows,

Shakes the trembling gates of Hell.   --Charles Wesley (1749)