CULTURE CLASH IN EPHESUS
Passage: Acts 19:21~41
Keyverse: 23
1. A threat to business causes a riot (21-34)
Paul had decided to visit Jerusalem, with a hope to then go to
Rome. A problem arose with a local businessman. Demetrius was making silver
shrines for the worship of the goddess Artemis. Paul was competition, because
people believed in Jesus and got rid of their idols. Demetrius called a meeting
of fellow craftsmen. His motives were economic, but he played on people's
religious feelings and civic pride. He started a riot to drive Paul out of
town.
2. The riot is quelled (35-41)
Paul's companions were seized and taken to the theater (29). Paul
wanted to address the crowd, but friends and fellow believers restrained him
(30-31). For two hours the rioters milled around in confusion, shouting praise
to Artemis. Most didn't know why they were there. Then the city clerk rebuked
the mob and the explosive situation was defused. The door in Ephesus was
closing, but Paul would be used in Rome.
Prayer: Lord, help us not to be surprised at opposition or
persecution when we challenge the materialistic culture with Jesus' gospel.
One Word: The gospel challenges culture
No comments:
Post a Comment