* Paul instructs the disciples of John at Ephesus. (1-7) He teaches
there. (8-12) The Jewish exorcists disgraced. Some Ephesians burn
their evil books. (13-20) The tumult at Ephesus. (21-31) The tumult
appeased. (32-41)... [ Continue Reading ]
1-7 Paul, at Ephesus, found some religious persons, who looked to
Jesus as the Messiah. They had not been led to expect the miraculous
powers of the Holy Ghost, nor were they informed that the gospel was
especially the ministration of the Spirit. But they spake as ready to
welcome the notice of it.... [ Continue Reading ]
8-12 When arguments and persuasions only harden men in unbelief and
blasphemy, we must separate ourselves and others from such unholy
company. God was pleased to confirm the teaching of these holy men of
old, that if their hearers believed them not, they might believe the
works.... [ Continue Reading ]
13-20 It was common, especially among the Jews, for persons to profess
or to try to cast out evil spirits. If we resist the devil by faith in
Christ, he will flee from us; but if we think to resist him by the
using of Christ's name, or his works, as a spell or charm, Satan will
prevail against us. W... [ Continue Reading ]
21-31 Persons who came from afar to pay their devotions at the temple
of Ephesus, bought little silver shrines, or models of the temple, to
carry home with them. See how craftsmen make advantage to themselves
of people's superstition, and serve their worldly ends by it. Men are
jealous for that by... [ Continue Reading ]
32-41 The Jews came forward in this tumult. Those who are thus
careful to distinguish themselves from the servants of Christ now, and
are afraid of being taken for them, shall have their doom accordingly
in the great day. One, having authority, at length stilled the noise.
It is a very good rule at... [ Continue Reading ]