The Bible Study New Testament

Acts 19:23-34

That there was serious trouble. Things had been peaceful up to now. Notice trouble starts from a Gentile source. Made silver models of the temple. The temple of Artemis [Diana] was one of the wonders of the world. The third temple then stood, built of white marble, 425 feet long by 220 feet wide, with 127 columns. In it was a "sacred stone that fell down from heaven," probably a meteorite, which may have been carved into an image of Artemis. Thousands came to this temple, and brought these silver models which were small enough to wear as a "charm" on a bracelet. Demetrius and the others were making themselves rich by selling these. You can see and hear. As Paul led people to Christ, they quit buying the silver models. The religious zeal of Demetrius was based on greed. Johnson says that when paganism fell, much of the material of this temple was taken to Constantinople and used in building the church of St. Sophia. The uproar spread. Nothing would stir up a mob more quickly than to believe both their business and their religion were in danger. And rushed with them to the theater. This was a large amphitheater, which would seat 20,000 to 30,000 people. It was used for public meetings. Paul himself wanted to go. He wanted to speak to the mob and answer the charges, but the believers were afraid the frenzied mob would kill him. Some of the provincial authorities. Ten of these "Asiarchs" were chosen each year to take charge of the games and festivals. Their president always lived in Ephesus. We see many times in the life of Paul when the Roman officials treat him not only with respect, but empathy. Most of them did not even know. It was a "blind mob," caught up in the passion of the moment. That Alexander was responsible. One of the Jewish leaders, who intended to speak to the mob and put all the blame on the Christians. But this "backfires," and the mob places the guilt on he and the other Jews. They will not allow him to speak, and they shout for two hours!

Continues after advertising

BibliaPlus

The Bible Study New Testament

Acts 19:23-34

Old Testament

New Testament