Acts 19 - Revival or Riot

Introduction

Historically, think about Martin Luther during the Reformation. He proclaimed the truth of the Gospel, which led to both fierce opposition and radical transformation within the church and society. While a powerful figure of resistance against corruption, he also sparked a movement that transformed countless lives. His belief that 'the just shall live by faith' challenged the status quo, demonstrating that even when faced with significant pushback, God uses faithful proclamation of the Gospel to initiate profound change.

Briefly set the context: Paul’s third missionary journey brings him to Ephesus, a city steeped in idolatry and spiritual darkness.

State the main theme: When the Gospel is faithfully proclaimed, it brings both transformation and opposition.

1. Belief Breeds Breakthroughs

Text: Acts 19:1-12

Exegesis:

Paul encounters “disciples” who had not received the Holy Spirit (vv. 1-2). He clarifies the difference between John’s baptism (repentance) and faith in Jesus (vv. 3-4).

Upon believing in Jesus, they receive the Holy Spirit (v. 6), demonstrating that true spiritual life comes only through Christ.

God does “extraordinary miracles by the hands of Paul” (v. 11), so much so that even handkerchiefs and aprons carried healing power (v. 12). The miracles are not about Paul, but about authenticating the message of Christ.

Christ Connection:

The power at work is not Paul’s, but Christ’s. The Spirit’s presence is the mark of true discipleship (Romans 8:9).

The miracles point to Jesus as the living Lord who continues to work through His people.

Application:

ESV Church History Study Bible Notes: Voices from the Past, Wisdom for the Present Chapter 19

If we do not mix faith with the Word, it is like leaving out the chief ingredient in a medicine, which makes it ineffectual. Unbelief hardens men’s hearts against the Word. Men hear many truths delivered concerning the preciousness of Christ—the beauty of holiness, the felicity of a glorified estate—but, if through unbelief and atheism they question these truths, we may as well speak to the stones and pillars of the church as to them. That Word that is not believed can never be practiced. (Thomas Watson, A Body of Divinity)

Revival begins with genuine faith in Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Encourage listeners to examine whether their faith is rooted in a real relationship with Jesus, not just religious activity.

2. Authenticity Against All Odds

Text: Acts 19:13-20

Exegesis:

The sons of Sceva attempt to use Jesus’ name as a formula, but lack a true relationship with Him (vv. 13-16). The evil spirit recognizes Jesus and Paul, but not them, resulting in their humiliation.

This incident leads to “fear falling on all” and “the name of the Lord Jesus being extolled” (v. 17).

Many believers publicly confess and renounce their former practices, burning expensive magic scrolls (vv. 18-19), showing the cost and completeness of repentance.

“The word of the Lord continued to increase and prevail mightily” (v. 20).

Christ Connection:

Only those truly united to Christ have spiritual authority. Jesus is supreme over all spiritual powers (Colossians 2:15).

The burning of scrolls is a picture of repentance and the surpassing worth of knowing Christ (Philippians 3:8).

Application:

ESV Church History Study Bible Notes: Voices from the Past, Wisdom for the Present Chapter 19

This is written for a warning to all those who name the name of Christ but do not depart from iniquity. The same enemy that overcomes them with his temptations will overcome them with his terrors, and their adjuring him in Christ’s name to let them alone will be no security to them. If we resist the devil by a true and lively faith in Christ, he will flee from us, but if we think to resist him by the bare using of Christ’s name, or any part of his Word, as a spell or charm, or by merely professing his religion, he will prevail against us. (Joseph Benson, Commentary on the Old and New Testaments)

Authentic faith is not about outward forms or borrowed words, but a surrendered life to Jesus.

Call for wholehearted repentance and trust in Christ’s power over all other allegiances.

3. Resistance Reveals Resilience

Text: Acts 19:21-41

Exegesis:

Paul’s ministry threatens the livelihood of idol-makers, especially Demetrius the silversmith (vv. 23-27).

The resulting riot shows the Gospel’s power to disrupt cultural and economic systems opposed to God (vv. 28-34).

Despite the chaos, God sovereignly protects Paul and the believers (vv. 35-41). The city clerk’s intervention prevents violence and upholds order.

Christ Connection:

The opposition Paul faces mirrors the opposition Jesus faced (John 15:18-20).

The Gospel’s advance is unstoppable because Christ is building His church (Matthew 16:18).

Application:

Expect opposition when living out the Gospel, but trust God’s sovereignty.

The first half of the Gospel emphasizes the coming of God’s rule in acts of power and mercy, and the second half emphasizes the persecution that results from living out God’s rule in this age.

David Rhoads; Joanna Dewey; Donald Michie

Encourage perseverance, knowing that Christ is with us and His purposes will prevail.

The saints prove their conversion by their perseverance, and that perseverance comes from a continual supply of divine grace to their souls. The Candle, Volume 27, Sermon #1594 - Matthew 5:15, 16

Charles Spurgeon

Conclusion

Summarize: The true gospel brings both revival and resistance, but God’s purposes are never thwarted.

Point to Christ: He is the source of power, the model of faithfulness, and the assurance of victory.

Call to response: Examine your faith, repent of anything that competes with Christ, and stand firm in the face of opposition.

Scripture References

Acts 19:1-41 (main text)

Romans 8:9 (Spirit as mark of true believer)

Colossians 2:15 (Christ’s victory over spiritual powers)

Philippians 3:8 (surpassing worth of Christ)

Matthew 16:18 (Christ builds His church)

John 15:18-20 (expecting opposition)