Acts 19:23
And the same time there arose no small stir about that way.
Original Language Analysis
Ἐγένετο
there arose
G1096
Ἐγένετο
there arose
Strong's:
G1096
Word #:
1 of 12
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
κατὰ
G2596
κατὰ
Strong's:
G2596
Word #:
3 of 12
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐκεῖνον
the same
G1565
ἐκεῖνον
the same
Strong's:
G1565
Word #:
6 of 12
that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed
ὀλίγος
small
G3641
ὀλίγος
small
Strong's:
G3641
Word #:
9 of 12
puny (in extent, degree, number, duration or value); especially neuter (adverbially) somewhat
περὶ
about
G4012
περὶ
about
Strong's:
G4012
Word #:
10 of 12
properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas
Cross References
Acts 19:9But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.Acts 24:22And when Felix heard these things, having more perfect knowledge of that way, he deferred them, and said, When Lysias the chief captain shall come down, I will know the uttermost of your matter.
Historical Context
Ephesus (circa AD 54-57) was Asia Minor's commercial hub and home to the Temple of Artemis (Diana), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The cult of Artemis generated massive revenue through religious tourism and idol manufacturing. Paul's prolonged ministry (the longest recorded in Acts) had created widespread conversion.
Questions for Reflection
- When the gospel genuinely transforms a culture, what economic or social structures might be threatened?
- How does identifying Christianity as 'the Way' shape your understanding of exclusive truth claims?
Analysis & Commentary
No small stir about that way—Luke's characteristic understatement (λιτότης, litotes) masks intense opposition. The term that way (ἡ ὁδός, hē hodos) became an early designation for Christianity, appearing throughout Acts (9:2, 19:9, 22:4, 24:14). This 'Way' language echoes Jesus' self-identification as 'the way, the truth, and the life' (John 14:6).
The Greek τάραχος (tarachos, 'stir') implies public disturbance and tumult. Paul's ministry in Ephesus—spanning three years (20:31)—had so thoroughly impacted the city that economic and religious structures faced collapse. The gospel's transforming power threatened not just beliefs but entire industries built on idolatry.