Acts 19:26
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 19:26
26 Moreover ye see and hear, that not alone at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul hath persuaded and turned away much people, saying that they be no gods, which are made with hands:
Chapter Context
Acts 19 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of holiness, faith, salvation. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-41: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 19:26
26 Moreover ye see and hear, that not alone at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul hath persuaded and turned away much people, saying that they be no gods, which are made with hands:
Analysis
Not alone at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia—Paul's ministry had provincial impact, not merely local. The Greek πείθω (peithō, 'persuaded') indicates rational argumentation, not coercion. Paul turned away much people (μετέστησεν, metestēsen, 'caused to change sides'), using language of conversion and defection from false religion.
They be no gods, which are made with hands (χειροποίητοι, cheiropoiētoi)—This echoes prophetic mockery of idols (Psalm 115:4-8, Isaiah 44:9-20). Paul's preaching exposed the obvious absurdity: creators cannot be inferior to their creations. The gospel's intellectual coherence, combined with Spirit-power, systematically dismantled Artemis worship.
Historical Context
The seven churches of Asia (Revelation 2-3) emerged from Paul's Ephesian ministry, which reached the entire province through the hall of Tyrannus (Acts 19:9-10). Ephesus served as Paul's base for regional evangelism, training workers who planted churches throughout Asia Minor.
Reflection
- What 'handmade gods' (career, relationships, ideology) might dominate contemporary culture?
- How can you balance reasoned persuasion and Spirit-empowerment in your witness?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- References God: Acts 17:29, Deuteronomy 4:28, 1 Corinthians 8:4
- Creation: Acts 14:15, Jeremiah 10:11
- Parallel theme: Acts 19:10, Revelation 9:20