Acts 19:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 19:27
27 So that not only this our craft is in danger to be set at nought; but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised, and her magnificence should be destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worshippeth.
Chapter Context
Acts 19 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of creation, discipleship, love. 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 reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 19:27
27 So that not only this our craft is in danger to be set at nought; but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised, and her magnificence should be destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worshippeth.
Analysis
This our craft is in danger to be set at nought (ἀπελεγμόν, apelegmon, 'disrepute')—Demetrius initially frames opposition economically before pivoting to religious concern: the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised. The Greek καθαιρέω (kathaireō, 'destroyed') means 'pulled down' or 'deposed,' suggesting Artemis' dethroning.
Whom all Asia and the world worshippeth—Artemis commanded international reverence. Her temple functioned as bank, asylum, and pilgrimage destination. Yet Demetrius betrayed anxiety: if Christianity could devastate Artemis worship in her own city, no idol was safe. The gospel's exclusivity ultimately confronts every false god, whether ancient idols or modern ideologies.
Historical Context
The Temple of Artemis Ephesia housed a meteorite (the 'image which fell down from Jupiter,' Acts 19:35), worshiped as the goddess's physical manifestation. Artemis worship combined Anatolian mother-goddess traditions with Greek religious elements, making her one of antiquity's most widely venerated deities.
Reflection
- How does the gospel's exclusive truth challenge pluralistic tolerance that treats all religions as equally valid?
- What cultural 'magnificence' in your context needs to be 'destroyed' by confrontation with Christ's supremacy?
Cross-References
- Worship: Zephaniah 2:11