Friday 1 August 2025
He said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you became believers?” They replied, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” (v. 2)
Background
Paul arrived in Ephesus encountering disciples who had only received John's baptism. He explained the necessity of believing in Jesus, baptised them in Jesus' name, and they received the Holy Spirit, spoke in tongues and prophesied. Paul then taught in the synagogue for three months but faced opposition, so he moved to the lecture hall of Tyrannus, where he taught daily for two years.
Extraordinary miracles occurred through Paul, including healings and exorcisms. However, Jewish exorcists, including the seven sons of Sceva, attempted to invoke Jesus' name without true faith and were overpowered by an evil spirit. This event led many to believe, confess their sins, and renounce magic, demonstrating the gospel's transformative power.
Ephesus was a major city in the Roman Empire, known for its temple to Artemis and its deep-rooted pagan practices. The passage highlights the clash between Christianity and the existing religious and economic structures. The failed exorcism by the sons of Sceva underscores the importance of genuine faith rather than mere ritualistic invocation. The burning of magic books by new believers signifies a radical break from their past and a public declaration of allegiance to Christ. This moment reflects the broader theme of Acts, which is that the gospel disrupts societal norms and challenges spiritual authorities. As many have said, "The gospel of Christ is counter cultural."
To Ponder:
- How does this passage compare with Acts 16:16-34 where the gospel similarly overturns economic and spiritual power structures?
- Other than causing 'speaking in tongues', what is the work of the Holy Spirit in this passage?
- In what ways would you say, is the gospel of Christ counter-cultural today?
Prayer
Lord, help us to rely on the Holy Spirit in our everyday life of faith and witnessing for Jesus Christ. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Dr Jonathan Gichaara
Dr Gichaara is a retired Methodist minister. He lives in the Doncaster Circuit with Elizabeth, his wife.
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