Acts of the Holy Spirit

Acts 19

Pastor Valentine | 11.3.24

Would there be enough evidence in your walk to convict you of being a follower of Jesus Christ?

Acts 19: 1-5

While Apollos was in Corinth, Paul traveled through the interior regions and came to Ephesus. He found some disciples 2 and asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” “No,” they told him, “we haven’t even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.”3 “Into what then were you baptized?” he asked them.“Into John’s baptism,” they replied.4 Paul said, “John baptized with a baptism of repentance, telling the people that they should believe in the one who would come after him, that is, in Jesus.”5 When they heard this, they were baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus.

We are not told why Paul was prompted to ask this question. However, we do know that after he explained the means of baptism. They quickly were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.

It is important to examine your walk. Are you showing proof of a life transformed by the Holy Spirit? Were you baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus? As you listen to the sermon be reminded that just because you profess Jesus doesn’t mean you possess Him.

As you reflect over Acts 19, be remaindered that we are all sinner that must admit our sins, confess our need for the savior, trust in the God who saves and surrender.

Context: Acts 19 is set in the city of Ephesus during Paul’s third missionary journey. It highlights several key theological themes and events:

Baptism and the Holy Spirit (Acts 19:1-7):

Paul encounters some disciples who had only received John’s baptism. He explains the baptism in the name of Jesus, and upon laying his hands on them, they receive the Holy Spirit, speaking in tongues and prophesying. This underscores the transition from the old covenant (John’s baptism) to the new covenant through Christ, emphasizing the importance of the Holy Spirit in Christian life.

Miracles and Evangelism (Acts 19:8-20):

Paul performs extraordinary miracles, including healing and exorcism. These acts serve to authenticate his ministry and spread the Gospel. The narrative includes the dramatic episode of the seven sons of Sceva, where misuse of Jesus’ name fails, contrasting with the power given to true believers. This part of the chapter shows the power of the Gospel over false religions and occult practices, leading to a public renouncement of magic arts.

Opposition and Persecution (Acts 19:21-41):

The success of Paul’s ministry in Ephesus creates economic disruption for those involved in the trade of idols, particularly the silversmiths who made shrines of Artemis. This leads to a riot led by Demetrius, highlighting the economic and cultural clash between Christianity and pagan worship. The incident illustrates the theme of persecution as a natural outcome of the Gospel’s challenge to established religious and economic systems.

Application:

Baptism and Spiritual Growth: Christians today can reflect on their own baptism, understanding it not just as an initiation but as an entry into a life empowered by the Holy Spirit. This might encourage believers to seek a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit for personal transformation and empowerment in ministry.

  • The Power of the Gospel: The miracles in Acts 19 remind believers of the living and active nature of God’s word and Spirit. Christians are encouraged to trust in the Gospel’s power to change lives, cultures, and even economic systems, though this might come with opposition.
  • Confronting Idolatry: The narrative prompts a self-examination of modern idolatries in our lives or society. It calls for a bold testimony against materialism, false gods, or any practice that detracts from true worship of God.
  • Handling Persecution: The response to the riot in Ephesus teaches about wisdom in managing conflict. Christians should be aware that sharing the Gospel might provoke opposition, but they should respond with wisdom, seeking peaceful resolutions while standing firm in faith.
  • Community Impact: The public burning of magical scrolls signifies a communal commitment to Christ. This can inspire modern churches to engage in community transformation, showing the Gospel’s impact not just individually but collectively.

In summary, Acts 19 is not just a historical account but a rich tapestry of theology with practical applications for how Christians should live out their faith, engage with culture, and bear witness to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.