1. SECOND VISIT TO GALATIA AND PHRYGIA.

Acts 18:23.

(23) And having spent some time there, he departed, and went through the region of Galatia, and Phrygia, in order, establishing all the disciples.

After the Apostle had made his report to the church, covering a period of nearly four years, during which he traveled a good many hundred miles, and remembering the promise he had left with his workers in different churches, he began his third missionary journey.

Of the first part of this journey we have very little information. He tells us that he went over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples. We are sure that the churches in Galatia were planted on the second journey, and on this journey he visited them. He passed over this part of his journey very hurriedly in order to reach Ephesus, where he had preached in the synagogue, and on a pressing invitation to remain, promised the people to return. Here also he had left Aquila and Priscilla, and we find at this place Timothy with him again.

QUESTIONS.

• How long was Paul at Antioch?

• Name the churches he visited and for what purpose.

• Locate the churches and who organized them.

2. APOLLOS AT EPHESUS AND ACHAIA.

Acts 18:24-28.

(24) Now a certain Jew named Apollos, an Alexandrian by race, an eloquent man (or, a learned man), came to Ephesus; and he was mighty in the scriptures. (25) This man had been instructed (Gr. taught by word of mouth) in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spake and taught accurately the things concerning Jesus, knowing only the baptism of John:(26) and he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. But when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more accurately. (27) And when he was minded to pass over into Achaia, the brethren encouraged him, and wrote to the disciples to receive him: and when he was come, he helped them much that had believed through grace (or, helped much through grace them that had believed); (28) for he powerfully confuted the Jews, and that publicly, showing (or, showing publicly) by the scriptures that Jesus was the Christ.

When Paul had arrived at Ephesus he became acquainted with a Jew named Apollos, who was born at Alexandria. He was a thorough Old Testament student. He knew that Jesus of Nazareth was the Messiah, and was very eloquent and able to persuade others, and he preached very earnestly and boldly in the synagogue, things concerning Jesus. But he had learned about Jesus only through the word of John the Baptist.

Aquila and Priscilla, who had been under Paul's instruction a long time, gave Apollos private lessons, showing him the whole Gospel. After having this fuller teaching and realizing his failure in his former teaching, he left Ephesus and went into other fields to expound the way of God more perfectly, as set forth by his instructors, Aquila and Priscilla. When he was about to go forth into this new field of labor, the brethren wrote a letter to the church, exhorting the disciples to receive him who would be a very valuable help in their church. Upon his arrival Apollos, being an eloquent man, and well versed in the Old Testament, began to speak publicly, proving by the Scriptures that Jesus was. the Christ.

QUESTIONS.

• Who was Apollos and state his qualifications?

• What is said about him as a preacher at Ephesus?

• By whom was he instructed as to the baptism of Jesus?

  He was taught the Gospel more fully by Aquila and Priscilla.

• Why write to the disciples at Achaia?

  It was a letter of commendation that they might receive him into Christian fellowship.

• Why desire to go to a new field to work?

  It would be more difficult for him to make a success at Ephesus where the work that he had done had to be corrected, and in the new field he could work among the people who would not be prejudiced.

• What did he do upon his arrival at Achaia?

3. THE NEW PENTECOST AT EPHESUS.

Acts 19:1-7.

(1) And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper country came to Ephesus, and found certain disciples:(2) and he said unto them, Did ye receive the Holy Spirit when ye believed? And they said unto him, Nay, we did not so much as hear whether the Holy Spirit was given (or, there is a Holy Spirit). (3) And he said, Into what then were ye baptized? And they said, Into John's baptism. (4) And Paul said, John baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people that they should believe on him that should come after him, that is, on Jesus. (5) And when they heard this, they were baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. (6) And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Spirit came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. (7) And they were in all about twelve men.

On the former missionary journey the Apostle Paul had in mind to do missionary work in Asia Minor. But the Holy Spirit had other plans for him and he went into Europe. It seems that now the way was opened for him to establish the work he had in his mind and fulfill the promise he had made to the brethren that he would return to them speedily. At the time that Paul returned to Ephesus, Apollos, having been properly instructed, was doing acceptable work for the church at Corinth. This is the last account we have of Apollos. It is altogether probable that Paul took up his abode with Aquila and Priscilla, who were so faithful while at Corinth and accompanied him to Ephesus, and were still at Ephesus upon his return (1 Cor. 16:19). Paul had associated with them also because they worked at the same trade, and we find him here ministering with his own hands for his own necessity and also to them that were with him (Acts 20:34). At this place he staid longer than at any other point in his missionary labors. It embraced a period of about three years. Among his companions while at Ephesus, we find Aquila, Priscilla, Timothy, Erastus, Gaius and Aristarchus, and Sosthenes. Sosthenes seemed to have been the chief opposer at Corinth, and in writing his first letter to the Corinthian church he speaks of him as a Christian brother. Soon after Paul's arrival at Ephesus, while associating with some of the brethren, he no doubt felt there was something radically wrong in their religious life. He immediately inquired into the difficulty; he asked these brethren, " Did ye receive the Holy Ghost when ye believed?" Upon which they informed Paul that they did not as much as know there was a Holy Spirit, let alone having Him. They were instructed by one who was not properly informed, and they knew of John's baptism but not of the baptism of Jesus. Those that were baptized by John for repentance were to receive Jesus, for whom John was opening the way. But since then Jesus had come and they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus, that their sins might be remitted and they might receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Then were these twelve men rebaptized, and when Paul laid his hands upon them, received the Holy Spirit and commenced to speak with new tongues and prophesy. Thus we have four different times when the Holy Spirit was given in a special way to believers, and they spoke with new tongues. (1) After the waiting of the one hundred and twenty for ten days, Pentecost was at hand, they were filled with the Holy Spirit, and spoke with new tongues. These were all Jews and there was no laying on of hands. (2) About five years later, at the opening of missionary work in Samaria, many received baptism at the hands of Philip, but not until Peter and John, the Apostles, laid hands on them did they receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. There is nothing said about these speaking in tongues and prophesying. (3) When Peter, by special revelation, was sent to open the door to the Gentile world, while he was preaching to Cornelius and his household, the Holy Spirit fell upon them and they spoke with new tongues and praised God. (4) Here in our text we have the last case. Paul here laid his hands upon these twelve men, as an Apostle of the Gentiles, just as Peter and John, the Apostles of the Jews, laid hands upon the Samaritans, and all that were baptized by Philip received the gift of the Holy Spirit. No doubt Paul, the Apostle of the Gentiles, should be named as receiving Holy Spirit baptism at conversion.

The Jews, the Samaritans, and the Gentiles, all received the Holy Spirit by the laying on of hands. We had only twelve Apostles, and then Paul, the Apostle of the Gentiles, but there were no further appointments. When Paul asked the question about receiving the Holy Spirit, he did not mean, as the text implies, whether the Holy Spirit had given them new power at different times in their religious experiences. His inquiry was whether they received the Holy Spirit when baptized. The Holy Spirit came on the Day of Pentecost. He has been here ever since. He is ready to manifest Himself more fully in every believer who is a faithful and obedient student under the best and greatest of all Teachers.

QUESTIONS.

• Where was Paul while Apollos was at Ephesus?

  He was visiting the churches in Galatia and Phrygia.

• Where was Apollos when Paul reached Ephesus?

• Why did he ask the disciples the question about receiving the Holy Spirit?

• What was the second question Paul asked them and what was their answer?

• Were all of John's disciples rebaptized?

  Only those who had been baptized after it ceased to be administered by Divine authority. This is the last mention made of John the Baptist in the New Testament. Here at length he fully gives place to Christ.

• Give the four instances of the miraculous bestowment of the Spirit.

4. PAUL PREACHING AT EPHESUS.

Acts 19:8-12.

(1) Three Months in the Jewish Synagogue.—Acts 19:8-9.

(8) And he entered into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, reasoning and persuading as to the things concerning the kingdom of God. (9) But when some were hardened and disobedient, speaking evil of the Way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, reasoning daily in the school of Tyrannus.

John's ministry was now set aside as not being able to give full knowledge of the truth as required by the church at this age, as that ministry could not promise the Holy Spirit. It was now settled that the ministry of Jesus Christ was to be preached and upon its acceptance the Holy Spirit would be received. This equipment Paul proved to be the only way to show to those about us that our instruction is in harmony with the Book. After having these Christians fully established in faith and power, he entered the synagogue and spoke boldly to the people concerning the things taught in the Scriptures about the kingdom of God. These were his regular evangelistic sermons, and for three months he preached to these people and the Gospel had the same effect as in the other synagogues where he preached. Some of the hearers' hearts were touched and believed in Jesus, others became harder, and believed not, and went out before the multitude and stirred up the people. They made every effort to prejudice the people against Paul and thus arrest the progress of his evangelistic efforts. Paul followed the same course he adopted in Corinth and formed a Christian church separate from the synagogue, and arranged with one Tyrannus to hold services in one of his large buildings.

QUESTIONS.

• When had Paul preached in this synagogue before? and what did they say to him when he left? 8, cf. 18:20.

• What is meant by "speak boldly"?

• How were Paul and his fellow-laborers supported? 20:34-35. What was the result of the preaching in the synagogue?

  It had the effect of saving of souls and the hardening of sinners.

• What did Paul decide to do because of opposition?

  He ceased to take part in services in the public synagogue.

(2) Two Years in the School Room of Tyrannus.

Acts 19:10-12.

(10) And this continued for the space of two years; so that all they that dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord, both Jews and Greeks. (11) And God wrought special miracles (Gr. powers) by the hands of Paul:(12) insomuch that unto the sick were carried away from his body handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out.

The time had arrived for the special evangelistic labors in Asia. For two years the Apostle and his associates labored from Ephesus as a center, and the people, both Jews and Greeks, who dwelt in Asia, heard the Word of the Lord. These earnest, faithful disciples of the Master no doubt made wide circuits from Ephesus and probably the seven churches, which John mentions in the Book of Revelation, were founded during this period. Luke speaks not only of this public work, but of private work that was done from house to house during the ministry of these two years (20:20).

His inspiring message all the time contained repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ (20:21). Ephesus was a city known as the stronghold of Satan. It contained many ways of leading the people away from the true God to idols made with hands. These idols were made to suit the wicked condition of the people; people who worship the true God must repent and form their lives by a higher Standard. It is the change of the person, not the God, which elevates people, inspires them with new ideals and heavenly purposes. In order to meet the false belief in Ephesus that these gods had some divine power, God gave to His servant, Paul, miraculous power as testimony to His preaching and the overthrow of the false teaching concerning the heathen gods. Persons possessed with evil spirits, and who were sick, touched with handkerchiefs or aprons, which had come in touch with Paul's power, were healed. God here answered the faith of these people as he answered the woman's faith who touched the hem of His garment.

QUESTIONS.

• Who was with Paul at this new place of worship?

• Who was Tyrannus and why did Paul go there?

  This is the only information we have of him. He no doubt was the founder of the school which still bore his name, which building Paul hired for a preaching place. Many of the heathen would attend here who would not go into the synagogue.

• How long was Paul at Ephesus?

  In his farewell address (20:31) the time is given as three years. Some time was spent at Ephesus before he preached the three months in the synagogue, and he may have labored for some time after the information in ver. 20, thus making up the stated time.

• Why say "special miracles"?

  These were uncommon, specially given to overcome the evil influence that now prevailed in Ephesus.

• Why use the articles of dress?

  At this time there was a great crowd attending the public gatherings of Paul, and it was more convenient to bring these articles into contact with the sick than to have them all brought to the Apostles.

5. SUPPRESSION OF WITCHCRAFT.

Acts 19:13-20.

(1) Satan Disciplines His Own.—Acts 19:13-18.

(13) But certain also of the strolling Jews, exorcists, took upon them to name over them that had the evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, I adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth. (14) And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, a chief priest, who did this. (15) And the evil spirit answered and said unto them, Jesus I know (or, recognize), and Paul I know; but who are ye? (16) And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and mastered both of them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded. (17) And this became known to all, both Jews and Greeks, that dwelt at Ephesus; and fear fell upon them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified. (18) Many also of them that had believed came, confessing, and declaring their deeds.

When God gives special power to His children, Satan always puts up some of his as imitators. When God led His people through the Red Sea, Satan had Pharaoh and his host try to do the same thing, but their imitation was fully revealed in their failure to get across. Here the extraordinary power of Paul incited disreputable Jews to use the name of Jesus, to show their power over a demoniac. They were very careful in using their formula; in order that they might not make any mistake they would say, " We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preaches. " Among others who used this formula were the seven sons of Sceva, a Jew. These exorcists pretended to possess the power to drive out demons by this formula, so a few of them put this matter to a test, and they took a man possessed with a demon, into a room. Perhaps they were anxious to have the matter secret, so that if they would fail, the matter would be unknown to the people; but when they used this formula, " I adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preaches," the demoniac answered and said, " Jesus I know, and Paul I know, but who are ye?" The man with the superhuman strength of the demon, leaped upon them, and overcame these two men, so that their clothes were torn off them. The demon wounded them in the struggle, and they fled forth from the house. Certainly this must have been a very interesting scene on the street of Ephesus, and it stopped all the misuse of the name Jesus, and magnified Him whom Paul preached.

Here we have an example of what befell these men who misused the name of the Son of God. A worse fate will some day befall men and women who falsely use His name and claim to receive power from Him, who have not publicly accepted Him as their Savior. This punishment on the imitators had a great influence upon the thoughtful people of Ephesus. Many who were church members, but lived a careless religious life, made confession, and showed by their works their changed life.

QUESTIONS.

• Why call them "vagabond Jews"?

  They were of the Jewish nation and religion, and went from town to town to make money by telling fortunes, and pretending by spells and charms to cure diseases.

• Whom did these sorcerers try to imitate?

  God had wrought extraordinary miracles through Paul. He actually did what the sorcerers pretended to do, who deceived the people and took pay for their services.

• Why would unbelieving Jews want to use the name of Jesus?

  Paul used His name with success, so they thought they would use the same formula and accomplish their evil work.

• What did the man say and do when these imitators presented him with the formula?

• How were the deceivers punished in the presence of the people?

  Their effort was advertised publicly as a failure and they learned that some names are too sacred for deceivers to use. What effect had it on believers?

(2) Books of Magic Burned.—Acts 19:19-20.

(19) And not a few of them that practised magical arts brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all; and they counted the price of them, and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver. (20) So mightily grew the word of the Lord and prevailed.

Many of them must have continued to practice curious arts, and kept in their homes books containing formulas and recipes, for they brought them together in a public place and burned them before all men. The whole value, being about $8,000, was quickly consumed by the flames. When these books were burned, and the people took to the reading and studying of God's Book, God's Book grew mightily and had wonderful power because people became better acquainted with the true God. If the Christian men and women, in this country, would bring together the books of harmful novels, occultism, and spiritualism, and books on all other subjects which are today leading men and women away from the profound knowledge of God, they would make a greater bonfire than was had in the streets of Ephesus. Why should we cause God's great Book to be hindered, and why feed on trash instead of food God has provided for the hearts of men and women?

QUESTIONS.

• What did those do who were guilty of evil practices?

• What books were burned?

  They made a public bonfire of books that were used for teaching and training people in these superstitious practices.

• What was the value of the books that were burned?

  50,000 pieces of silver, some $8,000 worth of books.

• In what way did this help the Word of God?

• Name the greatest hindrances in Christian homes for spiritual growth.

6. PAUL'S GREAT PLANS FOR THE FUTURE.

Acts 19:21-22.

(21) Now after these things were ended, Paul purposed in the spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I must also see Rome. (22) And having sent into Macedonia two of them that ministered unto him, Timothy and Erastus, he himself stayed in Asia for a while.

The Word had many converts in many places. The books were burned that kept men and women from using the Word of God, the sword of the Spirit, in a deeper consecration and power of evangelization of the world. Paul was now ready to leave this work in the hands of others and soon left himself to visit again the churches in Macedonia and Achaia, and to make another visit to Jerusalem. After this his purpose was to open a Gospel highway to Rome and at least do some work in the political center of the world. However, the work in Ephesus seemed to be important; he was unwilling to leave it immediately, so he sent two of his colaborers, Timothy and Erastus, to Macedonia. The purpose of that mission is explained in 1 Cor. 4:17. While Paul remained at Ephesus he received intelligence concerning some difficulties in the Corinthian church, which really could not be adjusted without some authority from the Apostle who had planted it. Different teachers had developed factions and each one claimed authority. The Apostle also received a letter from the Corinthians, brought by some one from Ephesus, concerning various matters which had troubled the church (1 Cor. 7:1). Paul had written a letter to this church, giving some information helpful to those who were going astray (1 Cor. 5:9). This letter has not been preserved.

Paul, while he is in this prosperous church at Ephesus, writes his first letter to the Corinthian church. A careful study of this letter shows how Paul was disturbed when he learned of work in the Corinthian church being weakened by careless living. This First Letter to the Corinthian church was written about A. D. 57. Timothy had left and the writer was just about to leave. However, Paul continued his labors at Ephesus, but very soon new difficulties were to be met. The progress must be stopped by severe persecution.

QUESTIONS.

• When what things were ended?

• Why visit Macedonia and Achaia?

  His purpose was to visit the churches he had organized in order to strengthen them.

• Why did he desire to go to Jerusalem?

  That he might visit the mother church and take some contributions to the poor saints.

• Why decide to go to Rome?

  The Apostle of the Gentiles could not be satisfied without preaching the Gospel in the capital of the Empire.

• Why send Timothy and Anthony to Macedonia?

  To give notice of Paul's intended visit and to make ready the collections to take with him on his journey to Jerusalem.

• While he remained at Ephesus what Epistle did he write?

  This is the first letter we have to the church at Corinth (1 Cor. 16:8-9) and it was written when a great door was opened. This was after the books of magic were burned at Ephesus (19:19-20). It was written about A. D. 57, shortly before Paul left Ephesus to make his journey into Macedonia and Achaia.

7. RIOT OF THE SILVERSMITHS.

Acts 19:23-41.

(1) Gospel Interferes with Ungodly Gain.—Acts 19:23-27.

(23) And about that time there arose no small stir concerning the Way. (24) For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, who made silver shrines of Diana (Gr. Artemis), brought no little business unto the craftsmen; (25) whom he gathered together, with the workmen of like occupation, and said, Sirs, ye know that by this business we have our wealth. (26) And 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 are no gods, that are made with hands: (27) and not only is there danger that this our trade come into disrepute; but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana be made of no account, and that she should even be deposed from her magnificence whom all Asia and the world worshippeth.

After Paul had written his letters to the Corinthian church there gradually arose, in the same town where the Gospel had flourished, strong opposition which hindered the progress of his faithful work in Ephesus, and may have brought him to leave really sooner than he expected. In this great city was the temple of Diana, which was reckoned as one of the seven wonders of the world. The inscription discovered at the time of the excavation was exactly what was used by the mob, " The great Diana." While Paul was preaching and winning people away from idol worship, he disturbed the financial interests of those who sold idols. Demetrius and his companions manufactured shrines which were little models of the temple and the goddess. The speech made by Demetrius shows that the truth that Paul had preached had influenced many people who formerly worshiped idols and the charges against him were strictly true. The silversmith acknowledged that the love of gain was the thing that gave him zeal to push the business. This great temple was erected at an enormous expense. Is it any wonder that the charge that Demetrius made against Paul brought forth such outcries from the Diana worshipers? The structure itself was four hundred and twenty feet long and nearly two hundred and fifty feet wide. It was stored with rich treasures of gold and silver. Hundreds of persons, such as priests and virgin priestesses, were connected with the temple. Thousands of people, from all over the known world, were attracted to this great temple to attend the idolatrous festivities and the various games given in honor of the idol. These people brought much money to this city, and the people whose finances were affected were especially aroused.

QUESTIONS.

• At what time arose no small stir?

  We have just seen how sorcerers and Christians voluntarily gave up a bad business for Christ's sake. Now we see those who receive gain through wickedness.

• In what way were the silversmiths affected?

  They made little models of the temple and sold them to the heathens.

• What progress had the Gospel made?

• What was the only motive of those who said, "Our craft is in danger"?

  There was no regard for the making of people better and homes purer, but simply that of financial gain.

(2) The Mob and the Riot—Acts 19:28-34.

(28) And when they heard this they were filled with wrath, and cried out, saying, Great is Diana of the Ephesians. (29) And the city was filled with the confusion: and they rushed with one accord into the theatre, having seized Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's companions in travel. (30) And when Paul was minded to enter in unto the people, the disciples suffered him not. (31) And certain also of the Asiarchs (that is, officers having charge of festivals, etc., in the Roman province of Asia), being his friends, sent unto him and besought him not to adventure himself into the theatre. (32) Some therefore cried one thing, and some another: for the assembly was in confusion; and the more part knew not wherefore they were come together. (33) And they brought Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward. And Alexander beckoned with the hand, and would have made a defence unto the people. (34) But when they perceived that he was a Jew, all with one voice about the space of two hours cried out, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.

In answer to the charge of Demetrius, the people cried out, saying, " Great is Diana of the Ephesians." The whole city was excited. They took hold of two of Paul's companions, Gaius and Aristarchus, who had come from Macedonia, and rushed them into the theater. Paul was anxious about his two friends, and determined also to go in, but the disciples did not permit him. The whole company seemed to be an unruly mob, and many of them did not know what the excitement was about. During the time of this excitement the Jews put one, Alexander, to address the mob. Whether he was a believer or not, is not told, but the mob knew that the Jews hated idolatry, and the mob would not let him speak, and they kept up the excitement for two hours, crying, " Great is Diana of the Ephesians."

QUESTIONS.

• When the silversmith made his appeal, what was the cry of the people?

• Why take Gaius and Aristarchus?

  The mob, not finding Paul, seized his companions and rushed them into the theater, where criminals were often exposed to wild beasts.

• What was the fate of Gaius and Aristarchus?

  It is not here stated, but both names occur afterwards in history, and probably refer to the same people.

• Why did Paul desire to go into the public building?

  He was unwilling to allow his friends to suffer in his stead.

• What was the condition of the mob?

• Who was Alexander, and how long did the mob keep him guiet?

  Paul says (2 Tim. 4:14), "Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil. The Lord reward him according to his works." The Jews who were opposed to the teaching of Jesus, were afraid that the mob would identify them with the Christians, and they put him forth to make their defense before the mob.

(3) Intervention by a Public Officer.—Acts 19:35-41.

(35) And when the town-clerk had quieted the multitude, he saith, Ye men of Ephesus, what man is there who knoweth not that the city of the Ephesians is temple-keeper of the great Diana, and of the image which fell down from Jupiter (or, heaven)? (36) Seeing then that these things cannot be gainsaid, ye ought to be quiet, and to do nothing rash. (37) For ye have brought hither these men, who are neither robbers of temples nor blasphemers of our goddess. (38) If therefore Demetrius, and the craftsmen that are with him, have a matter against any man, the courts are open (or, court days are kept), and there are proconsuls: let them accuse one another. (39) But if ye seek anything about other matters, it shall be settled in the regular assembly. (40) For indeed we are in danger to be accused concerning this day's riot, there being no cause for it: and as touching it we shall not be able to give account of this concourse. (41) And when he had thus spoken, he dismissed the assembly.

Ephesus was a free city, governed by a popular assembly and by magistrates. The chief magistrate was called " town-clerk," whom we would call mayor. When he had quieted the people, showing what great influence this goddess had in that all the people in Ephesus worshiped her and that she was cast down by Jupiter, he said:" These are facts that can not be altered by anybody's speech, nor can they be changed by such rioting as is carried on here, therefore you ought to keep quiet and not do anything rashly. Gaius and Aristarchus and the other men are not robbers of temples, nor blasphemers of the goddess Diana. Now if Demetrius has any matter against anyone, the law courts are open, and there are judges ready to take up misdemeanors in every province. They are the persons to appeal to for justice. Should the matter be one against the whole city, it would only be proper that it should be determined in an assembly called in the regular way, and not by an assembly such as has been brought together here by excitement." After he had made this address to the people, the people were satisfied and he dismissed them.

QUESTIONS.

• What was the image referred to?

  It was the image that fell down from Jupiter, and therefore none of the gods that were made with man's hands.

• What were the points in his argument?

  He turns them over to the regular methods of the law.

• What is the meaning of "determined in a lawful assembly"?

• Why in danger of being accused?

• Had the uproar been reported to the emperor?

  There was danger of receiving punishment. We cannot justify ourselves in breaking the peace in saying that others broke it first.

8. PAUL'S SECOND VISIT TO EUROPE.

Acts 20:1-6.

(1) To Macedonia.—Acts 20:1.

(1) And after the uproar ceased, Paul having sent for the disciples and exhorted them, took leave of them, and departed to go into Macedonia.

We closed our former chapter with Satan's defeat when he excited the mob against the servants of the Lord, but God vindicated them and brought them forth and gave them the victory. After this defeat, when the uproar had ceased, Paul had a farewell meeting with his disciples. Then he left the town and proceeded at once to go over to Macedonia and other places to strengthen the churches.

QUESTIONS.

• When had he the meeting with the church? 2 Cor. 7:5-12; 12:12.

• What other information about Paul's work? 2 Cor. 12:12; 7:5-12.

• What church did he visit?

• What book did he write?

  Second Corinthians was written about 57 A. D., after the experience of the mob (2 Cor. 1:8-10), while in Macedonia (2 Cor. 2:12-13), before arriving at Greece, where Corinth is located (20:2). Thus far we have four letters written by Paul, First and Second Thessalonians from Corinth, First Corinthians from Ephesus, and Second Corinthians from Macedonia.

(2) To Greece.—Acts 20:2-3.

(2) And when he had gone through those parts, and had given them much exhortation, he came into Greece. (3) And when he had spent three months there, and a plot was laid against him by the Jews as he was about to set sail for Syria, he determined to return through Macedonia.

Paul's original plan was to go from Ephesus to Corinth and then come north and go into Macedonia (2 Cor. 1:15, 16). He must have remained for some time in Macedonia. Paul was greatly disturbed about the church at Corinth and wondered what effect his letter might have on the church. While visiting churches in Macedonia, Titus brought him much more favorable news from the church at Corinth than it was anticipated his first letter might produce. He learned that the church had made some change for the better. He gave some advice concerning continued love for those who had erred and now had been brought to see the wrong. He also gave encouragement to the church to meet his wishes in getting ready the contribution for which he had asked. Letter written from Macedonia about A. D. 57. After writing this second letter Paul sent it by Titus to the church at Corinth.

Paul himself remained, for some time, with the churches in Macedonia, Philippi, Thessalonica and Berea. His stay in Macedonia was not without much anxiety concerning the church at Corinth (2 Cor. 7:5). However, he remained for some time in Macedonia after sending the letter by Titus, as that would give the Corinthian church time to consider and receive some help from his last letter. Luke does not give us any detailed account of his labors during the three months' work in the Corinthian church. It was during this period that he wrote the letters to Rome and Galatia.

We learned of Paul's earnest desire to visit the disciples at Rome, but his plans thus far had been interfered with by the Jews, and his visit prevented. Not knowing how soon he would get to Rome, he took occasion, at this time, to write this letter to the Roman Christians. The student finds what Paul said, true, " how large a letter." This may refer to actual handwriting, but everyone who has carefully studied Romans has found it to be one of the most difficult letters that he wrote. It was written about A. D. 57.

While at Corinth, he also learned of the Judaizing teachers, who were at work in the Galatian churches, and caused much disturbance among the Galatian disciples. They influenced the disciples against Paul, claiming he was without authority and not equal in authority with the Apostles who had organized and worked in Jerusalem. In this way they did much harm in the Galatian church, and in order that Paul might set himself right before these churches he sends them the Galatian letter, by Titus and two other brethren, whose names are not mentioned in the letter. This letter was written about the same time as the one to the Romans.

The Jews, who had not forgotten the defeat of Gallio, lay in wait that they might kill Paul when he was about to sail into Syria. It may be possible that their purpose was to accomplish this on board the ship. To go into Syria he would naturally leave from the port of Cenchrea, and because of this he was compelled to change his plans and return to Macedonia.

QUESTIONS.

• What was the purpose of this visit?

• How long was he with the Corinthian church?

• Why did they want to put him to death?

• How did Paul disappoint these enemies?

• What books did he write at Corinth on the second visit?

  Epistle to the Galatians, and the Epistle to the Romans, both written about A. D. 57 or 58.

(3) Journey from Corinth to Troas.—Acts 20:4-6.

(4) And there accompanied him as far as Asia, Sopater of Bercea, the son of Pyrrhus; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus, (5) But these had gone before and were waiting for us at Troas. (6) And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we tarried seven days.

During the three months' stay at Corinth the Apostle gave instruction according to his promise, concerning the things that were out of order in the Corinthian church. Having written the two important letters, as mentioned before, and received the collection for the saints in Judea, seven brethren accompanied him into Macedonia and then went before him into Asia, to wait at Troas for Paul and Luke. It may be possible that these brethren mentioned here were appointed by the different churches in which contributions were received, for the purpose of seeing that it would be delivered to the saints at Jerusalem and a report be made back to the church. The contributions had to be carried. There was some danger on account of robbers to take these collections, which were in silver, and therefore special need for these seven brethren to accompany him. Sopater was from Berea, Aristarchus and Secundus (second), probably so named because the second son, as were Tertius, third, and Quartus, fourth, from Thessalonica (Rom. 16:22-23). Since these three, second, third and fourth, were with Paul at Corinth, it is altogether probable that they were brothers. Gaius was from Derbe, Timothy, Tychicus and Trophimus were from Asia. The last two are new names among the companions of Paul. Tychicus, so often mentioned by Paul, a " beloved brother," a " faithful minister," was with the Apostle at Rome. Paul sent him to the churches at Ephesus (Col. 4:7; Eph. 6:21), and was also with him in his trying closing experience at Rome, while writing to Titus (Titus 3:12), and also while he wrote his last letter, his second letter to Timothy (2 Tim. 4:12). Trophimus was also a faithful companion of Paul, who is not forgotten by the Apostle in writing his very last, touching letter. He refers to him (2 Tim. 4:20) as being sick at Miletus when he had to leave there.

"These going before. " The seven persons mentioned accompanied Paul through Macedonia. Paul, however, remained in Macedonia, at Philippi, until the feast of the Passover. The other seven brethren had gone on to Troas. Paul may have stopped over, not only to spend the Passover season here, but to meet Luke, who had not been with Paul for about seven years. The last account we had of him was at this same place where Paul met him (16:16). In writing the account he used " we " for the last time, and in 20:5, 6 he again begins the use of "us" and "we," and so the beloved physician and penman, used by the Holy Spirit to write the book, has joined the Apostle, and after a voyage of five days they joined the brethren, who went before them to Troas.

The Apostle staid in Europe from the time he left the church at Ephesus up to this point, being from Pentecost to the Passover, covering a period of about nine months (1 Cor. 16:8; Acts 20:6), and if he left earlier than he had expected, because of the strong opposition, he may have been in Europe nearly a year. These seven brethren being here at Troas some time before Paul arrived, and Paul and Luke joining them, some of the work that was neglected on the former journeys may have received attention at this time. This was an opportunity for doing great things for the Lord, by a band of consecrated men, traveling under the direction of Jesus and having the Holy Spirit, their great Teacher, as a constant Companion.

QUESTIONS.

• Name the seven brethren and tell where they are from.

• What was probably the purpose of their being with Paul?

• Where did they tarry for Paul?

• What was Paul doing at Philippi and who joined him there?

• Why refer to the days of unleavened bread?

  To designate the time of year, the Passover, and to give us the time of nearly one year since Paul left Ephesus to continue his missionary labors in Europe. How long did they stay at Troas?

9. CHURCH SERVICES IN TROAS.

Acts 20:7-12.

(7) And upon the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break bread, Paul discoursed with them, intending to depart on the morrow; and prolonged his speech until midnight. (8) And there were many lights in the upper chamber where we were gathered together. (9) And there sat in the window a certain young man named Eutychus, borne down with deep sleep; and as Paul discoursed yet longer, being borne down by his sleep he fell down from the third story, and was taken up dead. (10) And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, Make ye no ado; for his life is in him, (11) And when he was gone up, and had broken the bread, and eaten, and had talked with them a long while, even till break of day, so he departed. (12) And they brought the lad alive, and were not a little comforted.

The last day of their stay at Troas was the Lord's Day, " The first day of the week." The seventh day ended at six o'clock in the evening. The Christian congregation met in an upper room on the third floor. This was the evening for the " love feast," accompanied, as was usual, with the celebration of the Lord's Supper. This was the day on which Jesus arose from the dead; it was the day on which the Holy Spirit was given; it is the period in the history of the church when the disciples came together,—the disciples then belonging to the Lord, not to some creed or denomination. (The division into sects or parties was then wholly unknown.) What a glorious meeting that must have been! The words of Jesus, " For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye proclaim the Lord's death till he come," must not be forgotten by the disciples. First, in them we show to the world that we believe that Jesus died and arose and lives as our Representative. Second, that we do not only believe that He is going to return sometime, but that we are looking for His return any day.

Previous to this feast Paul preached a very instructive sermon to the disciples, who had gathered on the Lord's Day, continuing his sermon until midnight, at which time an accident happened to Eutychus, who was one of the audience, and sitting on the window seat. Some of the members may have been slaves and were tired from the day's labor; and it may have been very warm in the room, so that Eutychus was completely overcome, and fell from the third story and was taken up dead. Paul immediately stopped his discourse, and went down and embraced him, and he was restored to life. Paul said to the bystanders, " Trouble not yourselves, for his life is in him." After performing this miracle he returned to the upper room, where the feast that had been disturbed by the accident was now celebrated.

These services continued the entire night. When they were ready to depart they brought forth the young man alive, and it was a great comfort to all that he could be returned to his neighbors and friends, as an example for greater inspiration for the followers of Christ in that community. These people, so deeply interested in religious matters, did not measure out their public services by so many minutes, but continued their services in harmony with their profound reverence for the Master, whose cause, they represented.

QUESTIONS.

• What service was held on the first day of the week?

• Who did the preaching?

  It was a special service of consecration, and Paul's farewell sermon exhorting the disciples to be loyal to their Master.

• What happened to Eutychus, and who restored him and how?

10. JOURNEY TO MILETUS.

Acts 20:13-16.

(13) But we, going before to the ship, set sail for Assos, there intending to take in Paul: for so had he appointed, intending himself to go by land (or, on foot). (41) And when he met us at Assos, we took him in, and came to Mitylene. (15) And sailing from thence, we came the following day over against Chios; and the next day we touched at Samos; and the day after we came to Miletus. (16) For Paul had determined to sail past Ephesus, that he might not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hastening, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.

This same company took ship to sail to Assos, a distance of about thirty miles, but Paul, for some reason not stated by the author, preferred to go by land himself, a distance of about twenty miles from Troas by road. Just why he preferred to be alone on this journey we can only conjecture, but a man on whose heart the Lord had laid the directing of the church affairs had plenty to do on this journey while walking, conversing with his Master concerning the best interests of the church. It was a time of communion and prayer. It is such a journey alone that equips men and women better for greater work for the Master. Is it a sacrifice to tear loose from our choicest earthly friends and companions of saints to walk with our truest and highest Friend and commune with Him?

Paul joined his companions at Assos and went with them by ship to Mitylene. The historian gives us nothing here but the passage from the one place to the other, simply mentioning the time it required to make the journey. Paul wanted to sail by Ephesus. If the ship had been under his control, he might have spent the time at Ephesus to a much better purpose than he had at Miletus. He was now at Miletus, which was thirty miles from Ephesus.

QUESTIONS.

• Where did Paul join his companions after leaving Troas and why?

• How far did he travel each day?

  (1) Monday, following the preaching on the Lord's Day, he left Troas and went to Mitylene.

  (2) Tuesday, from Mitylene to Chios.

  (3) Wednesday, from Chios to Samos.

  (4) Thursday he arrived at Miletus and sent word to the elders at Ephesus to meet him at this point. It took about this time, from Thursday to Saturday, to get word to the elders, and they made their journey from Ephesus to Miletus, a distance of about thirty miles.

• At what time did Paul desire to reach Jerusalem?

  At the time of one of the great Jewish feasts, called Pentecost. Paul was at Philippi at the time of the first great feast, Unleavened Bread or Passover, which was just fifty days before the feast he desired to attend at Jerusalem. At the close of the seven days' feast he spent five days on the journey to Troas, seven at Troas, the last day being the Lord's Day, and one week from that day he preached his farewell sermon to the Ephesian elders. In order to meet the Jews who would assemble at Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost he could not tarry long at any point.

11. PAUL'S FAREWELL ADDRESS TO THE EPHESIAN ELDERS.

Acts 20:17-38.

(1) A Review of His Past Three Years' Ministry.—Acts 20:17-21.

(17) And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called to him the elders of the church. (18) And when they were come to him, he said unto them,

Ye yourselves know, from the first day that I set foot in Asia, after what manner I v/as with you all the time, (19) serving the Lord with all lowliness of mind, and with tears, and with trials which befell me by the plots of the Jews; (20) how I shrank not from declaring unto you anything that was profitable, and teaching you publicly, and from house to house, (21) testifying both to Jews and to Greeks repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.

The vessel on which Paul expected to continue his journey remained only a few days at Miletus, which made it unsafe for him to go to Ephesus himself, for fear that he might not return in time, and thus defeat his purpose in being present in Jerusalem at the time of the feast. The elders, upon receiving the invitation to meet him at Miletus, came without delay. They arrived on the very day on which the vessel was to continue her voyage. Paul desired to have a farewell meeting with these faithful elders of the church in which he labored for three years, and impressed them with the responsibility resting upon them and gave them advice as to the best way of meeting it. These elders were acquainted with his labors from the first day until the last, and how he behaved under all circumstances. " The people have made false charges against me, that I did not speak with inspiration. I served the Lord with all humility, and the work was such that the tears ran freely; I was very patient and yet determined to continue the work for the Master under the trials which befell me through the secret plotting of the Jews. All these things did not hinder my zeal in the ministry and keep away anything that was profitable for you. I did not only speak in public, but I labored from house to house, with all classes, both Jews and Gentiles. The theme of my ministry to all classes was ' repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.' " He preached that the Jews and Gentiles were lost and could be saved only by repentance and faith.

QUESTIONS.

• On what day of the week did Paul preach the sermon, and how long had he been away from Ephesus?

• What about his spirit and zeal in the ministry?

  The largest house in the universe is God's house.

(2) Anticipated Persecution and Determination to Stay True to the Master to the End.—Acts 20:22-27.

(22) And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: (23) save that the Holy Spirit testifieth unto me in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. (24) But I hold not my life of any account as dear unto myself, so that I may accomplish my course, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel (or, good tidings) of the grace of God. (25) And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I went about preaching the kingdom, shall see my face no more. (26) Wherefore I testify unto you this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. (27) For I shrank not from declaring unto you the whole counsel of God.

He was on his way to Jerusalem. He was depressed in spirit, not knowing what awaited him. Supreme love was the motive back of a life that moved on under such conditions. But he said, " Nothing can move me. I count my obligations to Him who called me dearer than my life. It is in this way that I expect to reach the end with joy. And now I know that this will be our last meeting, and those of you who have been my companions in public and from house to house, laboring together in the ministry, shall see my face no more. It was my purpose to declare everything to you that was given me by the Lord, which was profitable to you, and therefore I know that you will bear evidence to the fact that I am in debt to no one, because under no circumstances did I fail to declare the whole counsel of God." This should certainly be a warning to all ambassadors of God, that they might be able to say in their farewell sermon what Paul said to those who knew him best, as he was about to leave them.

QUESTIONS.

• What was Paul's immediate purpose and how know what was awaiting him?

• Having met persecutions, and some more ahead of him, what did he decide to do? What was his sorrowful prediction?

• How did Paul feel as to his obligations to them?

(3) The Elders' Responsibility.—Acts 20:28-35.

(28) Take heed unto yourselves, and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit hath made you bishops (or, overseers), to feed the church of the Lord which he purchased (Gr. acquired) with his own blood. (29) I know that after my departing grievous wolves shall enter in among you, not sparing the flock; (30) and from among your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them. (31) Wherefore watch ye, remembering that by the space of three years I ceased not to admonish every one night and day with tears. (32) And now I commend you to God (some ancient authorities read "the Lord"), and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you the inheritance among all them that are sanctified. (33) I coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel. (34) Ye yourselves know that these hands ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. (35) In all things I gave you an example, that so laboring ye ought to help the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that he himself said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.

The Apostle spoke to these people about his special work for the three years passed in the church at Ephesus, the things that were awaiting him in the future, and what his purpose was in meeting conditions in whatever way presented, calling attention to his own labors and example of faithfulness in preaching the Gospel. He now turned his attention to the representatives of the church at Ephesus, warning them of their great responsibility to this church, being made overseers by the Holy Spirit. " This church, made up of individuals who are ' called-out ones,' and purchased by the precious blood of the Son of God, to feed a flock that has cost what this flock has cost, must be fed by men set aside by the Holy Spirit as ' feeders'. This flock is to grow, and the growth will show the kind of food they receive and by whom fed. There are many who by their feeding scatter the flock, and are not interested in the flock, but only interested in themselves. Now remember that this flock has cost tears night and day, to bring it to its healthy growth as it is now delivered into your keeping. In leaving you this great responsibility your only hope will be ' faithfulness to God, a constant companionship and study of the Word. This will help you to grow and give you an inheritance with the sanctified, After directing them to God and His Word he referred to the disinterested motives which animated him in his labors in their midst,—that at no time did he covet any man's wealth. Perhaps he held up his hands with which he labored so that he might at no time be charged as having labored with the motive for an increase in material wealth, but found the words of Jesus, " It is more blessed to give than to receive,,, true during his entire ministry.

QUESTIONS.

• Who had appointed the elders as overseers of the church?

• What value does he place upon the church of God?

• What kind of food will keep a church growing and healthy?

• What opposition must elders expect to meet?

  Grievous wolves, avowed enemies of the flock. They may come in sheep's clothing (Matt. 7:15), or under the guise of friends and teachers. The greatest danger was to come from members of the church who would be false, and by their influence lead others away from the truth.

• What was to be their source of guidance and strength? What kind of service must be given?

  It must be unselfish; they must learn that "it is more blessed to give than to receive."

(4) The Parting Blessing.—Acts 20:36-38.

(36) And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down and prayed with them all. (37) And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck and kissed him, (38) sorrowing most of all for the word which he had spoken, that they should behold his face no more. And they brought him on his way unto the ship.

At the conclusion of the address the whole company knelt together in prayer, which was offered up by Paul. What a prayer it must have been! Luke was there, and yet we have no record of the prayer itself. What an outpouring of the Spirit, as these leaders knelt together for the last time! They all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him. The main sorrow in this closing scene is that they should see his face no more. They accompanied him to the ship and it was with great difficulty that he could tear himself away from them, as he had been their spiritual father in Christ Jesus.

QUESTIONS.

• Describe the parting scene.

• Who had offered the parting prayer?

• What was the cause of the greatest sorrow?

12. JOURNEY FROM MILETUS TO TYRE.

Acts 21:1-6.

(1) And when it came to pass that we were parted from them and had set sail, we came with a straight course unto Cos, and the next day unto Rhodes, and from thence unto Patara: (2) and having found a ship crossing over unto Phoenicia, we went aboard, and set sail. (3) And when we had come in sight of Cyprus, leaving it on the left hand, we sailed unto Syria, and landed at Tyre; for there the ship was to unlade her burden. (4) And having found the disciples, we tarried there seven days: and these said to Paul through the Spirit, that he should not set foot in Jerusalem. (5) And when it came to pass that we had accomplished the days, we departed and went on our journey; and they all, with wives and children, brought us on our way till we were out of the city: and kneeling down on the beach, we prayed, and bade each other farewell; (6) and we went on board the ship, but they returned home again.

"After they had," that is, after the Apostle and his companions had torn themselves away from the brethren at Ephesus, they continued their journey by ship, about forty miles to Coos, and the following day from Coos to Rhodes, between forty and fifty miles, and then continued their journey from Rhodes to Patara, a seaport of Lycia. At this point the passengers changed vessels. They took the vessel sailing by the west coast of the Isle of Cyprus. The vessel went in an easterly direction, coming to the east coast of the Mediterranean Sea, it being bound for Syria. The name " Syria " was given to the whole eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea from Cilicia to Egypt. The vessel landed at Tyre, for there the ship was to unload her burden. This gave Paul and his companions an opportunity to meet the disciples at this place and hold religious services during the period the boat was stopping at this point. It would appear that it took some effort to find the disciples here. Some of these disciples, who were under the direction of the Spirit, urged Paul not to go to Jerusalem, but when the seven days were ended and Paul with his companions was ready to start, the believers at Tyre,—men, women and children,—accompanied them out of the city and had a prayer meeting by the seashore. These, as well as others, felt that this no doubt would be the last meeting they would be permitted to enjoy together. After this farewell prayer, the disciples at Tyre returned to their homes, and Paul and his companions continued on their journey by ship.

QUESTIONS.

• When did Paul leave Ephesus?

• Describe the journey in full from Miletus to Tyre.

• At what point in Syria did they land?

  Tyre, which is about one hundred miles north of Jerusalem.

• What was Paul's first mission after reaching Tyre?

  He had passed through this district before and others had labored here so he was not disappointed in church fellowship at this place.

• How did the Christians know at Tyre about the danger awaiting Paul at Jerusalem?

• How did the church members express their appreciation?

  Fathers, mothers, and children accompanied him, and enjoyed a prayer meeting on the shore before he left.

13. PAUL'S JOURNEY FROM TYRE, AND VISIT AT CAESAREA.

Acts 21:7-14.

(7) And when we had finished the voyage from Tyre, we arrived at Ptolemais; and we saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day. (8) And on the morrow we departed, and came unto Caesarea: and entering into the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven, we abode with him. (9) Now this man had four virgin daughters, who prophesied. (10) And as we tarried there some days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus. (11) And coming to us, and taking Paul's girdle, he bound his own feet and hands, and said, Thus saith the Holy Spirit, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles. (12) And when we heard these things, both we and they of that place besought him not to go up to Jerusalem. (13) Then Paul answered, What do ye, weeping and breaking my heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus. (14) And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done.

The vessel on which they traveled did not go any further than Ptolemais. Here they found a Christian community and remained one day. It no doubt was all the time that Paul felt he could spare, and after his usual exhortations and entreaties, he with his company departed on foot to Caesarea. Here was the home of a Christian man who had been under the Master's direction for many years. He was one of the seven deacons, held the great revival in Samaria, helped the Ethiopian to find the Lord and then baptized him, was up and down along the coast, preaching the Gospel, and now, no doubt, was the pastor of the church in the town Paul was visiting. Their stay in Caesarea lasted several days. While this man did great work for the Lord, he had four daughters who also prophesied. In the early church women were admitted into the public service for the Master. While they tarried in this spiritual home there came down from Judea a prophet, named Agabus. During his stay with them he took Paul's girdle and with it bound his own hands and feet, and said to Paul and his companions, as well as to those who had gathered in the house of Philip, that the Holy Spirit told him that the Jews at Jerusalem would bind the man that owned the girdle, and after binding him would deliver him over to the Gentiles. After receiving this information, the companions with Paul, as well as those who had assembled, united their efforts and with tears tried to persuade Paul not to continue his journey to Jerusalem. The Holy Spirit had informed this company concerning Paul's binding and deliverance, but the Holy Spirit had told Paul to go, and he had to be obedient to the Heavenly voice and could not listen to the pleadings of his fellow disciples.

"By your pleading you make it harder for me to carry out the wish of the Holy Spirit, for I am ready not only to be bound, but to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." Then when they realized that he could not be persuaded and that he was under the direction of a Higher Law, they said, "The will of the Lord be done."

QUESTIONS.

• Where did he complete the sea voyage?

  At Ptolemais, about thirty miles south of Tyre.

• When did they arrive and how long did they remain?

  They arrived about evening and remained over the next day, Tuesday.

• When did they arrive at Caesarea?

  They left Ptolemais Wednesday, May 10, and remained until about the 15th. They traveled by land around Mount Carmel (which was eight miles south of Ptolemais) along the coast for thirty or forty miles to Caesarea. Describe the work Peter did at one time at Caesarea. With whom did Paul and his company abide?

• Give history of Philip and his laborers.

• Give description of what the prophet said about Paul going to Jerusalem.

• What effect had his prediction on Paul's companions and in what way did they make his mission more difficult?

14. PAUL'S JOURNEY FROM CAESAREA TO JERUSALEM.

Acts 21:15-17.

(15) And after these days we took up (or, made ready) our baggage and went up to Jerusalem. (16) And there went with us also certain of the disciples from Caesarea, bringing with them one Mnason of Cyprus, an early disciple, with whom we should lodge.

(17) And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.

After the day spent at Caesarea, with the brethren, they. prepared their baggage, which they carried as they proceeded on their journey to Jerusalem. Paul was going into the city with everything he had. Luke tells us (24:17) what his mission was at Jerusalem, as well as what some of this baggage contained. Some disciples from Caesarea accompanied Paul. Among the number was a man from Cyprus. He was a Hellenist, a member of the church for some time, as he belonged to the early disciples. He sympathized with the work among the Gentiles. This man owned a house at Jerusalem, and it was just the place to have Paul and his associates lodge during the Feast of Pentecost. They had to travel a distance of about seventy miles, from Caesarea to Jerusalem. When they arrived at Jerusalem they received a very hearty welcome from the brethren.

QUESTIONS.

• Why say "after those days"?

  It took about two days to go to Jerusalem. The Feast of Pentecost must just about then have been at hand, and a great multitude of Jews were present when Paul arrived. Paul met some brethren from the different provinces with whom he was acquainted.

• What is meant by "we took up our carriages"?

  It means baggage. It was what the men carried. Who was Mnason?

• How were they received in Jerusalem?

• How many visits did he make after his conversion and give an account of each?