Skip to main content

Acts-19

The Power of God's Word: A Devotional Study on Acts 19​

Introduction​

In Acts 19, the apostle Paul continues his missionary journeys, traveling to the city of Ephesus in ancient Asia Minor. As he preaches the word of God, we see a powerful display of the gospel's transformative impact. As we delve into this chapter, let’s explore the profound truths and spiritual insights buried within.

Section 1: The Influential Rhetorician (Acts 19:1-7)​

Devotional Thought: Paul encounters a Jewish exorcist by the name of Saulius in Ephesus. This man was known for his reputation as an influential and powerful rhetorician. However, Paul's teachings on Jesus as the Son of God proved too much for this man to handle. The presence and power of Jesus Christ brought the man to his knees, causing him to renounce his previous beliefs. May we too, encounter the transformative power of God's word and renounce false beliefs.

Reflection Questions:

  • Have you encountered false beliefs that hinder your ability to trust in Jesus Christ?
  • How can you begin to renounce these beliefs and embrace the truth of God's word?

Section 2: The Outpouring of the Holy Spirit (Acts 19:8-12)​

Devotional Thought: The believers in Ephesus had only received the laying on of hands and not the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Paul administered this baptism, causing the people to speak in tongues and prophesy. May we too, be filled with the Holy Spirit and experience His mighty work within us.

Reflection Questions:

  • Have you experienced the baptism of the Holy Spirit?
  • How can you actively seek the filling of the Holy Spirit in your life?

Section 3: The Rise of False Teaching (Acts 19:13-20)​

Devotional Thought: The Ephesians encounter a group known as "the sons of Sceva." These men claimed to be disciples of Paul but they did not have the same anointing. Their ineffective exorcism leads to injury. May we distinguish between true discipleship and false doctrine, recognizing the transformative power of God's word.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can you discern between true discipleship and false doctrine?
  • In what ways can you protect yourself from the influence of false teaching?

Section 4: The Power of God's Word Over Demonic Opposition (Acts 19:21-22)​

Devotional Thought: Paul's teaching on the kingdom of God leads to intense persecution from the people of Ephesus. Many fall to their knees and decry Paul's message as a threat to their beliefs. The power of God's word proves to be greater than any demonic opposition or false doctrine. May we trust in the power of God's word in the face of opposition.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can you trust in the power of God's word in the face of opposition?
  • In what ways can you stand firm in the truth of God's word?

Conclusion:​

As we conclude our devotional study on Acts 19, let's stand in awe of the unstoppable power of God's word. May we capture the transformative impact of His word in our own lives, seeking to renounce false beliefs, discern true discipleship, and trust in the power of His word in the face of opposition.