Acts 19:36

Seeing then that these things cannot be spoken against, ye ought to be quiet, and to doe nothing rashly. Acts 19:36 (KJV)

“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.” Acts 19:27 is part of the narrative describing an event that took place in the city of Ephesus. At that time Ephesus was renowned for its temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis (also known as Diana), which was considered one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. The temple held significant religious and cultural importance not only locally but also throughout the region of Asia and beyond.

In the preceding verses a silversmith named Demetrius had gathered other craftsmen who made a living creating silver shrines and statues of Artemis. Their trade was closely tied to the worship of the goddess, for people purchased these religious items to honor Artemis. Demetrius called a meeting and expressed his concern that the teachings of the apostle Paul, who had been preaching in Ephesus, were causing a decline in the worship of Artemis. He feared that the spread of Christianity would not only diminish their business but also undermine the importance and magnificence of the temple and the goddess herself.

These verses capture the essence of Demetrius’ argument. He states that their craft, referring to their occupation as silversmiths, is in danger of being devalued or disregarded because of Paul’s influence. He also emphasizes that the temple of Artemis is at risk of being despised and its magnificence destroyed, noting that “whom all Asia and the world worshippeth” underscores the widespread reverence for the goddess.

The passage highlights the economic and religious implications of the Christian message spreading in Ephesus. It demonstrates how Paul’s teachings challenged existing religious and economic structures, threatening the livelihood of those involved in the production and sale of religious artifacts. The subsequent verses recount the uproar that arose among the people of Ephesus in response to Demetrius’ speech, leading to a riot. Ultimately the city clerk intervened, calming the situation and reminding the crowd that legal channels existed to address their concerns.

Acts 19 therefore provides a historical record offering insight into the societal context and the opposition faced by early Christians as they spread the message of Jesus Christ. It reveals the power dynamics between established religious practices and the emerging faith of Christianity, shedding light on the challenges faced by believers in the early church.