Acts 19:23-41
Q.1. Who were these followers of the Way? Who was Demetrius? What was his complaint against Paul? – (Acts 19:23-27)
A common name given to believers was ‘Followers of the Way’, since Jesus had identified Himself as being – the way, the truth, and the life (Jn.14:6). Their basic beliefs clashed with the those of the idol worship of Artemis, which – … was bringing no little business to the craftsmen (Acts 19:24). Demetrius was one of the leading silversmiths. The ministry of Paul brought a dramatic turning from idol worship amongst the Ephesians. This impacted Demetrius’s trade – … this Paul has persuaded and turned away a considerable number of people, saying that gods made with hands are no gods at all (Acts 19:26 c.f. Acts 19:18-19).
Q.2. Why did Paul’s friends stop him from addressing the crowds? How did the town clerk quieten the riot? – (Acts 19:28-41)
Demetrius stirred up a riot. The mob dragged Paul’s companions, Gaius, and Aristarchus into the city. Paul wanted to intervene but was stopped by his political friends. As often happens, most of the people had no idea what the reason for the riot was. However, that didn’t stop them shouting for some two hours (Acts 19:32-34). Eventually, the town clerk convinced them to disperse, since those apprehended had committed no capital offence, and a continuation might bring stronger measures against the unlawful gathering (Acts 19:35-41).