Alex Kremer - 04-16-2023 // Who Are You, Again? Acts 19:8-20

During his second missionary journey, Paul stayed more than two years in Ephesus, preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  This great message was attested to by great signs and wonders, showing the power of God and His authority granted to Paul in the message.  The passage summarizes the result this way, "the word of the Lord spread widely and grew in power." (Acts 19:20 LSB)

But as with any preaching of the Gospel, there are a variety of responses.  Some accept the message gladly, resulting in a changed life.  Others become stubborn and resist the message of the Gospel, even intending violence against the messengers.  And still others, enamored by the power, or notoriety, which accompanied the message, seek to capitalize on the movement for their own purposes.

See what happens when seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, attempt to drive out demons, "in the name of Jesus, whom Paul preaches."  They quickly learn that without the saving work of Jesus in one's life, and the indwelling Holy Spirit, there is no authority present.

Thank you for listening to today's lesson.  We pray you will be blessed through the teaching of God's Holy Word.