Acts 19:11-41

“And a number of those who had practiced magic arts brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all” (v19).  The people of the mighty city of Ephesus, worshippers of the goddess Artemis (v27), were familiar with spiritual power and economic power.  In fact, Jewish exorcists tried to use Paul’s power, not understanding the necessity of knowing Jesus Himself (v13).  Then, as people began to repent of their old ways, the whole town fell into an uproar, because their society and economy were being threatened (v23-29).   

“The Word of the Lord continued to increase and prevail mightily” (v20). God’s Word prevailed in Ephesus and changed the city not because of worldly power, but because Jesus was transforming lives.