Week 37: Paul in Ephesus (Part 1)
Verses Covered: Acts 19:1-22
The Baptism of the Disciples in Ephesus
- Paul found disciples in Ephesus who had only received John’s baptism. He explained the significance of being baptized in the name of Jesus, and they were baptized in the Holy Spirit, speaking in tongues and prophesying.
Paul’s Miraculous Ministry
- Paul’s ministry in Ephesus was marked by extraordinary miracles. People were healed by simply touching handkerchiefs and aprons that Paul had used.
- Many in Ephesus, including magicians, renounced their practices and burned their scrolls, demonstrating a dramatic change in their lives after encountering the power of God.
The Word of the Lord Spread
- Paul stayed in Ephesus for two years, teaching daily. As a result, the message of the Gospel spread widely across the region of Asia.
Life Applications:
- Be willing to receive deeper spiritual understanding, as the disciples in Ephesus did when Paul explained the significance of Jesus’ baptism.
- Remember that God’s power can work through unexpected means, as seen in Paul’s miraculous ministry.
- When we follow Jesus, we must be willing to leave behind any sinful or unholy practices, as the Ephesians did when they burned their scrolls.
Discussion Questions:
- Why was it important for the disciples in Ephesus to understand the baptism of Jesus?
- How can we recognize God’s power working in our lives today?
- What are some things we might need to “burn” or leave behind to fully follow Jesus?