Chapter 19
Chapter Outline
Paul instructs the disciples of John at (1–7)
Ephesus.
He teaches there. (8–12)
The Jewish exorcists disgraced. Some (13–20)
Ephesians burn their evil books.
The tumult at Ephesus. (21–31)
The tumult appeased. (32–41)Verses 1–7
Paul, at Ephesus, found some religious persons, who looked to Jesus as the Messiah. They had
not been led to expect the miraculous powers of the Holy Ghost, nor were they informed that the
gospel was especially the ministration of the Spirit. But they spake as ready to welcome the notice
of it. Paul shows them that John never design that those he baptized should rest there, but told them
that they should believe on Him who should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. They thankfully
accepted the discovery, and were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. The Holy Ghost came
upon them in a surprising, overpowering manner; they spake with tongues, and prophesied, as the
apostles and the first Gentile coverts did. Though we do not now expect miraculous powers, yet
all who profess to be disciples of Christ, should be called on to examine whether they have received
the seal of the Holy Ghost, in his sanctifying influences, to the sincerity of their faith. Many seem
not to have heard that there is a Holy Ghost, and many deem all that is spoken concerning his graces
and comforts, to be delusion. Of such it may properly be inquired, “Unto what, then, were ye
baptized?” for they evidently know not the meaning of that outward sign on which they place great
dependence.
Verses 8–12
When arguments and persuasions only harden men in unbelief and blasphemy, we must separate
ourselves and others from such unholy company. God was pleased to confirm the teaching of these
holy men of old, that if their hearers believed them not, they might believe the works.
Verses 13–20
It was common, especially among the Jews, for persons to profess or to try to cast out evil
spirits. If we resist the devil by faith in Christ, he will flee from us; but if we think to resist him by
the using of Christ's name, or his works, as a spell or charm, Satan will prevail against us. Where
there is true sorrow for sin, there will be free confession of sin to God in every prayer and to man
whom we have offended, when the case requires it. Surely if the word of God prevailed among us,
many lewd, infidel, and wicked books would be burned by their possessors. Will not these Ephesian