What lessons from Acts 19:35 can help us defend our faith respectfully? The Verse and Its Setting Acts 19:35: “Finally the city clerk quieted the crowd and said, ‘Men of Ephesus, what man is there who does not know that the city of the Ephesians is the guardian of the temple of the great Artemis and of her image that fell from heaven?’” Lesson 1: Begin by Calming the Storm • The clerk “quieted the crowd,” choosing composure over confrontation. • A calm spirit invites listening (Proverbs 15:1). • When challenged, respond with steady confidence, reflecting the peace of Christ (John 14:27). Lesson 2: Speak with Respect for Your Audience • He addresses them as “Men of Ephesus,” honoring their dignity. • 1 Peter 3:15 reminds us to give an answer “with gentleness and respect.” • Respectful language opens hearts that harsh words would close. Lesson 3: Appeal to Common Ground • The clerk refers to what “everyone knows” about Artemis. • Paul does likewise at Mars Hill—quoting their poets before proclaiming Jesus (Acts 17:22-23). • Find shared understandings—creation, morality, history—then gently introduce the gospel’s fuller truth. Lesson 4: Ground Your Defense in Truth, Not Emotion • He states accepted facts instead of attacking feelings. • Emotions flare; facts endure. Our defense rests on the unchanging Word (Psalm 119:89). • Present clear evidence: fulfilled prophecy, Christ’s resurrection, personal testimony. Lesson 5: Uphold Order and Integrity • The clerk’s goal is civic peace, not winning an argument. • Romans 13:1-2 urges submission to rightful authority. • In debate, preserve order: no insults, no slander, no manipulation. Integrity magnifies the gospel. Lesson 6: Trust God’s Sovereign Oversight • Though pagan, the official unknowingly protects the missionaries; God rules over unbelievers too (Proverbs 21:1). • His providence lets us speak boldly yet humbly, knowing He controls outcomes (Acts 18:9-10). |
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