How can we avoid causing "no small disturbance" in our Christian communities today? Setting the Scene in Ephesus “About that time there arose a great disturbance about the Way.” (Acts 19:23) • Paul’s preaching undercut idol sales, threatening livelihoods. • Merchants rallied the city; emotions flared; the church became the focal point of civic unrest. Why the Disturbance Happened • Economic self-interest was challenged (vv. 24-27). • Civic pride in Artemis was wounded (v. 28). • Crowd mentality spread confusion (vv. 32-34). • Truth clashed with entrenched idolatry (v. 26). Timeless Warning Signals • When personal profit or reputation feels threatened by the gospel’s advance. • When cultural identity is elevated above allegiance to Christ. • When rumors outrun facts and mobs replace thoughtful dialogue. Scriptural Reminders That Calm the Storm • “For God is not a God of disorder but of peace.” (1 Corinthians 14:33) • “Let us therefore pursue what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” (Romans 14:19) • “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:3) • “The wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving…peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.” (James 3:17-18) Practices That Prevent Unrest Among Believers 1. Keep Christ Central • Guard against modern idols—status, politics, money, methods—anything that rivals wholehearted devotion. • “Little children, keep yourselves from idols.” (1 John 5:21) 2. Speak Truth with Grace • Correct error boldly yet gently (2 Timothy 2:24-25). • Avoid exaggeration and rumor; verify facts before sharing. 3. Pursue Transparent Relationships • Regularly confess sins and forgive quickly (Colossians 3:13). • Address grievances face-to-face, not through gossip (Matthew 18:15). 4. Value People over Programs • Ministry strategies may change; love for one another must not (John 13:34-35). • Hold methods loosely, Scripture tightly. 5. Honor Authority and Order • Submit to godly leadership (Hebrews 13:17). • Leaders, shepherd gently, not domineeringly (1 Pt 5:2-3). 6. Pray and Fast When Tensions Rise • Seek God’s wisdom before reacting (Philippians 4:6-7). • Invite impartial counsel from mature believers (Proverbs 15:22). When Conflict Erupts Despite Our Efforts • Remember the real enemy is spiritual (Ephesians 6:12). • Maintain a clear conscience; do not retaliate (Romans 12:17-18). • Trust God’s sovereignty; Paul’s gospel advance continued even after the riot (Acts 20:1). Living Peaceably Without Compromise • Peace never means diluting truth; Paul refused to stop preaching. • Truth never justifies belligerence; he relied on lawful means and left vengeance to God. • The balance: “Speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15). Outcome We Aim For • A community marked by “righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17). • Outsiders compelled, not repelled, by the harmony of believers (John 17:21). |
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