What is the meaning of Acts 19:36? Since The city clerk begins with a clear appeal to reason. He is addressing an agitated crowd in Ephesus that has been stirred up by Demetrius and the silversmiths who fear for their trade (Acts 19:23-29). By opening with “since,” he grounds his argument in facts already known to everyone present—facts that cannot be disputed. That same approach—starting with truth before emotion—mirrors Scriptural wisdom: • Acts 17:2-3 – Paul “reasoned with them from the Scriptures.” • Isaiah 1:18 – “Come now, let us reason together.” When we confront tension or controversy, Scripture calls us to begin with what is true and evident, not with speculation or fear. these things The “things” refer to two realities acknowledged by the entire city (Acts 19:35): • The greatness of Artemis, whose image was reputedly “fallen from heaven.” • The evident fact that Paul’s company had neither robbed temples nor blasphemed the goddess. By naming what both sides already accept, the clerk models the biblical principle of establishing common ground (Acts 15:7-11; 1 Corinthians 9:20-22). It is easier to seek peace when we first recognize shared truths. are undeniable The clerk testifies that these facts are beyond contradiction, echoing the biblical certainty that truth stands firm: • Acts 4:16 – The Sanhedrin admits, “It is evident to all… and we cannot deny it.” • 2 Corinthians 13:8 – “For we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth.” • John 3:2 – Nicodemus concedes that Jesus is from God “for no one could perform the signs You are doing if God were not with him.” Acknowledging undeniable truth disarms hostility and points us back to God’s unchanging Word. you ought to be calm After establishing facts, the clerk exhorts the crowd to composure. Scripture consistently pairs truth with peaceable conduct: • James 1:19-20 – “Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness of God.” • Romans 12:18 – “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” • Proverbs 15:1 – “A gentle answer turns away wrath.” Believers must demonstrate calm trust in God’s sovereignty rather than letting fear or economic concern dictate our reactions. and not do anything rash Finally, the clerk warns against impulsive action that could bring Roman retaliation (Acts 19:40). Scripture frequently links haste with folly: • Proverbs 19:2 – “Whoever makes haste with his feet misses the way.” • Proverbs 14:29 – “Whoever is quick-tempered exalts folly.” • Psalm 37:8 – “Refrain from anger and forsake wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil.” God calls His people to measured obedience, trusting that He will defend truth without the need for reckless behavior (Acts 5:39). summary Acts 19:36 shows a pagan official unwittingly reinforcing biblical wisdom: begin with undeniable truth, stay calm, and avoid rash actions. For Christians, the verse underscores that God’s truth is unwavering, peaceable conduct is commanded, and hasty anger undermines both witness and wisdom. |
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