Topical Bible: Tyrannus: Paul Taught in the School of, for Two Years

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Topical Encyclopedia

The name Tyrannus is associated with a significant period in the Apostle Paul's missionary work, specifically during his third missionary journey. The reference to Tyrannus is found in the Book of Acts, where it is mentioned that Paul utilized a facility known as the "school of Tyrannus" to teach and spread the Gospel message.

Biblical Reference:
The primary scriptural reference to Tyrannus is found in Acts 19:9-10 : "But when some of them stubbornly refused to believe and publicly maligned the Way, Paul took the disciples and left the synagogue to conduct daily discussions in the lecture hall of Tyrannus. This continued for two years, so that everyone who lived in the province of Asia, both Jews and Greeks, heard the word of the Lord."

Historical Context:
The school of Tyrannus was located in Ephesus, a major city in the Roman province of Asia, known for its cultural and commercial significance. Ephesus was a hub of pagan worship, particularly the cult of Artemis, and a center for learning and philosophy. The "school" or "lecture hall" of Tyrannus likely served as a venue for philosophical and rhetorical instruction, a common feature in Greco-Roman cities.

Paul's Ministry in Ephesus:
Paul's decision to use the school of Tyrannus came after facing opposition in the local synagogue. By relocating to this neutral venue, Paul was able to reach a broader audience, including both Jews and Gentiles. The use of the school allowed for daily teaching and discussions, facilitating an intensive period of ministry that lasted for two years. This strategic move enabled the dissemination of the Gospel throughout the region, as indicated by the text stating that "everyone who lived in the province of Asia...heard the word of the Lord."

Significance of the School of Tyrannus:
The school of Tyrannus represents a pivotal moment in Paul's missionary efforts. It highlights the adaptability and resourcefulness of Paul in the face of opposition. By choosing a secular venue for his teachings, Paul was able to engage with a diverse audience, fostering the growth of the early Christian church in a major urban center. This period of teaching contributed significantly to the establishment and strengthening of the Christian community in Ephesus and the surrounding areas.

Theological Implications:
From a theological perspective, Paul's use of the school of Tyrannus underscores the importance of perseverance and innovation in ministry. It reflects the early church's commitment to spreading the Gospel beyond traditional Jewish settings, embracing a mission to all peoples. This approach aligns with the Great Commission, as Paul sought to make disciples of all nations, utilizing every available opportunity to proclaim the message of Christ.

Legacy:
The impact of Paul's ministry in Ephesus, facilitated by his time in the school of Tyrannus, is evident in the subsequent growth of the Ephesian church. The city later became a significant center for early Christianity, as evidenced by its mention in the Book of Revelation as one of the seven churches of Asia. The legacy of this period is a testament to the enduring power of the Gospel and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit through the faithful efforts of the Apostle Paul.

Nave's Topical Index

Acts 19:9,10
But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spoke evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Two Fruitful Years
... John had heralded, that John had himself taught that his ... the disciples in 'the school
of Tyrannus.' He was ... been relatively weaker, to allow of Paul's going on ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture the acts/two fruitful years.htm

The Conversion of Apollos, his Character, and the Ministry of Paul ...
... in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the ... Paul, about two years before, had
been prevented, as has ... his labours in the school of Tyrannus, he remained ...
/.../killen/the ancient church/chapter viii the conversion of.htm

From Antioch to the Destruction of Jerusalem.
... 3) Two years of teaching in the school of Tyrannus. ... two years had liberty of speech
and taught whoever would ... but it is commonly believed that Paul was released ...
/.../tidwell/the bible period by period/chapter xx from antioch to.htm

Acts XIX
... But the apostles taught as Peter did on the day ... the disciples, discussing daily in
the school of one Tyrannus. ... unusual miracles by the hands of Paul, (12) so ...
/.../mcgarvey/a commentary on acts of the apostles/acts xix.htm

Paul in Ephesus.
... was revered for the authority with which he taught, and for ... the disciples to the
school of Tyrannus, in which ... of Asia heard the word during Paul's residence in ...
/.../dick/lectures on the acts of the apostles/lecture xxii paul in ephesus.htm

Days of Toil and Trial
... company of believers who met in the school of Tyrannus were an ... Paul's labors in Ephesus
were concluded ... He had taught the people in public and from house to house ...
/.../white/the acts of the apostles/lesson 28 days of toil.htm

The Church History of Eusebius. Index of Subjects.
... Aristotelian school, [350]318 ... 419]313; petitioned to adjudicate the case of Paul
of Samosata ... 627]150 (note 5); spoken of as God (theologeitai), 247; taught to be ...
/.../pamphilius/the life of constantine/the church history of eusebius.htm

Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus.
... six years, and again after an interval for two more, where ... in life and character
and learning; and Paul the old ... all of them friends of God, who taught me those ...
/.../various/life and works of rufinus with jeromes apology against rufinus /