# Day 340

# Confusion in Ephesus

Part One
Acts 19:18–31

Some magicians in Ephesus became believers and burned their magic books in public. So the Lord’s word grew mightily and remained.

Then a huge commotion broke out. The temple of an idol named Diana was big business in Ephesus. A silversmith named Demetrius made and sold little shrines for this goddess. He called together all the workers in his trade. “We get all our money from this business,” he said. “But Paul says that handmade gods aren’t gods! Large groups of people have believed him. Our business may be ruined. Also, the temple of the great goddess Diana will be scorned. Her majesty, the praise of all Asia, will be destroyed.”

This news enraged the silversmiths. “Great is Diana of the Ephesians!” they shouted. The city was filled with confusion. Everyone rushed together to the city’s theater. Gaius and Aristarchus, Paul’s friends, were dragged with them. Paul wanted to go into the crowd. Of course, his disciples wouldn’t let him do this. Some of Asia’s rulers were Paul’s friends. They warned, “Don’t go into the theater!”

Questions: Why did Demetrius call together the other silversmiths? What did Paul say about gods that are made by hand?