New Testament
Acts 19:28
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When they heard this, they were filled with rage and began shouting, "Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!"
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And when they heard these sayings, they were full of wrath, and cried out, saying, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.
What Acts 19:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, a group of people reacted strongly to what they heard. They were so upset that they shouted praises to their goddess, Artemis, who was a significant figure in their culture. This outburst shows how deeply their beliefs were tied to their identity and community. The mention of Artemis stirred emotions, leading to a collective response that highlighted their devotion. It’s a reminder of how powerful cultural symbols can be in shaping our reactions. When faced with challenges to our beliefs, we might also respond passionately, sometimes without considering the consequences. This scene illustrates the intensity of human emotions and the lengths people will go to defend what they hold dear. It’s a vivid example of how communities can rally around shared values, even in the face of opposition. Understanding this can help us navigate our own responses to differing beliefs and the importance of dialogue over conflict in our lives today. It encourages us to reflect on what we value and how we express that in our communities.
How to apply Acts 19:28 to your life
When faced with challenges to your beliefs, consider how you respond. Are your reactions driven by passion or reflection? Engage in conversations that promote understanding rather than conflict. This can help build bridges and foster respect among differing viewpoints in your community. Reflect on what truly matters to you and express it thoughtfully. “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!” can remind us of the power of shared beliefs.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Paul's story: “Great Is Artemis” (Acts 19:23–41)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Acts 19:28
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Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 19:28 reveal about the worship of Artemis?
Acts 19:28 highlights the intense devotion of the Ephesians to their goddess Artemis, also known as Diana. The verse shows how deeply their cultural identity was intertwined with their religious beliefs. When faced with a challenge to their faith, the crowd's immediate reaction was one of rage and a loud proclamation of their goddess's greatness, illustrating the powerful emotions tied to their worship and the significance of Artemis in their community.
Why did the crowd react with rage in Acts 19:28?
The crowd's rage in Acts 19:28 was a response to perceived threats against their beliefs and cultural identity. The context of the verse suggests that the teachings of Paul were challenging the worship of Artemis, which was central to Ephesus's identity. This provoked a passionate reaction, as the people felt their values and way of life were being attacked, leading them to rally around their goddess in defense of their beliefs.
How can Acts 19:28 apply to modern discussions about beliefs?
Acts 19:28 serves as a reminder of how strongly people can react to challenges against their beliefs. In modern discussions, it encourages us to reflect on our responses—whether they are driven by passion or thoughtful consideration. The verse highlights the importance of engaging in respectful dialogue rather than conflict, promoting understanding among differing viewpoints. It invites us to examine what we value and how we express those values in our communities.
What cultural significance does Artemis hold in Acts 19:28?
In Acts 19:28, Artemis represents not only a deity but also the cultural identity of the Ephesians. She was worshipped as a goddess of fertility and the protector of the city, making her central to the community's values and traditions. The crowd's outcry reflects their collective identity and the importance of Artemis in their lives, showcasing how cultural symbols can evoke strong emotional responses and unite people in defense of their shared beliefs.
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