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We continue our studies in Acts 19, where we read of Paul's comprehensive ministry in Ephesus. We have a duty and a responsibility to exercise a full wholesome ministry in line with our calling.

When Paul arrives and meets with these disciples of Jesus, he discerns that something is missing, and Paul is concerned that these disciples of Jesus Christ have everything God wants them to have - as early on as possible. These were important crucial areas - Baptism in water - and - Baptism in the Holy Spirit - areas which are frequently overlooked or ignored today, for fear that they might be 'controversial'.

We read that the twelve men for whom Paul prays speak in tongues and prophesy. This is not just for a certain select few.

Paul spends two years preaching and teaching the Word of God for perhaps around 5 hours a day. We know that that lecture hall was available between 11,4.

Then a series of amazing miracles happen. The presence of God is so powerful that even disciples of Jesus come and deal with things in their own lives that were not dealt with earlier on.

These disciples realised that they were not what they should be. They know it - they are aware of it - and they do something about it. When the Spirit of God is moving, that does happen. Publicly and openly they get rid of things they should never have had in their lives anyway - certainly, things that should not be held onto for old times sake.

I remember a woman saying to me that she could not come to the Worship Services on a Sunday because of where she was going and what she was doing on the Saturday.

It should have been the other way round - because she was worshipping the Living God on Sundays - and hopefully on other days too - then she would have had the taste for the Saturday activities removed.

Verse 23. Paul's preaching, teaching, and healing ministry in Ephesus caused quite an upset. This often happens and we have to be prepared for such reaction.

The silversmiths, who made their money, making idols to be worshipped, began to lose trade, as people were beginning to worship the Living God. Verse 26.

They had been on to a good thing, but Paul's ministry began to hit their pockets. There was a wave of uncontrolled confusion. There was a riot.

Here we see the opposition of those who were losing money as a result of the preaching of the Lordship of Jesus Christ, and the Kingdom of God.

When the Holy Spirit moves, wicked and evil financial interests are affected. Business was bad for Demetrius and the other silversmiths. As people were born again, they had no desire, nor any need, for idols - so demand fell.

As people were born again - the tide turned - circumstances changed - and many were not pleased. Do not think that certain interests will remain quiet if this were to happen again.

If evil wicked people are interested in making money immorally - from pornography - occult involvement - and a whole range of questionable activities - do not think that they will remain quiet and leave disciples of Jesus Christ alone.

When God moves, there is revival and riot - blessing and battles - and we must be prepared for all kinds of consequences. This is a profoundly serious passage and has much to teach us. Study it with prayerful consideration.

"Chip Shots from the Ruff of Life" from Tom Kelley

Choking can be Hazardous to Your Eternal Health