Acts 19:21-41 – Unhappy People

Read Acts 19:21-41

We see some serious backlash in today’s reading. There will always be people that don’t choose to follow Christ. Think of the conflict going on for those working with the silversmith with the contract for all the goddess shrines. It’s one thing to watch your business start to evaporate. What happens when you believe in God’s word and realize your job is a lie?

It sounds like the former was the case here. Not only did they fear lost wages but also their beloved goddess was losing her credibility. For those listening to Paul and believing his message, Artemis’ credibility was shot. So, thanks to the silversmith,  Demetrius, the community is in chaos and a riot ensues. Paul wants desperately to sort it all out, but thankfully other believers keep him out of harm’s way.

As with most riots, there are a few that really ignite passions, stir up anger, and before long it has gone out of control. There will always be innocent people caught up in the commotion who don’t even really know why they are there or what cause they are fighting about. In this case, the passage reads that “most of them” didn’t know why there were there.

Thankfully, the Mayor was able to calm them down and disperse the crowd. He didn’t want to have to explain to Rome what was going on. This was really an embarrassing situation. The mayor used reason and logic, and it worked to calm them down. This public display was not the way to solve anything. It was a clash between good and evil, between the true God and false gods. What was the initial spark? Fear of losing money and prestige. Interesting.

Paul’s preaching was obviously making a difference. People’s lives were changing. Christianity and following Christ is a way of life. When Christ’s spirit is alive in us, our whole being and purpose are changed. Being a believer is so much more than worshiping an idol of silver or gold.

Have you had a time in your life when you have been unhappy? I think we can all answer yes to that. Did you let your unhappiness affect others? Did you stir up a “riot” to get your way? We’ve seen it time and again in congregations full of people. When people are unhappy, they are often not quiet about it, trying to bring other people into their unhappiness. Sometimes it works, and the whole body of Christ can be adversely affected. You may have even witnessed that yourself. My heart breaks for those people.

One thing I’ve learned over the years in ministry–you can’t please everyone. Being a people pleaser, I struggle with this in a big way. Thankfully, God’s grace is sufficient, and I rest in that promise a lot. If you are struggling right now, remember that God’s grace is sufficient in your weakness.  Read 2 Corinthians 12:9 here.

Let’s pray. Lord, I know the opposition will come. I know you are preparing me for spiritual battle by equipping me with your word and your promises. I long for the day when I will see you face to face and those surrounding us will be of one voice, all praising your name, all giving you the honor and respect you are due. I pray for those who don’t know you, who struggle each day without the assurance you provide. Help me be your shining light on them. Help me know how and when to help, giving me the tools and resources I need. In Jesus’ name. Amen.