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. Continue reading “Acts 19:21-41 – Unhappy People”