TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE
Please Read Acts 19:23–41
About that time there arose a great disturbance about the Way. A silversmith named Demetrius, who made silver shrines of Artemis, brought in a lot of business for the craftsmen there. He called them together, along with the workers in related trades, and said: “You know, my friends, that we receive a good income from this business. And you see and hear how this fellow Paul has convinced and led astray large numbers of people here in Ephesus and in practically the whole province of Asia. He says that gods made by human hands are no gods at all. There is danger not only that our trade will lose its good name, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will be discredited; and the goddess herself, who is worshiped throughout the province of Asia and the world, will be robbed of her divine majesty.”
Acts 19:23–27
DEVOTIONAL
by Elder Chris Beltran
Why is the business of making idols big? History and the current situation inform us that people in different cultures, places, and religions always have this inclination to bow down, pray, and worship man-made and visible statues and idols instead of the Lord. Romans 1:21–23 and 1 Corinthians 10:19–20 tell us the power behind these idols. Many people are trapped in this kind of cycle, and satan sees to it that they are kept in the dark. Idols are not necessarily statues or images but anything that takes the first place of God in our lives, like our work, social media, position, fame, fortune, or anything. Be very careful; Psalm 78:58–59 states, “They angered him with their high places; they aroused his jealousy with their idols. When God heard them, he was furious; he rejected Israel completely.”
Demetrius’ first concern was his pocket, and he used religion to trigger a riot to protect his business. It was tragic that many people believed him; they were used by him and led astray because of his self-interest. Many refused to listen to the gospel presented by Paul and joined the riot. These actions have eternal consequences. What happened to the great temple of Artemis? The temple was destroyed by invading Goths in 262 A.D. and was never rebuilt. God’s promises will always happen, sooner or later.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, please teach us the impact of a transformed life on culture. Help us stand firm in the face of opposition, remaining faithful to Your truth. Guide us to bridge the gap between Your message and the world, and may our lives reflect Your transforming grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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