From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 27—Witchcraft Books Burned

This chapter is based on Acts 19:1-20, RSV.

In the time of the apostles Ephesus was the capital of the Roman province of Asia. Its harbor was crowded with shipping, and its streets were thronged with people from every country. Like Corinth, it presented a promising field for missionary effort. TT 149.1

The Jews, widely dispersed in all civilized lands, were generally expecting the Messiah. When John the Baptist was preaching, many in their visits to Jerusalem had gone out to the Jordan to listen to him. There they had heard Jesus proclaimed as the Promised One, and they had carried the tidings to all parts of the world. Thus had Providence prepared the way for the apostles. TT 149.2

At Ephesus, Paul found twelve brethren who had been disciples of John the Baptist and who had gained some knowledge of the mission of Christ. But when asked by Paul if they had received the Holy Spirit, they answered, “No, we have never even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” “Into what then were you baptized?” Paul inquired. They said, “Into John's baptism.” TT 149.3

Then the apostle told them of Christ's life and of His cruel death of shame, and how He had risen triumphant over death. He repeated the Saviour's commission: “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” Matthew 28:18, 19. He told them also of Christ's promise to send the Comforter and described how gloriously this promise had been fulfilled on the Day of Pentecost. TT 149.4

With wondering joy the brethren listened. They grasped the truth of Christ's atoning sacrifice and received Him as their Redeemer. They were then baptized in the name of Jesus; and as Paul “laid his hands upon them,” they received the Holy Spirit and were enabled to speak the languages of other nations and to prophesy. Thus they were qualified to proclaim the gospel in Asia Minor. TT 150.1

By cherishing a humble, teachable spirit, these men gained the experience that enabled them to go as workers into the harvest field. Their example presents a lesson of great value. Many make but little progress in the divine life because they are too self-sufficient. They are content with a superficial knowledge of God's Word. TT 150.2

If the followers of Christ were earnest seekers after wisdom, they would be led into rich fields of truth as yet wholly unknown to them. He who will give himself fully to God will be guided by the divine hand. As he treasures the lessons of divine wisdom, he will be enabled to make his life an honor to God and a blessing to the world. TT 150.3