Vs. 1-7 - these people had only heard the testimony of John the Baptist. They were ready & believing for the coming Messiah. Paul tells them of Jesus' ministry, death & resurrection & they become true followers of Jesus.
Vs. 8-10 - Paul spent two years preaching to both the Jews and Gentiles until all of Asia had heard the Good News.
Vs. 11-20 - Many signs and miracles were performed by Paul in Jesus' name. Some non-believers thought that the name of Jesus was simply a powerful tool to be used, somewhat like "hocus pocus." Since they had no relationship with Jesus, they did not understand that it wasn't the words that Paul spoke, it was his relationship with Jesus that he relied on. When these people tried to use Jesus for themselves, it backfired on them. See, Jesus isn't some idol that does our bidding. He isn't some magical force that comes to our rescue when we pray a certain phrase. It is through our relationship with Him, our trust in Him, and our obedience to His Word that heals and transforms us.
Vs. 21- The more I read through the Scriptures, the more I see the motivations of man. Christians are persecuted not for blasphemy and not for their beliefs, but for profit. For the most part, it is greed and pride that cause men to turn against Christianity. In this account it is an idol-maker that stirs up trouble when he believes his business might start losing some business. The validity of Paul's teaching isn't called into question, but rather what will happen if people listen and believe. I reminds me to listen carefully when someone cries foul and brings up charges against another. Don't just listen to their words, look for their motivation. Why are they acting in this way? What has caused the concern or issue? When drama unfold in your life or the lives of those around you, stop & pray. Ask God to open your eyes to the truth, only then should you make any judgments.
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