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In an attempt to mimic Paul, Jewish exorcists, specifically the seven sons of Sceva, use the name
of Jesus to cast an evil spirit out of a man. To their great surprise, the demon speaks and then
leaps on them, leaving the seven sons wounded and naked. As a result of this incident, fear
falls on the people. Many come to know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and many bring their
books about magic to be burned. The Word continues to grow and prevail.

Act 19:8 And he went into the synagogue and spoke boldly for three months, reasoning and
persuading concerning the things of the kingdom of God.

The time is now right. Paul had told the new converts in Ephesus that he would return if it was
the will of God (18: 19-21). This will of God is “yes,” and Paul does return with a confidence he
did not possess the first time. His words are more anointed and his audience more receptive.
Paul has never shared the gospel in any synagogue for a three-month period of time. This is
evidence of the degree of success he is having among the Jews.

Act 19:9 But when some were hardened and did not believe, but spoke evil of the Way before
the multitude, he departed from them and withdrew the disciples, reasoning daily in the school
of Tyrannus.
Not everyone receives Paul’s message. Some hardened their hearts the more they hear. Not
only do some not receive, they set themselves in opposition to the Word. David calls this type
of person a “scorner” in Psalm 1:1. Paul went to the Jews first but left them when they rejected
the message. He now sets his sights on the Gentiles.

The School of Tyrannus is a medical school. The medical students learn in the mornings, and
the building is empty during the day. Paul uses this building during the afternoons and
evenings. For two years, this will be one of Paul’s most successful bases of operation.

Act 19:10 And this continued for two years, so that all who dwelt in Asia heard the word of the
Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.

The two-year revival spreads throughout the Roman province of Asia. This area includes six
other cities which later establish churches. Together these make up the seven churches of Asia
found in the first three books of Revelation. All seven churches began from the Ephesian
revival. The revival began with the Word of God. Both Jews and Greeks hear the Word. Paul
speaks and God accompanies the Word with signs following (Mark 16:20; Hebrews 2:3-4).

MIRACLES THROUGH PAUL’S HANDS

Act 19:11 Now God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul,
Again, these miracles are performed in response to the Word of God being preached. This
revival begins with the Word. Signs and wonders follow the Word. The revival ends with the
Word increasing (verse 20). These miracles, signs, and wonders are not the “usual” miracles.
They are exceptional and out of the ordinary.