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Paul's 3rd Missionary Journey
Journey with us through Paul's third missionary expedition to Ephesus, where we encounter four distinct responses to the transformative power of the gospel. In Acts 19, we meet disciples who hunger for more—believers baptized only in John's baptism who eagerly embrace the fullness of the Holy Spirit when they discover there's deeper truth available. We witness religious leaders who harden their hearts, clinging to tradition while speaking against what they don't understand. We observe those attempting to wield spiritual power without genuine relationship, and finally, we see people threatened by the gospel because it disrupts their financial security and comfortable idols. This ancient city, dominated by the temple of Artemis and filled with 20,000-seat theaters, mirrors our modern world where we face our own idols—careers, money, status, even well-meaning religious activities that replace authentic relationship with God. The central question pierces through two millennia: How do we respond when confronted with the living power of Christ? Do we approach with humble hearts, desiring to experience more of God's presence, or do we remain satisfied with incomplete knowledge and comfortable religion? The Holy Spirit doesn't just want our acknowledgment; He seeks to fill us completely, empowering us to live victoriously over every force that opposes God's purposes in our lives.
