Bible Commentaries
Acts 19

Verse 2

Have

Not as in A.V., "since ye believed," but as in R.V. and marg.: "Did ye receive the Holy Spirit when ye believed?" Paul was evidently impressed by the absence of spirituality and power in these so-called disciples. Their answer brought out the fact that they were Jewish proselytes, disciples of John the Baptist, looking backward to an accomplished redemption. Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 6:19; Ephesians 1:13.

Verse 16

overcame The sons of Sceva sought to imitate a power to which they were strangers, only to their own confusion. This striking witness from another side caused fear to fall on all.

prevailed Luke 11:21; Luke 11:22; 1 John 4:4.

Verse 21

spirit

i.e. in his own mind. Cf. (See Scofield " :-") .

Verse 23

about the way

concerning the Way, i.e. Christ. John 14:6.

Verse 27

world

"oikoumene" = inhabited earth. (See Scofield " :-") .

Verse 28

Diana

Gr. Artemis. Not anciently of the Greek pantheon, but an Eastern goddess. Cf. Judges 2:13. (See Scofield "Judges 2:13- :") .

But "Diana of the Ephesians" was rather a particular image of Artemis, reputed to have fallen from heaven; Acts 19:35.