Trials and Victories of Paul
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labors of Paul at Ephesus, the heathen worship had received a telling
blow. There was a perceptible falling-off in attendance at the national
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festival, and in the enthusiasm of the worshipers. The influence of
his teachings extended far beyond the actual converts to the faith.
Many who had not openly accepted the new doctrines, became so far
enlightened as to lose all confidence in heathen gods. The presence
of Paul in the city called special attention to this fact, and curses loud
and deep were uttered against him.
Another cause of dissatisfaction existed. It had long been custom-
ary among heathen nations to make use of small images or shrines
to represent their favorite objects of worship. Portable statues were
modeled after the great image of Diana, and were widely circulated
in the countries along the shores of the Mediterranean. Models of
the temple which enshrined the idol were also eagerly sought. Both
were regarded as objects of worship, and were carried at the head of
processions, and on journeys and military expeditions. An extensive
and profitable business had grown up at Ephesus from the manufacture
and sale of these shrines and images.
Those who were interested in this branch of industry found their
gains diminishing. All united in attributing the unwelcome change
to Paul’s labors. Demetrius, a manufacturer of silver shrines, called
together the workmen of his craft, and by a violent appeal endeavored
to stir up their indignation against Paul. He represented that their
traffic was endangered, and pointed out the great loss which they
would sustain if the apostle were allowed to turn the people away from
their ancient worship. He then appealed to their ruling superstition,
saying: “Moreover ye see and hear, that not alone at Ephesus, but
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almost throughout all Asia, this Paul hath persuaded and turned away
much people, saying that they be no gods which are made with hands;
so that not only this our craft is in danger to be set at naught, but also
that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised, and
her magnificence should be destroyed, whom all Asia and the world
worshippeth.” This speech acted as fire to the stubble. The excited
passions of the people were roused, and burst forth in the cry, “Great
is Diana of the Ephesians!”
A report of the speech of Demetrius was rapidly circulated. The
uproar was terrific. The whole city seemed in commotion. An immense
crowd soon collected, and a rush was made to the workshop of Aquila,