The Cross and the Craftsmen

There is a definite contemporary parallel to the Ephesian reaction to Paul and the preaching of Christ crucified (Acts 19:21-41). The opposition in Ephesus comes not from Jews, but from Gentile craftsmen, led by Demetrius, who are "worshipers" of the pagan goddess Artemis. But their opposition to Paul is not driven by religious devotion, but by money. Paul's preaching is seen by them simply as a threat to their business enterprise. That the cult of Artemis might be displaced is of only secondary concern to those whose livelihood depends on the silver shrines they make with their hands.

Professional salesmen that they are, Demetrius and company bamboozle the Ephesians into joining their hypocritical mantra, "Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!" It is no wonder the city is "filled with confusion" (v. 29). The ensuing riot is all the product of the craftsmen's cynical concern about the future of their business.

Manipulating the masses is nothing new, as this passage demonstrates. We have seen examples most recently in the Islamic world as demagogic "spiritual leaders" stir up rioting crowds to shout vacuous mantras and demand retribution against all who "insult" their prophet. The message of the cross remains an insult to every culture founded on belief in a lie. For the message of the cross exposes every lie and subjects it to the penetrating light of the truth that is Jesus Christ.