In his speech Demetrius had said, “This our craft is in danger.” Acts 19:27. These words reveal the real cause of the tumult at Ephesus, and also the cause of much of the persecution which followed the apostles in their work. Demetrius and his fellow craftsmen saw that by the teaching and spread of the gospel the business of image making was endangered. The income of pagan priests and artisans was at stake, and for this reason they aroused against Paul the most bitter opposition. (AA 295.1) MC VC

The decision of the recorder and of others holding honorable offices in the city had set Paul before the people as one innocent of any unlawful act. This was another triumph of Christianity over error and superstition. God had raised up a great magistrate to vindicate His apostle and hold the tumultuous mob in check. Paul’s heart was filled with gratitude to God that his life had been preserved and that Christianity had not been brought into disrepute by the tumult at Ephesus. (AA 295.2) MC VC

“After the uproar was ceased, Paul called unto him the disciples, and embraced them, and departed for to go into Macedonia.” Acts 20:1. On this journey he was accompanied by two faithful Ephesian brethren, Tychicus and Trophimus. (AA 295.3) MC VC