Acts 18:19

KJV

And he came to Ephesus, and left them there: but he himself entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} he came {G2658} to {G1519} Ephesus {G2181}, and {G2548} left {G2641} them there {G847}: but {G1161} he himself {G846} entered {G1525} into {G1519} the synagogue {G4864}, and reasoned with {G1256} the Jews {G2453}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They came to Ephesus, and he left them there; but he himself went into the synagogue and held dialogue with the Jews.

Berean Standard Bible

When they reached Ephesus, Paul parted ways with Priscilla and Aquila. He himself went into the synagogue there and reasoned with the Jews.

American Standard Version

And they came to Ephesus, and he left them there: but he himself entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 18:19 marks a pivotal moment in Paul's second missionary journey, as he, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila, arrives in the strategic city of Ephesus. While his companions remain, Paul immediately follows his established custom of entering the local synagogue to engage in reasoned discourse with the Jewish community, laying foundational groundwork for future extensive ministry in this vital Roman provincial capital. This brief but significant stop highlights Paul's consistent evangelistic strategy and the importance of intellectual engagement in sharing the gospel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at the close of Paul's second missionary journey, following an impactful and challenging ministry in Corinth (Acts 18:1-17), where he enjoyed divine protection and saw many come to faith. Having departed from Corinth with Priscilla and Aquila (Acts 18:18), Paul makes a brief stop in Ephesus on his way back to Jerusalem. His decision to leave his companions in Ephesus, coupled with his immediate entry into the synagogue for reasoned discussion, foreshadows the significant and extended ministry that Paul, and later Priscilla and Aquila, will have in this city during Paul's third missionary journey (Acts 19). Luke's concise narrative here serves as a bridge, setting the stage for one of the most fruitful periods of Paul's apostolic work.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ephesus was a preeminent city in Asia Minor, serving as the Roman provincial capital of Asia. It was a bustling commercial port, a center of Roman administration, and a profoundly religious city, famously home to the immense Temple of Artemis (Diana), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Its strategic location made it a crucial hub for the spread of ideas and commerce throughout the Roman Empire. For Paul, entering the synagogue was a customary practice, reflecting the historical and theological priority of presenting the gospel first to the Jewish people, who possessed the Old Testament Scriptures that testified to Christ. Synagogues were not only places of worship but also community centers where intellectual and theological discussions were common, providing a natural entry point for Paul to engage with both Jews and God-fearing Gentiles.
* **Key Themes:** Acts 18:19 contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Acts and Paul's ministry. Firstly, it underscores **Strategic Evangelism**, as Paul consistently targets major urban centers like Ephesus, recognizing their influence as gateways for gospel dissemination across wider regions. His consistent approach of first entering the [Jewish synagogue](/acts/17-2 "Paul's Custom of Reasoning in the Synagogue") highlights the theological principle that the gospel was "to the Jew first, and also to the Greek" (as articulated in [Romans 1:16](/romans/1-16 "Romans 1:16 - The Gospel for Jew and Greek")). Secondly, the phrase "reasoned with the Jews" emphasizes **Reasoned Discourse** as a primary method of evangelism. Paul did not merely proclaim but engaged in logical, scripturally-based arguments, seeking to persuade his hearers of Jesus' Messiahship, mirroring similar engagements seen in [Athens](/acts/17-17 "Acts 17:17 - Paul Reasoning in the Synagogue and Marketplace") and [Corinth](/acts/18-4 "Acts 18:4 - Paul Reasoning in the Synagogue at Corinth")). Lastly, the mention of Paul leaving Priscilla and Aquila in Ephesus subtly introduces the theme of **Partnership in Ministry**, setting the stage for their significant role in the Ephesian church, including their instruction of Apollos (as detailed in [Acts 18:26](/acts/18-26 "Acts 18:26 - Priscilla and Aquila Instruct Apollos")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **came (Greek, _katantáō'_):** This verb (G2658) means "to meet against, i.e., arrive at (literally or figuratively)." In this context, it signifies Paul's intentional arrival at Ephesus. It's not a casual stop but a deliberate destination, suggesting a purpose-driven journey. The term implies reaching a specific point or goal, highlighting the strategic nature of Paul's travels.
* **entered (Greek, _eisérchomai'_):** Derived from *eis* (into) and *erchomai* (to come), this verb (G1525) means "to enter (literally or figuratively)." Here, it denotes Paul's physical entry "into the synagogue." This action is significant as it represents Paul's consistent pattern of beginning his evangelistic efforts within the Jewish community, leveraging the existing framework of Jewish worship and intellectual discourse.
* **reasoned with (Greek, _dialégomai'_):** This middle voice verb (G1256), from which we derive "dialogue," signifies "to say thoroughly, i.e., discuss (in argument or exhortation)." It implies an interactive, logical, and persuasive engagement rather than a simple monologue or proclamation. Paul was not merely preaching; he was actively conversing, presenting arguments, and responding to objections, using the Jewish Scriptures as his foundation to demonstrate Christ's identity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he came to Ephesus,"**: This clause establishes the geographical setting of this significant stop on Paul's journey. Ephesus was a major urban center, strategically important for the spread of the gospel throughout Asia Minor. The verb "came" (katantáō) implies a purposeful arrival, not just a casual visit.
* **"and left them there:"**: This refers to Paul leaving Priscilla and Aquila in Ephesus. This seemingly simple act is profoundly significant, as it sets the stage for their crucial future ministry in the city, preparing the ground for the growth of the Ephesian church and their later instruction of Apollos. It also indicates Paul's trust in their capabilities and their integral role as ministry partners.
* **"but he himself entered into the synagogue,"**: This part highlights Paul's immediate and consistent evangelistic strategy. Despite the bustling commercial and pagan environment of Ephesus, Paul's first point of contact was the Jewish synagogue. The emphatic "he himself" underscores his personal commitment and customary approach to evangelism, prioritizing the Jewish community as the initial audience for the gospel.
* **"and reasoned with the Jews."**: This final clause describes the nature of Paul's engagement. The Greek term *dialégomai* (reasoned) implies a logical, interactive, and persuasive discussion. Paul engaged in intellectual discourse, presenting arguments from the Scriptures to demonstrate that Jesus was the Messiah, inviting questions and responding to objections, rather than simply delivering a sermon.

#### Literary Devices
Luke employs several literary devices in this concise verse to convey rich meaning. The use of **Brevity** is notable, as Luke quickly moves from Paul's arrival to his immediate action, highlighting the efficiency and purposefulness of Paul's ministry. There is also an element of **Foreshadowing**, as Paul's brief visit and the leaving of Priscilla and Aquila hint at the extensive and impactful ministry that will later unfold in Ephesus, particularly in Acts 19. Furthermore, Luke demonstrates **Repetition of a Pattern** in Paul's evangelistic strategy: his consistent practice of entering the synagogue first upon arriving in a new city (e.g., [Acts 13:5](/acts/13-5 "Acts 13:5 - Paul in Salamis Synagogue"), [Acts 14:1](/acts/14-1 "Acts 14:1 - Paul in Iconium Synagogue"), [Acts 17:2](/acts/17-2 "Acts 17:2 - Paul in Thessalonica Synagogue")). This pattern underscores Paul's theological conviction regarding the gospel's priority "to the Jew first." Finally, the subtle **Contrast** between "left them there" and "he himself entered" emphasizes Paul's personal and immediate commitment to evangelism, even as he strategically deploys his ministry partners.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 18:19 beautifully illustrates the strategic and intellectual dimensions of early Christian evangelism. Paul's immediate entry into the synagogue in Ephesus, a city steeped in paganism, underscores his unwavering commitment to the theological priority of bringing the gospel to the Jewish people first, as they were the custodians of God's revelation and the inheritors of the promises concerning the Messiah. His method of "reasoning" highlights that faith is not blind but is intellectually defensible, grounded in the fulfillment of the Old Testament Scriptures in Jesus Christ. This approach demonstrates a profound respect for his audience, inviting them into a dialogue based on shared texts and logical argumentation, rather than mere proclamation. This brief stop also serves as a testament to God's providential guidance in Paul's missionary journeys, orchestrating events and partnerships that would lead to the widespread establishment of the church in key urban centers.

* [Acts 13:5](/acts/13-5 "Acts 13:5 - Paul and Barnabas Preach in Salamis Synagogues") – Paul's consistent practice of beginning his ministry in the synagogue.
* [Acts 17:17](/acts/17-17 "Acts 17:17 - Paul Reasons in Athens Synagogue and Marketplace") – Paul's method of reasoning daily in the synagogue and marketplace in Athens.
* [Romans 1:16](/romans/1-16 "Romans 1:16 - The Gospel is the Power of God for Salvation") – Paul's declaration that the gospel is "to the Jew first and also to the Greek."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 18:19 offers profound insights for contemporary believers regarding the nature and practice of evangelism. Paul's strategic choice of Ephesus reminds us of the importance of discerning and engaging with influential spheres in our own communities—whether they be cultural, intellectual, or relational—where the gospel can have the broadest impact. His method of "reasoning" challenges us to move beyond mere proclamation to thoughtful, respectful, and biblically grounded dialogue. This means being prepared to articulate the reasons for our hope, engaging with questions, and presenting the truth of Christ with both conviction and clarity, always seeking to persuade rather than merely inform. Furthermore, the subtle mention of Priscilla and Aquila highlights the indispensable role of partnership in ministry. God's work is rarely a solo endeavor; it thrives on collaboration, mutual support, and the strategic deployment of diverse gifts within the body of Christ. We are called to identify, equip, and empower others, recognizing that the collective effort of the church is essential for the advancement of the gospel.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can we, like Paul, identify and engage with strategic "Ephesuses" or influential spheres within our own contexts for the spread of the gospel?**
* **What does it mean practically to "reason with" others about our faith in today's diverse and often skeptical world, and how can we cultivate this skill?**
* **In what ways can we better foster partnerships and collaboration within our churches and ministries, recognizing the complementary gifts God has given to His people?**

### FAQ
**Why did Paul leave Priscilla and Aquila in Ephesus?**

Answer: Paul's decision to leave Priscilla and Aquila in Ephesus was a strategic move that highlights the collaborative nature of early Christian missions. While Paul continued his journey back to Jerusalem, he recognized the potential of Ephesus as a vital center for the gospel and entrusted his capable ministry partners to continue the work there. Priscilla and Aquila, having been discipled by Paul and possessing a deep understanding of the Scriptures, were well-suited to nurture the nascent Christian community and engage with the local Jewish population. Their presence proved crucial, as they later encountered and further instructed Apollos, a powerful orator and scholar, in the way of God more accurately (as recounted in [Acts 18:26](/acts/18-26 "Acts 18:26 - Priscilla and Aquila Instruct Apollos")). This act demonstrates Paul's wisdom in delegating and empowering others for ministry, ensuring the continuity and growth of the church even in his absence.

**What was the significance of the synagogue for Paul's ministry?**

Answer: The synagogue served as a foundational and strategic entry point for Paul's evangelistic efforts in almost every city he visited. For Paul, a devout Jew himself, the synagogue provided a ready-made audience of both Jews and God-fearing Gentiles who were already familiar with the Old Testament Scriptures. This common ground allowed Paul to "reason" from the very texts they held sacred, demonstrating how Jesus of Nazareth fulfilled the prophecies and promises concerning the Messiah. It was also a public forum where intellectual discourse was common, allowing for open discussion and debate. While Paul often faced opposition and eventually turned to the Gentiles when rejected by the Jewish leadership, his consistent practice of starting in the synagogue underscores the theological priority of the gospel being "to the Jew first" ([Romans 1:16](/romans/1-16 "Romans 1:16 - The Gospel is the Power of God for Salvation")), laying a crucial groundwork before expanding his ministry to the wider Gentile population.

**What does "reasoned with the Jews" imply about Paul's evangelistic approach?**

Answer: The phrase "reasoned with the Jews" (Greek: *dialégomai*) implies a sophisticated and interactive evangelistic approach, far beyond a simple monologue or proclamation. It suggests that Paul engaged in logical argumentation, persuasive discourse, and intellectual debate. He didn't just preach; he presented evidence from the Scriptures, answered questions, addressed objections, and sought to convince his audience through thoughtful dialogue. This method reflects a deep respect for his hearers, inviting them into a shared intellectual pursuit of truth. It highlights that faith is not antithetical to reason but is supported by compelling evidence and coherent arguments, particularly concerning the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in Jesus Christ. Paul's approach was about winning minds as well as hearts, demonstrating the reasonableness of the Christian faith.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's act of entering the synagogue in Ephesus and "reasoning with the Jews" profoundly echoes and fulfills the very mission of Christ Himself. Jesus, the ultimate fulfillment of all Old Testament prophecies, frequently taught and reasoned in synagogues throughout Galilee and Judea (as seen in [Luke 4:16-21](/luke/4-16-21 "Luke 4:16-21 - Jesus Teaches in the Synagogue at Nazareth")), proclaiming the arrival of the Kingdom of God and demonstrating His authority through word and deed. Paul, as Christ's apostle, continued this pattern, presenting Jesus not merely as a historical figure but as the long-awaited Messiah, the very wisdom of God incarnate (as described in [1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God")). His "reasoning" was fundamentally about unveiling how the entire sweep of the Jewish Scriptures pointed to Jesus—His life, death, and resurrection—as the culmination of God's redemptive plan. Thus, Paul's every argument in the synagogue was a Christ-centered one, demonstrating that in Jesus, the Law and the Prophets find their ultimate meaning and purpose ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")). The truth Paul sought to communicate, the truth that transforms hearts and minds, was none other than the person and work of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Timothy 1:18

The Lord grant unto him that he may find mercy of the Lord in that day: and in how many things he ministered unto me at Ephesus, thou knowest very well.

Ephesians 1:1

¶ Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus:

1 Timothy 1:3

As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,

Acts 18:4

And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.

Acts 19:1

¶ And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples,

Acts 18:24

¶ And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, [and] mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus.

1 Corinthians 15:32

If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die.