And this continued by the space of two years; so that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.
And {G1161} this {G5124} continued {G1096} by the space {G1909} of two {G1417} years {G2094}; so {G5620} that all {G3956} they which dwelt in {G2730} Asia {G773} heard {G191} the word {G3056} of the Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424}, both {G5037} Jews {G2453} and {G2532} Greeks {G1672}.
This went on for two years; so that everyone, both Jews and Greeks, living in the province of Asia heard the message about the Lord.
This continued for two years, so that everyone who lived in the province of Asia, Jews and Greeks alike, heard the word of the Lord.
And this continued for the space of two years; so that all they that dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord, both Jews and Greeks.
-
Acts 20:31
Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. -
2 Timothy 1:15
¶ This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia be turned away from me; of whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes. -
1 Corinthians 1:22
For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: -
1 Corinthians 1:24
But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. -
Romans 10:12
¶ For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. -
Colossians 3:11
Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond [nor] free: but Christ [is] all, and in all. -
Galatians 3:28
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
Acts 19:10 describes a pivotal period in the Apostle Paul's third missionary journey, highlighting the extensive reach of the gospel message from Ephesus, the capital of the Roman province of Asia.
Context
Following a period of teaching in the synagogue at Ephesus, Paul encountered significant opposition, leading him to withdraw and teach daily in the school of Tyrannus (Acts 19:9). This verse specifies that "this continued by the space of two years," referring to his consistent, daily instruction in this public lecture hall. This sustained effort allowed the Christian message to permeate far beyond the city limits of Ephesus, reaching "all they which dwelt in Asia," meaning the entire Roman province, not the continent. The inclusive phrase "both Jews and Greeks" underscores the universal appeal and target audience of the early Christian evangelism.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The term "Asia" here refers specifically to the Roman province of Asia Minor, a populous and influential region. The phrase "heard the word of the Lord Jesus" signifies not merely passive listening, but active proclamation and exposure to the core message of Christianity centered on Christ. The duration "two years" (Greek: eti de etē duo) emphasizes the significant time investment Paul made, which was foundational to the widespread spiritual transformation in the region.
Practical Application
Acts 19:10 offers profound lessons for believers today. It highlights the importance of diligence and consistency in sharing the gospel, reminding us that sustained effort can yield far-reaching results. It challenges us to consider how we can strategically and effectively communicate the "word of the Lord Jesus" to those around us, recognizing that the message is for all people, regardless of background. Just as Paul's ministry radiated from Ephesus, our own spheres of influence, however small, can become centers from which the good news spreads.