Acts 19:20

KJV

So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.

KJV (with Strong's)

So {G3779} mightily {G2596}{G2904} grew {G837} the word {G3056} of God {G2962} and {G2532} prevailed {G2480}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Thus the message about the Lord continued in a powerful way to grow in influence.

Berean Standard Bible

So the word of the Lord powerfully continued to spread and prevail.

American Standard Version

So mightily grew the word of the Lord and prevailed.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 19:20 provides a succinct yet profound summary of the transformative power of the Gospel during Paul's ministry in Ephesus. It encapsulates the dynamic, divinely-empowered expansion of God's message, demonstrating its irresistible force in overcoming entrenched paganism and spiritual darkness, leading to widespread repentance and the establishment of God's authority in a highly resistant cultural center.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 19:20 serves as a powerful concluding statement to a significant phase of Paul's ministry in Ephesus, detailed in [Acts 19](/acts/19 "Acts 19 - Paul's Ministry in Ephesus"). The preceding verses describe Paul's initial teaching in the synagogue, his subsequent daily lectures in the hall of Tyrannus for two years, and the extraordinary miracles God performed through him, even healing those touched by his garments ([Acts 19:1-12](/acts/19-1-12 "Acts 19:1-12 - Paul's Ministry and Miracles in Ephesus")). A critical turning point, immediately preceding this verse, was the public exposure and humiliation of the seven sons of Sceva, who attempted to exorcise demons using the name of Jesus without true faith ([Acts 19:13-17](/acts/19-13-17 "Acts 19:13-17 - The Sons of Sceva")). This event instilled a profound fear of the Lord among the Ephesian population, leading to a mass confession of sins and, most dramatically, the public burning of expensive magic books by those who had practiced sorcery ([Acts 19:18-19](/acts/19-18-19 "Acts 19:18-19 - Confession and the Burning of Magic Books")). Verse 20, therefore, is the triumphant summation of these events, highlighting the spiritual victory achieved through the Gospel's power.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ephesus was one of the largest and most influential cities in the Roman Empire, a bustling port city in Asia Minor. It was a major center for commerce, politics, and, significantly, pagan religion. The city was home to the magnificent Temple of Artemis (Diana), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, which was a hub for idolatry, prostitution, and various occult practices. Magic, sorcery, and divination were deeply ingrained in Ephesian culture, with "Ephesian letters" (charms and incantations) being widely popular. This spiritual environment presented immense opposition to the monotheistic, anti-idolatrous message of Christianity. Paul's ministry directly confronted these deeply held beliefs and practices, making the success described in [Acts 19:20](/acts/19-20 "Acts 19:20 - The Triumph of God's Word") all the more remarkable. The economic impact of the Gospel's success, particularly on the silversmiths who made idols of Artemis, further underscores the cultural upheaval caused by the Word of God, leading to the riot described later in [Acts 19:23-41](/acts/19-23-41 "Acts 19:23-41 - The Riot in Ephesus").
* **Key Themes:** The verse [Acts 19:20](/acts/19-20 "Acts 19:20 - The Triumph of God's Word") powerfully contributes to several key themes prevalent in the book of Acts. Foremost is the **Dynamic Power of the Gospel**, which is portrayed not merely as a message but as a living, active force capable of transforming individuals and societies. This theme is consistently emphasized throughout Acts, from the initial outpouring of the Spirit in [Acts 2](/acts/2 "Acts 2 - The Day of Pentecost") to the widespread conversions in Jerusalem and beyond. Another crucial theme is the **Triumph of God over Idolatry and Demonic Forces**. In Ephesus, a city steeped in occultism and the worship of Artemis, the "word of God" directly confronted and decisively overcame these spiritual strongholds, culminating in the public renunciation of magic. This demonstrates God's sovereignty and the superiority of His truth over all forms of spiritual deception. Finally, the verse highlights the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Human Agency**, where Paul's diligent preaching and miraculous works are clearly instrumental, yet the ultimate growth and prevalence are attributed to the "word of God" itself, implying a divine orchestration behind the rapid and profound spiritual transformation. This echoes the consistent pattern in Acts where God's hand is evident in the expansion of His kingdom, as seen in passages like [Acts 6:7](/acts/6-7 "Acts 6:7 - Growth of the Word in Jerusalem") and [Acts 12:24](/acts/12-24 "Acts 12:24 - The Word of God Grew and Multiplied").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Word (Greek, _lógos'_):** (G3056) Refers to "something said," "discourse," or "reasoning." In a theological context, especially when referring to "the word of God," it denotes divine communication, revelation, and the very message of the Gospel. It carries the weight of God's authoritative utterance, His truth, and His active presence. In John's Gospel, it famously refers to Christ Himself as the Divine Expression ([John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Was God")). Here, it signifies the entire body of Christian teaching and the saving message proclaimed by Paul.
* **Grew (Greek, _auxánō'_):** (G837) Means "to grow," "to increase," or "to enlarge." It can be used both literally (e.g., plants growing) and figuratively. In this context, it describes a dynamic, organic, and expansive process. The addition of "mightily" (from G2596 _katá_ and G2904 _krátos_), meaning "down with force" or "vigor," intensifies this growth, indicating it was not merely quantitative but powerful, vigorous, and effective, demonstrating an inherent divine energy behind its expansion.
* **Prevailed (Greek, _ischýō'_):** (G2480) Means "to have force," "to be strong," "to be able," or "to conquer." It implies overcoming opposition and establishing dominance or authority. When applied to the "word of God," it signifies that the Gospel was not only spreading but was actively conquering spiritual strongholds, overcoming resistance, and asserting its supreme authority over all competing powers and ideologies in Ephesus. It denotes a decisive victory.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"So mightily grew the word of God":** This clause emphasizes the extraordinary and divine nature of the Gospel's expansion. The adverbial phrase "so mightily" (Greek: _houtō katá krátos_) underscores the immense power and vigor with which the "word of God" (the Gospel message) was increasing. This growth was not merely numerical, though that was a result, but qualitative and spiritual, signifying a deep penetration into the hearts and minds of the Ephesian populace. It implies an unstoppable, divinely energized force at work, transforming lives and challenging the very fabric of society.
* **"and prevailed":** This second clause highlights the victorious and conquering aspect of the "word of God." It signifies that the Gospel did not merely grow, but it also triumphed over the significant spiritual and cultural opposition it faced in Ephesus. This prevalence implies the defeat of idolatry, magic, and demonic influences, as evidenced by the public confessions and the burning of magic books. The "word of God" asserted its authority, demonstrating its superiority and effectiveness in establishing God's kingdom in a hostile environment.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound message. **Personification** is evident as the "word of God" is depicted as an active, living entity that "grew" and "prevailed," almost as if it were a conquering army or a burgeoning organism. This imbues the abstract concept of God's message with dynamic agency and inherent power. The phrase "so **mightily** grew" utilizes **Intensification** through the adverbial phrase _katá krátos_, emphasizing the overwhelming force and vigor of this growth, suggesting it was beyond ordinary human effort. Furthermore, the entire verse functions as a powerful **Summary Statement**, encapsulating the spiritual victory and transformative impact of Paul's ministry in Ephesus in a concise and memorable way, serving as a climactic conclusion to the preceding narrative of confrontation with paganism and magic.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 19:20 stands as a testament to the inherent, dynamic power of God's revealed truth. It underscores the theological truth that the Gospel is not merely human words or philosophy, but a living, active force divinely empowered to bring about transformation and establish God's reign. This verse highlights God's sovereignty in the spread of His kingdom, demonstrating that while human agents like Paul faithfully proclaim the message, it is the "word of God" itself, imbued with divine _krátos_ (might) and _ischýs_ (strength), that ultimately grows and prevails over all opposition—spiritual, cultural, or intellectual. It affirms that the Gospel is inherently victorious, capable of conquering even the most entrenched darkness and idolatry, leading to genuine repentance and a radical reorientation of lives towards Christ.

* [Acts 6:7](/acts/6-7 "The Word of God Increased")
* [Acts 12:24](/acts/12-24 "The Word of God Grew and Multiplied")
* [Hebrews 4:12](/hebrews/4-12 "The Living and Active Word of God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 19:20 offers profound encouragement and a clear challenge for believers today. It reminds us that the Gospel we proclaim and live by is not a weak or outdated message, but a divinely charged force capable of transforming the most resistant hearts and societies. In a world increasingly marked by secularism, spiritual confusion, and new forms of idolatry, this verse calls us to renewed confidence in the inherent power of God's Word. We are encouraged to faithfully sow the seeds of the Gospel, knowing that its growth and prevalence are ultimately God's work, not solely dependent on our eloquence or strategy. It challenges us to confront spiritual darkness in our own lives and communities with the truth of Christ, trusting that just as the Word prevailed in Ephesus, it can prevail against contemporary strongholds of sin and unbelief, bringing about genuine spiritual revival and lasting change.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or community do I need to trust more fully in the "mightily growing" and "prevailing" power of God's Word?**
* **How does the story of Ephesus, with its deep-seated idolatry and magic, encourage me in sharing the Gospel in seemingly resistant environments today?**
* **What practical steps can I take to allow the "word of God" to grow and prevail more effectively in my own heart and through my actions?**

### FAQ

**What was the significance of the burning of the magic books in Ephesus?**

Answer: The burning of the magic books, described in [Acts 19:19](/acts/19-19 "Acts 19:19 - Confession and the Burning of Magic Books"), was a profoundly significant act that directly preceded and exemplified how the "word of God" grew and prevailed. It represented a public, costly, and decisive break from the pervasive occult practices in Ephesus. The books were valued at 50,000 pieces of silver, indicating a significant financial sacrifice and a clear renunciation of their former way of life. This act demonstrated genuine repentance and a visible triumph of the Gospel over spiritual darkness and idolatry. It showed that the power of God's Word was not merely intellectual assent but led to radical transformation and separation from sin.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 19:20, proclaiming the mighty growth and prevalence of "the word of God," finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in Jesus Himself, who is the living Word of God. As [John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Became Flesh") declares, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." Jesus is the full and final revelation of God, the embodiment of divine truth and power. The growth and prevalence of the Gospel message in Ephesus, therefore, signify the expansion of Christ's kingdom and the establishment of His sovereign rule in the hearts of people. It is through His atoning work on the cross and His resurrection that the "word" gains its saving power, enabling it to transform lives and overcome the dominion of sin and darkness ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13-14 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Delivered from Darkness")). The Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Christ, empowers the proclamation of this Word ([Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Power to Witness")) and ensures its victorious advance, ultimately pointing to the day when "every knee should bow... and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord" ([Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Jesus is Lord")). Thus, the might and prevalence of the "word of God" are inextricably linked to the person and work of Christ, the victorious King.

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

Acts 6:7

And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.

Acts 12:24

But the word of God grew and multiplied.

2 Thessalonians 3:1

¶ Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have [free] course, and be glorified, even as [it is] with you:

Isaiah 55:11

So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper [in the thing] whereto I sent it.