The apostle Paul had spent a good length of time in the city of Ephesus. His gospel efforts were having a huge impact in the city, so much so that opposition was beginning to rise.

The main source of the opposition came from the silversmith craftsmen. They made silver shrines of the local god. By their own admission this trade was a great source of income: “We have our prosperity by this trade” (19:25 nkjv). But there were so many converts to Christ through the ministry of Paul, people turning from idolatry, that their business was in danger of failing and going bankrupt (vv. 25–26). When economic interests and religious devotion are simultaneously offended, it becomes a volatile mix.

Artemis was a female deity (Diana is the Latin equivalent), supposedly the daughter of Zeus. The temple of Artemis located in Ephesus was one of the wonders of Asia. When an uproar in the city arose over the supposed sleight against Artemis, the townclerk tried to quell it by stating the greatness and origin of their god, “which fell from heaven.” How striking that a few years later Paul would write a letter to the Ephesian Christians and would say of Christ, “He that descended is the same who has also ascended up above all the heavens” (Eph. 4:10). We believe Paul was making a wonderful contrast. Artemis allegedly “fell” from heaven, but Christ “descended” from heaven—a significant difference! To fall means it is out of control—Satan fell from heaven. To descend shows purpose and control. Then He ascended to heaven, opening it up for all who believe!