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Name: BIBLE STUDY PROJECT: OBSERVATION TEMPLATE
Passage: Acts 19:11-22
A. I have read Acts 19:11-22 in both a formal translation (NASB, NRSV, ESV, or CSB) and a
functional translation (NIV, NLT, or NCV). Highlight the correct answer. Please use the
translation provided in your digital library or find it at Biblegateway.com
oYes
o No
B. Having read the passage in both formal and functional translation, list at least 2 similarities
and 3 differences between the way both translations cover this story. These similarities and
differences should be related to the text itself rather than the translation. For example, an
observation like, “The formal translation is harder to read” is not an acceptable observation
because it deals with the translation itself rather than the text. You may list as many
similarities as possible and differences that you find providing that you meet the minimum
amount for each one.
1. Similarity – Both translations describe Paul doing amazing miracles and healing the
sick, showing the power of God working through him.
2. Similarity – Both versions show the big impact of all these miracles on the
community, and this made people want to hear Paul’s message about Jesus
3. Difference – ESV uses a more formal translation, and this can feel more traditional.
Then NIV has a more common language so it can be explained and understood
more in a way we can understand it.
4. Difference - ESV gives a specific wording and closely shows the original text, like
using “aprons” or “handkerchiefs” with more attention on the items used. Where
NIV tells the same events, but it makes some of the descriptions simpler, so it
enhances reading.
5. Difference - ESV keeps the original Greek structure and shows more of a word for
word translation. Then NIV focuses more on showing the overall meaning of the
message, this makes the reading feel a little more approachable.
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C. Identify the basic elements of the story you are studying.
1. Main characters: (List them)
a. Paul
b. The Seven Sons of Sceva
c. Evil Spirit
d. The People of Ephesus
2. Plot: (50-100 words)
a. The plot of Acts 19:11-22 is based around the ministry of Paul in Ephesus. It
highlights the demonstration of the amazing power through his actions along
with information about false practices. The plot shows the power of God
through Paul’s ministry. How dangerous it is to use Jesus' name without
having true faith, and how truly amazing it is to see the unexplainable power
of Jesus. This all leads to a great shift in the way the community believed.
3. Story structure: (50-100 words)
Note: Plot and Story Structure are not the same thing (see the tutorial and student example)
The bible tells many events that shows the power of God and how it impacts apostle Paul’s
ministry. The passage begins by telling the amazing miracles performed by Paul through God’s
power. A group of Jewish exorcists, which are the seven sons of Sceva, try to use the name of
Jesus to cast out evil spirits. This shows the misuse of Jesus’ name without true faith. The evil
spirit responds by not knowing the sons of Sceva but knowing Jesus and Paul. This leads to fear
among the people and the recognition of the power of the name of Jesus. This had many
people of Ephesus become believers. This was a result of people turning away from their old
ways, and a growth of the Word of God.
D. List basic observations about this passage using the “Key Question” for observation.
Remember to consult and review chapters 17 and 37 in Everyday Bible Study. This will
help you be more detailed in your answers to “who,” “what,” “where,” “when,” “why,”
and “how.” Please be detailed and specific.
1. Who:
a. Paul: The apostle who does amazing miracles through God's power.
b. The Seven Sons of Sceva: A group of Jewish exorcists trying t to use Jesus'
name without true faith.
c. Evil Spirits: The bad things that are being confronted and cast out.
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2. What:
a. Paul does miracles, like healings and exorcisms.
b. The seven sons of Sceva try to cast out evil spirits using the name of Jesus,
just like Paul preaches.
c. An evil spirit overpowers the sons of Sceva, showing how important it is to
have true faith.
3. Where:
a. It takes place in Ephesus, a big city in Roman.
4. When:
a. This passage occurs during Paul’s third missionary journey.
5. Why:
a. The miracles are performed to show the power of God and the importance of
Paul’s ministry.
b. The actions of the sons of Sceva served as a warning about misusing spiritual
authority for personal gain is wrong.
c. The resulting fear and amazement in the people lead to the accepting
Christianity and faith.
6. How:
a. Paul did miracles through the power of God, often using handkerchiefs have
touched him.
b. The sons of Sceva used Jesus' name without having a real relationship with
Him, which leads to their failure.
c. The event with the evil spirit shows the power that comes from a strong
relationship with God and true faith.
