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Name: Hannah Cincebox
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 found at Biblegateway.com
•Yes
•No
A. 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 and differences that you find providing that you meet the
minimum amount for each one.
1. Similarity – Both translations describe the fear that fell on the Jews and Greeks in
Ephesus after hearing the news of the attempted exorcism.
2. Similarity – Both translations portray the host of the evil spirit acknowledging
Jesus and Paul while questioning the brother's validity. The evil spirit subdued
and overpowered the sons of Sceva.
3. Difference – The NASB uses “fifty thousand pieces of silver” to describe the
worth of the scrolls while the NIV uses “fifty thousand drachmas.”
4. Difference - The NASB suggests Paul being guided by the Holy Spirit to go to
Jerusalem, the NIV portrays Paul deciding on his own.
5. Difference - In the NASB Acts 19:13, it is noticeably clear that the brothers were
up to no good. If I had only read the NIV version, I would not have interpreted the
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brothers doing ill will. I was under the impression that they were doing Paul’s
work in the name of Jesus until further reading.
C. Identify the basic elements of the story you are studying.
1. Main characters:
God, Paul, the Seven sons of Sceva, and the host of the evil spirit
2. Plot:
This passage depicts God’s extraordinary miracles through Paul in Ephesus, where
items touched by him bring healing. The story unfolds as Jewish exorcists, the sons of
Sceva, attempt to use Jesus' name without true authority- leading to a confrontation
with an evil spirit. The possessed man overpowers the brothers, instilling fear within
