BIBL 104
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 found at Biblegateway.com
oYes
oNo
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 and differences that you find providing that you meet the minimum amount for
each one.
1. Similarity – Both versions of the test explicitly state that the surrendered
possessions, labeled as ungodly, amounted to fifty thousand pieces of silver.
Additionally, both translations describe identical instances of the miracles
performed by good through Paul.
2. Similarity – In verse 11, although worded differently, both convey the message that
God is performing these miracles. In the NIV, it states, “God did extraordinary
miracles though Paul,” while in the ESV, it says,” God was doing extraordinary
miracles by the hands of Paul.”
3. Difference – In the NIV translation, the exorcists are described as “commanding”
evil spirits out of the possessed, whereas in the ESV, they are quoted as saying, “I
adjure you by the name of Jesus, whom Paul proclaims,” suggesting it was more of
a request in Jesus’ name rather than a direct command.
4. Difference – The ESV translation emphasizes that Paul firmly resolved in his spirit
before sending Timothy and Erastus to Macedonia. This detail is significant as it
showcases Paul’s commitment to the lord despite his challenges. It’s important to
note that this aspect is not present in the NIV translation.
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5. Difference - Paul remained in the region of Asia, while according to the NIV
translation, he sent Timothy and Erastus to Macedonia. The ESV translation merely
indicates that Paul sent two of his assistants to Macedonia, without specifying who
exactly was sent there by Paul.
C. Identify the basic elements of the story you are studying.
1. Main characters: (List them)
Paul, Timothy, Erastus, Sceva’s seven sons
2. Plot: (50-100 words)
God works miracles through Paul, freeing people possessed by evil spirits. Witnessing this, a
group of Jewish exorcists attempts to cast out demons in God’s name. However, when they
encounter a possessed individual who doesn’t recognize them, they are attacked by the evil
spirits within him. This incident terrifies the people of Ephesus, leading them to reverence God
and dispose of all ungodly items. Following this, Paul travels to Macedonia, Achaia, and Rome
to aid other possessed individuals. He delegates Timothy and Erastus to Macedonia, Achaia, and
eventually Rome to continue this mission.
3. Story structure: (50-100 words)
Note: Plot and Story Structure are not the same thing (see the tutorial and student example)
Intro: God performs miracles through Paul, while Jewish priests carry out exorcisms
Inciting Incident: The Seven Sons of Sceva attempt to communicate with a demon through an
unidentified individual who is possessed by the evil spirit.
Rising Action: The Jewish priests engage with the spirit, but it replies that it does not recognize
them and cannot identify Paul or Jesus
Climax: The evil spirit within the unidentified man compels him to attack and overpower the
priests, resulting on their injuries as they flee
Falling Action: Both Jews and Greeks are filled with fear. Many among them confess their
deeds and burn their scrolls and magical books.
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.
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1. Who:
Luke (Author of the Book of Acts)
Paul (Healer and the primary character)
Seven sons of Sceva: Jewish chief Priests (Demons spirits- exorcist, main
character)
Unnamed individual possessed (seven Sons of Sceva was performing an
exorcism)
Timothy and Erastus (Paul’s helpers)
Residents Jews and Greeks (Not main characters)
Jesus Christ and the Almighty God, the reason Paul was performing miracles.
2. What:
Through the power of God, Paul performed miracles, including the healing of
individuals afflicted by demonic possession. Seven sons of Sceva attempted an exorcism, but the
demon recognized their lack of authority and attacked them. Upon hearing of the priests' return,
battered and unclothed, from their encounter with the demonic spirits, the residents became
fearful and renounced their scrolls and sorcery. Paul then sent his assistants, Timothy and
Erastus, to continue his work, while he himself remained in an Asian region for a period of time.
3. Where:
Region of Ephesus, the story mentions Jerusalem, Achaia, and Rome, Asia where
Paul spent some time. Macedonia where timothy and Erastus
4. When:
During the years Paul spent talking about the kingdom of God and performing
miracles through Him, “This went on for two years so that all the Jews and Greeks who lived in
the province of Asis heard the word of the Lord” (Acts 19:10)
5. Why:
Why are people getting healed?
Because of the miracles, Paul is performing through God.
Why does the Demonic Spirit attack the Seven Sons of Sceva?
Wicked spirits realized that God hadn’t given them the capacity to be strong and
powerful. The spirit approaches the priests and asks where Paul and Jesus are, then overwhelms
them
Why do the people who live in Ephesus sell their scrolls and witchcraft?
Residents become fearful of the Power that God gave to Paul, and after the incident
with the demonic spirit and Sceva.
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6. How:
How did Paul assist others?
He served others given that God has given him the capacity to do so. Lord
acknowledged Paul to be an ambassador and was certain that he was unlikely to exploit his
position of authority for personal gain.
How did the Greeks and Jews feel the defeat of the Seven Sons of Sceva?
The residents started to fear God, they witnessed the marvels that Paul had done
because of Him. They were aware of the strength of God and witnessed the priests’ effort to take
advantage of it.
How did Paul and the helpers end up in Asia?
He continues his journey and arrives in Asia with two of God’s aides after
witnessing that people have abandoned their books and scrolls and have begun to fear him.
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