BIBL 104
Page 1 of 3
Name: Christa Bourque
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 accounts assert that handkerchiefs were consecrated by Paul and used for the
healing of the infirm.
2. Similarity –
Both versions indicate that the evil spirit attacked them, prompting their escape
from the house naked and hurt.
3. Difference –
The ESV version claims that “Jewish exorcists undertook to invoke the name of the
Lord Jesus” while the NCV version states that “some people also were traveling
around and making some evil spirits go out of people”. The ESV version provides
greater specificity regarding "who."
4. Difference -
The NCV version employs the phrase “special miracles,” whereas the ESV version
utilizes the term “extraordinary miracles” to describe Paul's actions.
5. Difference -
The ESV version provides a more detailed account than the NCV version.
C. Identify the basic elements of the story you are studying.
1. Main characters: (List them)
a. Paul
BIBL 104
Page 2 of 3
b. The Holy Spirit
c. Seven sons of Sceva
d. Evil spirits
e. Residents of Ephesus
f. Timothy and Erastus
2. Plot: (50-100 words)
The passage commences by indicating that God employed Paul to perform amazing
miracles. Subsequently, certain itinerant Jewish exorcists attempted to invoke the
name of the Lord Jesus onto those possessed by evil spirits. Unfortunately for them,
the evil spirit assaulted them, prompting widespread dissemination of the event
throughout Ephesus, which led to a significant number of individuals embracing
Christianity.
3. Story structure: (50-100 words)
The passageAoutlines Paul's third missionary tour in Ephesus, a region notorious for
pagan worship and magical endeavors. Following numerous miraculous healings and
exorcisms, Paul gained widespread recognition for his authority. The seven sons of
Sceva attempted to imitate Paul by invoking the name of the Lord Jesus over
individuals possessed by evil spirits, although their faith in Jesus was insincere.
Consequently, the evil spirit confronted them, leading to an assault and injury
inflicted upon them. In Ephesus, the news spread, leading many individuals who
previously did not believe in Christ to burn their magical scrolls, repent, and embrace
Christianity.
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:
Paul
Luke
Seven Sons Of Sceva
The Holy Spirit
Evil Spirits
Residents of Ephesus
Timothy and Erastus
2. What:
Miracles were performed by Paul.
Seven sons of Sceva attacked by evil spirits
A significant number of individuals embraced Christianity.
BIBL 104
Page 3 of 3
3. Where:
Ephesus
4. When:
Between 60 and 90 CE.
5. Why:
The story offers insight into the early Christianity
It shows the power of faith or lack thereof.
It offers the cultural atmosphere of that era.
6. How:
It illuminates the remarkable miracles carried out by Paul.
It emphasizes the distinction between authentic and superficial faith.
It demonstrates a substantial cultural transformation and the revolutionary
influence of the Gospel.
Powered by TCPDF (www.tcpdf.org)
