BIBL 104
Name: Kristan N. Crowe
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 translations refer to the handkerchiefs and aprons that Paul
touched to heal the sick; even handkerchiefs or aprons” (ESV), “handkerchiefs or
aprons (
2. Similarity – Both translations show the Both passages show that thru Paul his
reputation is known throughout.
3. Difference – A difference would be in how they describe God performing miracles
through Paul.
4. Difference – A difference would be the wording between the high priest and leading
priest Sceva.
5. Difference - At the end of the text, a difference in the scripture shows Paul in the
ESV being resolved to go, and in the NLT, Paul feeling compelled to go by the
Spirit. Being compelled is about being driven to act, while being resolved is about
making a conscious decision to act.
C. Identify the basic elements of the story you are studying.
1. Main characters: (List them)
Paul
Timothy
Erastus
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The Seven Sons of the High Priest Sceva
2. Plot: (50-100 words)
The central theme of the Book of Acts is the exploration of the early church. In
Acts 19:11-22, the narrative delves into the respect that demons held not only for
Christ but also for Paul. Meanwhile, certain individuals attempted to leverage
Paul's authority over the demons; however, the demons disregarded the utterances
of the seven sons of the priests.
3. Story structure: (50-100 words)
Note: Plot and Story Structure are not the same thing (see the tutorial and student example)
Introduction: Acts 19:11-22 begins with the illustration of God performing
miracles through Paul.
Inciting Incident: The inciting incident is when the Seven Sons of Sceva
attempt to communicate with the spirit to cast out evil.
Rising Action: When the host of the evil spirit responds with the
knowledge of Jesus and Paul but questions the identity and authority of the
sons of Sceva.
Climax: The moment when the evil spirit overwhelmed the Seven Sons of
Sceva
Falling Action: The public burnings of the scrolls concerning magic from
the Jews and Greeks
Resolution: Paul decides to go to Jerusalem, wanting to pass through
Macedonia and Achaia, to reach Rome ultimately.
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:
Luke, (Author of the Book of Acts)
Paul (Healer and the primary character)
Seven Sons of Sceva; Jewish Chief Priests
Unnamed individual Possessed
Timothy and Erastus (Paul’s helper)
Residents Jews and Greeks (not main characters)
Jesus Christ and the Almighty God, the reason Paul was performing
miracles
2. What:
What took place in the passage?
- Through God, Paul was doing miracles, including curing individuals
possessed by demonic spirits. Seven sons of Sceva were performing an
exorcism, and the demonic spirits recognized it was not Jesus or Paul;
they attacked him. Once residents learn that the priests have returned
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naked and injured from the demonic spirits, they get fearful and decide
to abandon their scrolls and witchcraft. Paul dispatches his assistants,
Timothy and Erastus while remaining in an Asian region for some
time
3. Where:
Where did the passage take place?
- The passage took place in Ephesus.
4. When:
When did the passage take place?
- This passage took place during Paul's third missionary journey.
5. Why:
Why did God perform miracles?
The miracles serve to illustrate the power of God through Paul
Why did the evil spirit question the seven sons of Sceva?
To reinforce the authority of Jesus Christ
Why did fear fall amongst the community?
To bring transformative changes to the community of Ehesus by rejecting
evil practices.
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.
6. How:
How did the sons of Sceva come across the evil spirit?
The sons of Sceva attempt to use the name of Jesus without authority,
leading to a confrontation with the host of an evil spirit
How did the evil spirit expose their lack of authenticity?
By acknowledging Jesus and Paul but asking who they were, which lead
to them being overpowered and humiliated.
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
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done because of Him. They were aware of the strength of God and
witnessed the priests' effort to take advantage of it
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