Acts 19:20 (KJV)

What does Acts 19:20 mean?

Acts 19:20 describes how the message about God spread powerfully and became stronger than any opposition in the city of Ephesus. The verse highlights that the teaching about Jesus was not just growing in numbers, but was also overcoming challenges and making a real impact.

This statement comes after a series of dramatic events in Ephesus, where Paul was preaching and many people were turning away from magic and idol worship. The writer, Luke, is summing up how the "word of God"—the teaching about Jesus—was making noticeable progress, even in a place known for spiritual resistance. The verse marks a turning point, showing that the Christian message was not just surviving but thriving in a difficult environment.

The Greek behind Acts 19:20

• "Mightily" (κατὰ κράτος, kata kratos): This phrase means "with great strength" or "with power." It emphasizes that the spread of the message was not weak or hesitant, but forceful and effective.
• "Grew" (ηὔξανεν, ēuxanen): This word means "to increase" or "to grow." It points to the steady and noticeable expansion of the Christian message in Ephesus.
• "Prevailed" (ἴσχυεν, ischyēn): This word means "to become strong" or "to have power." It suggests that the message was not just spreading, but was overcoming obstacles and proving stronger than opposing forces.

Why Acts 19:20 matters

• Acts 19:20 clarifies that the success of the Christian message in Ephesus was not just about numbers, but about real influence and victory over opposition.
• The verse connects to the wider story of Acts 19, where dramatic changes in people's lives—like burning magic scrolls—show the deep impact of the message.
• This summary statement helps the reader see that the spread of Christianity in the early church was marked by both growth and spiritual power, even in challenging places.