Daily Bible Plan – Acts of the Apostels 19

17. March 2026

Devotion by Elder Eddie Filippi

Theme: My Job, My Kingdom Assignment

Devotion: Acts 19

Introduction

Greetings to you all in the mighty name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

I warmly welcome you today as we spend a few moments in the Word of God, reflecting on Acts.

Chapter 19

Acts 19 is a powerful chapter that reveals the importance of the Holy Spirit, the transformation that comes through Christ, and the authority that is in the name of Jesus. It shows us what happens when the Gospel is preached with power and when people truly encounter God.

The Power of the Holy Spirit in the Life of a Believer

When the Apostle Paul arrived in Ephesus, he met some disciples and asked them a very important question:

“Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” — Acts 19:2

They answered that they had not even heard that there was a Holy Spirit. Paul then explained the Gospel of Jesus Christ to them. After they believed, the Bible says:

“And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.” — Acts 19:6

This moment reminds us that the Christian life is not meant to be lived by our own strength.

God has given us the Holy Spirit so that we can live a life that pleases Him.

Jesus Himself promised this when He said:

“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me.” — Acts 1:8

The Holy Spirit gives believers power to live for God, power to overcome sin, and power to be witnesses of Christ in the world.

Without the Holy Spirit, Christianity becomes religion. But with the Holy Spirit, Christianity becomes a life filled with the presence and power of God.

The Bible reminds us:

“Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.” — Galatians 5:16

When we walk in the Spirit, He strengthens us, guides us, and shapes our character to become more like Christ.

A True Encounter with Jesus Brings Transformation

Another powerful moment in Acts 19 is when people who practiced magic and sorcery came to Christ. Their response was not casual—it was radical.

The Bible says:

“Many of them also who used curious arts brought their books together and burned them before all men.” — Acts 19:19

These books represented their old lives, their old practices, and the things that had controlled them before they knew Christ. When they encountered the power of God, they were willing to let go of everything that did not honor Him.

This reminds us of the truth in Scripture:

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” — 2 Corinthians 5:17

When Jesus truly enters a person’s life, change happens. Old habits begin to fall away, and a new life begins.

The Authority in the Name of Jesus

Acts 19 also tells us the story of the seven sons of Sceva who tried to cast out demons using the name of Jesus without truly knowing Him. The evil spirit responded:

“Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?" — Acts 19:15

This story teaches us that the name of Jesus is powerful, but it cannot be used without a genuine relationship with Him.

The Bible tells us:

“Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name.” — Philippians 2:9

The authority of Jesus flows through the lives of those who truly belong to Him.

When God’s Power Moves, His Word Prevails

Acts 19 concludes with a powerful declaration:

“So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.” — Acts 19:20

When believers are filled with the Holy Spirit, when lives are transformed, and when the name of Jesus is honored, the Word of God spreads with power. And that is still God’s desire today—to use His people to bring transformation to their families, their communities, and their generation.

Reflection

Acts 19 encourages us to ask ourselves:

• Are we walking daily in the power of the Holy Spirit?

• Has the Gospel truly transformed our lives?

• Do we have a real relationship with Jesus, not just knowledge about Him?

• God desires that every believer live a Spirit-filled life that reflects His power and His presence.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We thank You for the truth of Your Word. Thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Help us to walk daily in Your power and to live lives that honor You. Transform our hearts and help us to reflect the authority of the name of Jesus. May Your Word grow and prevail through our lives.

In Jesus’ mighty name we pray.

Amen. 🙏