Riot in Ephesus

It is in Ephesus we learn of Paul's fearless courage and commitment to the Savior.  He arrived at Ephesus after teaching in the upper coasts; it was here that he confirmed the Holy Ghost on members whom had been baptized.  He spoke boldly in the synagogue disputing and persuading people of the teachings of Christ.

As a result of the growth in membership, silversmiths who made their living creating idols of the goddess Diana were loosing money and caused a disturbance in the city center.  They proclaimed Paul was a danger not only to their craft but also to their temple of the goddess Diana.  These people were filled with anger and cried out saying " Great is Diana of the Ephesians."

The crowd caught Gaius and Aristarchus, Paul's travel companions, and carried them into the theatre (photo) which held 25,000 people.  Paul's disciples would not let him enter the theatre due to the ensuing riot.  For two hours there was mass confusion and arguing in the theatre until the town clerk a friend of Paul, calmed the crowd and dispersed the people.  After the uproar Paul gathered the disciples and embraced them.