Acts 19, Part 1

Paul's return to Ephesus showed that as part of God's will, the timing was now right for him to be there, whereas it wasn't before, when he had to leave even when they asked him to stay (Acts 18:19-21).  This time, he had a long ministry for probably about three years, where he encountered disciples of John the Baptist who didn't yet know the full gospel message, argued persuasively with Jews who "publicly maligned the Way", taught in the hall of Tyrannus, and performed extraordinary miracles. And "the word of the Lord spread widely and grew in power."

Ephesus was a place where many practiced sorcery and thus evil spirits and demons seemed to be active there.   But, it was interesting to see that the demons recognized the authority and power of Christ and Paul; but, not of the imitating counterfeits. And, it was neat to see that, in fear, the people were challenged to stronger personal commitment - highly honoring the name of Jesus, openly confessing sins, and burning their sorcery scrolls publicly.    This shows that true commitment to the Lord requires a life that does not compromise.

And, again, with Paul's plans to go to Jerusalem via Macedonia and Achaia, and then Rome; his staying in the province of Asia and sending Timothy and Erastus to Macedonia instead, showed that God Timing and Plan were different.   Also,Paul would later go to Rome; but, as a prisoner, probably not the way he would've expected.