Book of Acts - Chapter 19 - Verse 19

In this verse from the book of Acts, we see a powerful demonstration of repentance and turning away from practices that are not in line with the teachings of Christianity. The phrase "curious arts" refers to practices such as sorcery, divination, and other occult activities that were common during that time. The individuals mentioned in this verse recognized the error of their ways and decided to fully commit themselves to their newfound faith by publicly destroying their books of magic and divination. By burning their books before all men, they symbolically renounced their past beliefs and practices, showing a radical transformation and commitment to following the teachings of Jesus. The large sum of money mentioned, fifty thousand pieces of silver, emphasizes the valuable nature of the books they burned, highlighting the depth of their sacrifice and commitment to their new faith.

In Acts 19:19, the phrase "curious arts" is translated from the Greek word "periergos," which can be interpreted as referring to magical practices or sorcery. This verse depicts a scene where believers who had previously engaged in these occult practices come to faith in Christ and demonstrate their repentance by destroying their valuable books of spells and incantations. By burning these books, they symbolically renounce their former ways and commit themselves fully to their new life in Christ. The mention of the significant value of the books, totaling fifty thousand pieces of silver, underscores the seriousness and magnitude of their decision to turn away from their old practices. This act serves as a powerful testimony to the transformative power of the gospel in the lives of believers, as they choose to follow Christ wholeheartedly and leave behind any remnants of their former lives that were in opposition to God's will.