Acts__20
Scripture
Acts 20:9
Seated in a window was a young man named Eutychus, who was sinking into a deep sleep as Paul talked on and on. When he was sound asleep, he fell to the ground from the third story and was picked up dead.
Observation - What does it say?
The uproar in Ephesus has quieted down so the apostle Paul makes plans to leave Ephesus, preach in Troas on his way to Macedonia, and meet up with Titus, all the while continuing the collection for Judea. Sailing from Philippi Paul meets up with the disciples in Troas. Knowing his time is short he loses no time in encouraging the believers.
Understanding - What does it mean?
He’s alive! Fortunate for Eutychus …
Imagine the setting: A modest three story structure with “many lamps” casting dramatic shadows and filling the room with a smoky haze. It is Sunday, the ‘new” first day of the week. A sense of urgency compels the apostle Paul to preach to the believers; perhaps for the last time. No doubt he had been preaching to them in the morning hours as well but now it is nearing midnight. Our attention is hijacked by a young man who was sitting in an open window. Suddenly he dozed off and fell to his death. Ironically, the boy’s name is Eutychus which means, “good fortune”. Fortunately for him: The purpose and activity that has befallen Jerusalem and its surrounding lands was not of “human origin” as suggested by Gamaliel (Acts 6: 33-40). Fortunately, God’s redemptive plan did not end at the Cross. Fortunately, the disciples “devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer” (Acts 2:42). Fortunately, the evening included the Lord’s Supper as commanded and that it was observed regularly. Fortunately, by faith, the disciples believed Jesus when he said, “Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing …(John 14:12). As Peter had raised Tabitha (Acts 9:40), so Paul raises Eutychus. Fortunately, Paul risked ridicule or at the very least being misunderstood and simply “threw himself on the young man and put his arms around him,” declaring, “He’s alive” (Acts 20:10).
Life Application
Studying the Gospel and exercising the spiritual disciplines such as worship, teaching, prayer and the Lord’s Supper is not the exception but the norm for all believers. These activities should be a regular part of our life experience. When we are faithful in this we can expect the power of God to be present in signs and wonders. As it was in the book of Acts so it is today. God is crazy about people and wants to have a personal relationship with them. We can’t do this on our own but must partner with God in his purposes and plans. Young Eutychus was very fortunate that the church of Jesus Christ was operating in the fullness of God.
-Warren