Definition: So that not only this our craft is in danger to be set at nought; but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised, and her magnificence should be destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worshippeth.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 19:27. It's a really important and complex passage about a powerful and dangerous religious figure. Here’s a simplified explanation: What it says: “So that not only this our craft is in danger to be set at nought; but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised, and her magnificence should be destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worshippeth.” Let's unpack it piece by piece: “So that not only this our craft is in danger to be set at nought…” – This means that the person speaking (who’s referred to as Paul) is worried about a significant threat to their work, their ministry, or their beliefs. “Craft” here refers to the practice of spreading the Gospel (the good news of Jesus). “Set at naught” means to be completely destroyed or ignored – it's a very serious threat. “…but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised…” – This is where it gets really interesting and complex. “Temple” refers to a place of worship, often connected with a goddess. "Diana" was a major goddess in ancient Greece and Rome, associated with the moon, hunting, and childbirth. So, Paul is saying that this person (likely a powerful figure) is deliberately trying to undermine the worship of Diana – which was incredibly important for many people at the time. He’s essentially saying they're trying to diminish her importance. “…and her magnificence should be destroyed…” - This emphasizes the disrespect and the attempt to erase or diminish the significance of Diana's power and presence in the world. “whom all Asia and the world worshippeth.” – This is a crucial part. It means that this person is trying to discredit the worship of Diana, particularly within regions like Asia and throughout the wider world. They’re aiming to make people stop or diminish their devotion to her. What does it mean in context? Paul was imprisoned and facing serious challenges. He understood that this person was actively working to undermine the faith and religious practices of a significant part of the world. It suggests a deliberate effort to sow doubt, disrespect, and potentially even harm believers. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a prophecy – a warning about the dangers of idolatry (worshiping anything other than God) and the potential for spiritual corruption. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points in more detail? Connect this verse to a specific historical context? Discuss what it might mean in terms of Christian theology?