School of Tyrannus: Acts 19:8-10
“8) And he entered the synagogue and continued speaking out boldly for three months, reasoning and persuading them about the kingdom of God. 9) But when some were becoming hardened and disobedient, speaking evil of the Way before the people, he withdrew from them and took away the disciples, reasoning daily in the school of Tyrannus. 10) This took place for two years, so that all who lived in Asia heard the word of the Lord, both Jews and Greeks.” Acts 19:8-10
Since the Christians had no buildings of their own, they used whatever space God opened for them. In many places, this started out being the local synagogue. Such was the case in Ephesus. For three months the synagogue opened its doors to Paul and his team.
They spoke out daily for a period of three months until stiff opposition to the gospel began to build. The text stresses that they labored daily. Take note of the fact that they worked for the cause of Christ. St Augustine later said; “Pray as if it all depends on God; work as if it all depends on man.” Such was the balance of Paul and his team. The result was that some believed while others became hardened to the gospel. Soon the synagogue closed its door to them.
By that point they gained welcome at the school of Tyrannus. His identity is not known, but he offered his space to the Apostle and his team. He was most likely Greek, and that ensured the doors were opened to all who wanted to hear and learn. They switched locations and for the next two years the daily teaching resumed.
Some try to make the case in verse 9, from the phrase; “he withdrew from there and took away the disciple”, that the Christians became exclusive. I do not see that being implied. Rather I see them being accommodating and avoiding undo conflict. They peacefully departed the synagogue and found an alternative place to meet.
At no point did they become isolated, secretive or cultish. To the contrary, the move become more open and accessible to everyone. For the next two years they met openly to the point that “all who lived in Asia heard the word of the Lord, both Jews and Greeks.” (Vs 10)
However, I will argue that the daily teaching most likely became progressively deeper. The whole of Scripture was explored and the full spectrum of New Testament Doctrine unpacked. Paul was raising up the next wave of disciples and leaders for churches across Asia.
This may have served as the backdrop for 2 Timothy 2:1-2; “1) You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2) The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” Paul may have been referring to the School of Tyrannus.
This eradicates the notion that the early believers were shallow and emotional. To the contrary, they were diligent, studious, well educated and trained in ministry. They walked in the Spirit and sharpened their minds with equal zeal.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global
