1. A captive girl set free (16-18)

On the way to the place of prayer, Paul was harassed by a slave girl with a spirit which made her clairvoyant. She earned a lot of money for her owners by fortune-telling. She kept on following Paul's party around, announcing that they were servants of the Most High God who taught the way to be saved. Paul was troubled. This girl seemed to be asking for help. So in the name of Jesus, Paul cast out the demon.

2. Angry businessmen (19-24)

The owners of the slave girl realized that they could no longer use her to make money. They were furious, and had Paul and Silas arrested and dragged before the authorities. The crowd joined in and God's servants were beaten and put in prison. Those who challenge a materialistic world with the gospel will surely get into trouble.

Application: Lord, help me to have a value system that puts people before money. Help me to challenge this materialistic society with the gospel.
One Word: Love people, not money