In the school of Tyrannus

Paul debated the kingdom of God in the synagogue for three months, but the Jews rejected the gospel he preached. “…He withdrew from them and took the disciples away with him, and had discussions daily in the school of Tyrannus.” (1) Paul and the Jewish believers left the synagogue and moved to a new base, which was the school of Tyrannus. In Corinth, the house of Titius Justus served as the base (Acts 18:7). In Ephesus, the school of Tyrannus became the base (transition from Jewish evangelism to Gentile evangelism). (2) The school of Tyrannus was a property owned by a Greek named Tyrannus. It is believed that Tyrannus rented out the lecture hall to traveling teachers. Paul rented this space and used it to debate and teach daily about the kingdom of God. (3) Paul taught in the afternoon (during what was commonly the siesta time). It was likely a time when the lecture hall was not in use. Notably, the Codex Bezae (Western Text) mentions the time as “from 11 am to 4 pm.” This is probably a reliable tradition. Paul likely worked during the morning and evening hours. “This took place for two years, so that all who lived in Asia heard the word of the Lord, both Jews and Greeks.” (1) Paul’s ministry in the school of Tyrannus lasted for two years. In Acts 20:31, Paul’s message to the elders of Ephesus states: “Therefore, be on the alert, remembering that night and day for a period of three years I did not cease to admonish each one with tears.” Three months in the synagogue plus two years, in Hebrew sense, can be said as “three years.” (2) Paul’s ministry led to the establishment of various churches in the province of Asia. (a) In the Lycus Valley, churches such as Colossae, Laodicea, and Hierapolis were founded. These were likely the result of the efforts of believers who had learned from Paul. (b) Other churches mentioned in Revelation 2-3, including Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, and Philadelphia, are also thought to have been established during this period.

Lessons for us

(1) The foundation of a fruitful ministry is the accumulation of faithful service. (2) For ministry to bear fruit, it is essential to grow as a servant who is usable by God. The work of saving souls is carried out by the risen Jesus Christ, and those used by Him are mature servants. (3) Observing Paul’s ministry in Ephesus, we see that while physical activity may decrease with age, spiritual impact increases. (4) Evangelism expands through discipleship training.