Verses 8-9
Luke’s reference to the many lamps (Gr. lampades hikani, lit. many torches) suggests that it was the combination of a long message and lack of oxygen that caused Eutychus to fall asleep. The Greek word translated "young man" (meanias) elsewhere describes a boy of eight to 14 years old. However, his name suggests that he may have been a slave, in which case he could have been in his thirties. [Note: Witherington, p. 607.] Doctor Luke pronounced Eutychus (lit. fortunate) dead.
"The length of Paul’s preaching may incline us to sympathize with sleepy Eutychus. The well-developed synoptic theme of wakefulness puts a different perspective on the matter. Falling asleep is a serious failure with potentially grave consequences. Paul’s dedicated preaching makes demands on his audience. They must be dedicated listeners who hear the word and ’bear fruit with perseverance (en upomone)’ (Luke 8:15). Eutychus failed and fell." [Note: Tannehill, 2:250.]
"I confess that Paul’s experience has always been a comfort to me. When I look out at the congregation and see some brother or sister out there sound asleep, I say to myself, ’It’s all right. Just let them sleep. Paul put them to sleep, too.’" [Note: McGee, 4:602.]
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