Demetrius in Fausset's Bible Dictionary

1. A maker of silver portable models of the great temple and statue of Artemis (Diana) at Ephesus (Acts 19:24). They were kept as amulets against danger. Demetrius and his fellow craftsmen, in fear for their gains, raised a tumult against Paul as saying "they be no gods which are made with hands." Like many men he made regard for religion his plea, while really having an eye to self; "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 destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worshippeth." A religious party cry is sure to rouse many who care little at heart about piety. It shows how soon Christianity, notwithstanding its seeming weakness, was felt as a mighty power threatening pagandom with all its then greatness. 2. A Christian "having good report of all men, and of the truth itself," and of John (3 John 1:12). The gospel standard of truth witnessed his conformity to it in love and good works; a transparently real Christian.