The answer is: 2 years

Acts 19:8,10 - Paul spent two years in the school at Tyrannus. He also spent 3 months in the synagogue at Ephesus. Acts 20:31 says three years in Ephesus, so he may have spent longer there, or rounded up a part year to a whole year. It was at least 2 years 3 months he spent in Ephesus.

Ah, the bustling city of Ephesus, a hub of trade and culture in the ancient world! Think of it: Paul planting seeds at the school of Tyrannus for a good two years—what commitment! This was not just a break; this was a marathon of teaching and learning. Imagine the vibrant discussions and debates that took place, with eager learners soaking in new spiritual truths.

An interesting note about Ephesus is that it housed one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: the Temple of Artemis. People from far and wide would flock there to worship, creating a rich, and sometimes challenging, backdrop for Paul’s teachings. Travelers might wonder when they stopped by for this magnificent temple, “Who is this Paul, and what has he got to say?”

Moreover, Paul’s teaching in ways like those at the school of Tyrannus was crucial for building a strong community among early Christians. They did not have formal church buildings as we do today; instead, Paul fostered small gatherings that acted like spiritual incubators, aiding the growth of the faith.

Synchronization of this commitment compared to movement or conversion to new locations reflects how dedicated to their mission early Christians were, often on foot! So, while the raising of dialogue in the school was contagious, so was the quest for understanding and internal fellowship, sowing the seeds of early Christian unity that would strive to thrive. Isn't that the sort of spirit we still cherish today?