Commentators explain that Demetrius was a leader in a lucrative industry making silver models of the great temple of Artemis. These shrines, likely containing a small image of the goddess, were sold as souvenirs and objects for home worship to the many pilgrims visiting Ephesus. This highlights how deeply idolatry was woven into the city's economy, making the gospel a direct threat not just to religious beliefs, but to people's livelihoods.