Why We Desperately Need Modern Bereans

Daily Devotional – Friday, June 10, 2022
Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.
Acts 17:11 (ESV)

In Thessalonica,
“Paul went in, as was his custom, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them (Jews) from the Scriptures, explaining and proving that it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead, and saying, “This Jesus, whom I proclaim to you, is the Christ.” (Acts 17:2-3)

As a result, many Jews and gentiles became Christians.

Nobler Jews Examining the Scriptures Daily

This angered radical Jews. They organized a riot that led to Paul and Silas leaving Thessalonica for Berea by night. According to Luke, in Berea,
“…these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.” (Acts 17:11).

The term ‘noble’ implies open-mindedness. They compared Paul’s teachings with the Old Testament. Setting aside their prejudices, they searched the scriptures. Consequently, many of them believed.

Why We Desperately Need Modern Bereans

Today, there is a multiplicity of Christian denominations, all claiming to read the same Bible. It is rare to find people with conflicting beliefs sitting together to examine the Bible for the truth.

If we subjected all our beliefs to the impeccable Word of God, there would be more harmony and love among Christians. Such a practice would also promote incisive Bible study and spiritual growth. The world would believe that Jesus is the Son of God. (John 17:21).

The next time you meet a Christian with a different set of beliefs, be a Berean. Examine the scriptures.

Prayer
Lord Jesus, make me a modern-day Berean.