“These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so” (Acts 17:11). Today there are many different aids to Bible study. But in spite of more help than ever at our fingertips, many Christians are ignorant of the content and teachings of God’s word! According to Acts 17:11, the Bereans were “more noble” than the Thessalonian Jews because of their attitude toward the scriptures. The Bereans were true students of the word of God and we need to learn what made them such good students.
First, they received the word with all readiness of mind. There appears to be a lack of listening going on today. The people in the pews are sitting there, but very often they are not paying attention to what they are being taught. Many people are present in body, but absent in spirit. I would venture to say that the majority of people cannot tell you what the preacher said after he said it. The Bereans not only listened, but they learned. If you listen attentively, you will learn. And if you really love God’s Word, you will also read and study God’s word for yourself, and therefore learn.
Second, they were open-minded and obedient. One of the great problems which we have when we teach unsaved people is that we are dealing with narrow-minded people. One of the problems that preachers have is that often they are dealing with narrow-minded Christians! The Bereans were open to the teachings of the word of God. Christians must be ready to allow our wrong ideas to be replaced by what the Bible actually says. In verse 12 we are told that many believed. That means that they obeyed the Word of God and were saved. When we discover our error, we need to humbly change and wholeheartedly follow the truth.
Third, they searched the scriptures daily. Sometimes preachers preach pure heresy and nobody realizes it. Do not take what your preacher says blindly, but check your Bible and make sure his teaching is true! If you make sure that the preacher is teaching you the truth because you have “searched the scriptures daily,” it will be easier for you to spot a false teacher. Thoroughly examine the word of God and endure daily in its study. For their effort, the Bereans were rewarded with eternal life. As Christians sincerely study God’s Word they will have much joy, growth, knowledge, peace, and encouragement.
Kyle Campbell