Acts 17:11: Now these were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the Word with all readiness of the mind, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.
On Paul’s “second missionary journey,” he faced opposition in nearly every city he visited. When he arrived at Thessalonica, he taught at a Jewish synagogue for three sabbath days (Acts 17:2), and “Some of them were persuaded, and joined Paul and Silas, of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and not a few of the chief women” (verse 4). Certain of the Jews, though, rejected the teachings of Jesus, and set the city in an uproar (verse 5). These individuals, like many others, opposed the Messiah who was the very fulfillment of the law they claimed to follow (Matt. 5:17).
The Jewish Bereans described in Acts 17:11, however, did not oppose Christ. They were eager for the truth, regardless of its implications.
Why is it that so many reject needed change, instead of eagerly desiring truth like the Bereans of Acts 17:11? “God is not a God of confusion” (1 Cor. 14:33). The plan He instructs us to follow is clearly taught in His Word. Man’s resistance to God’s teachings cannot be explained by His Word being too difficult to understand. Here are a few things that perhaps do help to explain it:
Ignorance – Many desire God to speak to them, yet rarely pick up the book through which He does. Many seek self-help, yet disregard the book that provides “all things that pertain to life and godliness” (2 Pet. 1:3). Many are looking for hope, yet neglect the words of eternal life (John 6:68). We can hunger and thirst for the spiritual nourishment God provides (1 Pet. 2:2), or be spiritually malnourished. The Bereans chose wisely.
Trusting People More than God – Some are diligent in studying, but reject God’s teachings when they conflict with things taught by men and/or women who are trusted.
Fellow Christians can be a big help in understanding the Bible, but if something a man or woman says conflicts with what God says, God’s Word must reign supreme.
Fear of Rejection – There can also be a temptation to reject God’s teachings out of fear of how others will react. Consider the attitude of certain rulers in John 12:42-43: Nevertheless even of the rulers many believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they didn’t confess it, so that they wouldn’t be put out of the synagogue, for they loved men’s praise more than God’s praise.
In hindsight, it’s easy to see the foolishness of these chief rulers, but if we’re not careful, we can fall into the same trap as them.
Pride of Life – Some fail to change out of pride. If we are too proud to admit when we’re wrong, God will humble us on the Day of Judgment (Matt. 23:12).
The individuals from Berea described in Acts 17:11 were not overcome by these problems. They properly prioritized study of God’s Word, examining the Scriptures daily. They did not refuse to make needed changes, receiving the Word with a readiness of the mind. They accepted God’s Word even if it proved their preconceived notions or prior beliefs wrong. These Bereans simply listened to what was taught, compared it to God’s Word, and changed as needed to fit what He teaches (Acts 17:12). May we all choose to examine the Scriptures with frequency and with a heart that eagerly desires the wonderful truth God has given us.
– Michael Hickox