Good morning! Have you ever been in a situation where someone told you something, but you were uncertain if it was true? Have you heard something, but you desired to see for yourself to determine if it was true or not? Today, we will continue our reading in Acts chapter seventeen. Join us as we begin to read about the Bereans. Have a wonderful day.

Bible Verse – Acts 17:10-15 NLT

“¹⁰ That very night the believers sent Paul and Silas to Berea. When they arrived there, they went to the Jewish synagogue. ¹¹ And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul’s message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth. ¹² As a result, many Jews believed, as did many of the prominent Greek women and men.

¹³ But when some Jews in Thessalonica learned that Paul was preaching the word of God in Berea, they went there and stirred up trouble. ¹⁴ The believers acted at once, sending Paul on to the coast, while Silas and Timothy remained behind. ¹⁵ Those escorting Paul went with him all the way to Athens; then they returned to Berea with instructions for Silas and Timothy to hurry and join him.”

Key points

• The people of Berea heard the word, but most importantly they sought the scriptures to ensure Paul and Silas were speaking the truth.

• People believed.

• Prominent women in Thessalonica and Berea received Christ.

Reflection

Paul and Silas moved on to Berea (46 miles from Thessalonica). They continued to teach the Good News of Jesus Christ. They taught first in the synagogue and while many believed, others from Thessalonica went to Berea to discredit Paul. As a result, Paul left and Silas and Timothy continued the work of building the body of the church in Berea. Silas and Timothy eventually joined Paul in Athens (see 1 Thessalonians 3:1-6), and they continued to teach the Good News. Even against opposition they did not stop sharing the Good News.

Sisters and brothers, I have two points:

• The Bereans are a good example for us. The Bible warns us of false prophets and like the believers in Berea we should also search the scriptures to ensure what is being preached/taught to us aligns with the Bible and the Good News of Christ Jesus. Know the word for yourself.

• It is very easy to get distracted by the world, Facebook post, media, our “friends”, and other things, but stick to the mission. Despite the opposition we must continue to hold on to our faith and share the Good News. Keep persevering and praying.

Prayer

Father God we thank you for another day. We thank you for your grace and mercy in our lives. Lord Jesus, thank you for coming to save us and redeem us. Thank you for opening up our eyes and our hearts to receive your love and eternal salvation. Lord forgive us for the times when we were not aligned to your word. Lord soften our hearts and give us a willing spirit to serve you. Lord, touch those who are in need of healing, in need of mental clarity and peace, in financial need, or in need of shelter. Lord touch your children today. Comfort those who are grieving. Lord, heal their aching hearts. Give us a desire to serve you wholeheartedly. Annoint us and equip us for the day ahead. Give us favor today and throughout the week. In Jesus name, amen.

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