the Rev. Henry Huenemann
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 these things were so (Acts 17:11).
Bible Reading
Acts 17:1-15:Devotional
Paul was on his second missionary journey. He and Silas had preached in Philippi where the Lord opened Lydia's heart, and the jailor was converted with all his house, but where also they had been thrown into prison. On being released from prison they went to Thessalonica where they preached, and many believed. But the Jews, who believed not, made a big uproar, and the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night to Berea. Here they preached in the synagogue of the Jews. "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 these things were so."
What did the Bereans do? They received the word with a ready mind. They searched the Scriptures every day. They wanted to know, whether what the apostles preached was in harmony with the Bible. In other words, they wanted to know whether the apostles preached the true gospel, that they might not be led astray in believing a false gospel and be eternally lost.
And what did the apostles preach? That Christ must needs have suffered and risen again from the dead. And that this Jesus is the Christ. That is the true gospel revealed in the Old Testament and in the New Testament. "It is not a vain thing for you, because it is your life."
It is even so today. We too should search the Scriptures daily, and teach them to our children, that it may be well with us in time and eternity.
Prayer
Our Father, we cannot sufficiently thank Thee for Thy Word. May it be more precious unto us than gold and much fine gold, sweeter also than honey and the honey comb. May we as new born babes desire the sincere milk of the word, that we may grow thereby. May we increase in knowledge of the truth as it is in Christ Jesus. Sanctify us through Thy truth. Thy Word is truth. And may Thy Word be a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Scripture in Devotional: Acts 17:3; Deut. 32:47.
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