“Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.” (Acts 17:11)
In Christianity, the traits of questioning and examination are praised, not condemned. There is no such thing as “blind faith” in the New Testament – such terminology is man-made and anti-Scripture. The Bereans were lauded for their honest skepticism. They did not accept doctrine based upon emotionalism or traditionalism or cultural preference. They compared what was being taught to the Scriptures and examining it for truth by comparing it to truth. They asked questions, they listened actively, and then they made sure to work out their own salvation with fear and trembling (see Php 2:12).
We’d better not check our brains at the door if we are going to follow Jesus. He requires us to love God with all our heart… and all our mind, too. Christianity asks you to be a critical thinker and a student. There is no room for a passive faith. The Word is active and sharp, and those who wield it must do so with diligence and care.
Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites
Today’s Reading: Acts 17:10-21
Questions to ask:
- How does this show the continuation of Jesus’ work now going on in the church?
- How is the gospel, Paul’s preaching, and/or Paul’s defense received?
- What is the Holy Spirit doing in this text?
- What in our reading shows how Paul handled adversity and difficulty?
This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul. If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision