THE “BEREAN” SPIRIT
NOVEMBER 18, 2025
TEXT: 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, we shall be discussing the life and nature of a particular set of people called the “Berean Christians”. These people demonstrated good values that must be studied and imbibed by every Christian.
If you read the full chapter from where our text was taken, you will realise that Paul and Silas had just been persecuted by the Thessalonian unbelievers who were trying to sabotage their efforts over their brethren who believed the apostles. This made the apostles depart for Berea where the first positive thing was recorded about these people that “they were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica”. The Bible went on to say that they examined the Scriptures daily in a bid to ascertain the genuineness of what the apostles preached to them on a daily basis. To be noble means to be lowly in heart, humble, not given to sentiments or prejudices, being honourable and dignified in character. The nobility that is ascribed to these people does not mean they were rich fellows or aristocrats. It simply means they had the quality of mind and soul required to receive the word of God simply and meekly like a child. (1 Peter 2:2, James 1:21-22).
They had a deep level of dignity which allowed them to be positively changed by the word of God through the mouth of Paul and Silas.
Their hearts were not bitter, proud, negligent, dismissive or stubborn like those in Thessalonica, Antioch of Pisidia, Iconium and others whom Paul had already encountered in the course of his missionary journeys.
INTRIGUING FACTS ABOUT THE BEREAN CHRISTIANS
- They were hungry to be spiritually fed. They did not care about the fact that the word might condemn their lifestyles. They were ready and prepared to receive. Some believers come to church with their hearts set and made up to accept only the aspect of the message that does not crucify them or sound too harsh and rebuking in nature. In this instance, reformation and repentance may be very difficult to achieve.
- They investigated the word diligently. They did not just stop at listening to the word. They proceeded to investigate tirelessly and energetically in order to confirm that Paul was indeed not misleading them. You can say they carried out deep spiritual investigation. Do not accept everything you hear hook, line and sinker. Ask questions. Go back to the source, which is the Scriptures.
- They were consistent and disciplined. They were consistent and disciplined in their quest to gain knowledge as the Bible told us that they were digging deeply practically every day.
- They studied with the right motive. It is very important to know that these people were studying hard not to despise, belittle or engage in a debate with Paul. Read the Bible because you want to grow, not because you want to secure vital points for your arguments with unbelievers and immature believers around you. Honour the preacher, but make sure that the greatest and ultimate reverence is given to the word.
SEARCHLIGHT: The best way for the word of God to impact our lives is for us to receive the word meekly like a child receives his or her breast milk humbly.
PRAYER: O Lord, help me to be noble-minded in receiving your word, in the mighty name of Jesus Christ.
BIBLE READING: Haggai 1 and 2, Zechariah 1, John 15
PASTOR MICHAEL OMOLE
