Today’s Bible reading is Acts chapter 17
(Read the entire New Testament in 2014 by reading only one chapter each day)
In Thessalonica Paul and Silas risked their lives to preach the Gospel. They left for Berea under the cover of night and there found receptive hearts to the Good News of Jesus Christ. Three things can be said of the Berean Christians. First, they were honored. Acts 17:11 says, “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica.” Their attitude toward the message of Christ was a more honorable attitude. Their community stood out for its noble reception and respect to God’s Word. Second, they were open. Verse 11 says, “They received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily.” They listened to the sermons and searched the Scriptures to see if what the preachers were saying was in the Word of God. Not only were they honored and open, but also they were on their way to heaven. Acts 17:12 says, “Many of them believed.” Large numbers of men and women were saved and the grace and mercy of God was poured out. The great harvest at Berea made every suffering and hardship for the missionaries worthwhile.
Prayer: “Dear Father, may we be open to Your Word and hungry to search the Scriptures as were the Berean Christians. May our reverence and response to Your Word be honorable. In Jesus name. Amen.”
Randy J. McPheron
T.H.E.M. 