Unstoppable! 'Searching the Scriptures' — Acts 17:10-12

Sunday, September 1, 2024

That very night the believers sent Paul and Silas to Berea [because of the turmoil created by the opposition in Thessalonica]. When they arrived there, they went to the Jewish synagogue. 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. As a result, many Jews believed, as did many of the prominent Greek women and men.

— Acts 17:10-12 NLT

Key Thought

People in ancient times were very much like us, at least in some ways: Many believers depended on others to tell them what God's Scriptures require of them and were reluctant to change from their traditions. Far too few took the time to study the Scriptures for themselves to see if what was told to them was consistent with God's inspired message. The Jewish synagogue worshipers in Berea were more open-minded, diligent, and committed than most. They not only "listened eagerly to Paul's message;" they also searched the Scriptures to see if what Paul and Silas were preaching was the truth. They should be examples to us as we pursue Jesus and listen to the Scriptures from both the Old and the New Testament.

Today's Prayer

Father, I know my soul hungers for a clear message from you. I ask, dear Father, that as I pursue you and your truth through the Scriptures, the Holy Spirit opens both my heart and my mind to receive, understand, love, and apply your truth to my life. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • 2 Timothy 1:3-7, 3:14-17
  • 1 Corinthians 2:9-16

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Illustration

Illustration of Acts 17:10-12 NLT — That very night the believers sent Paul and Silas to Berea [because of the turmoil created by the opposition in Thessalonica]. When they arrived there, they went to the Jewish synagogue. 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. As a result, many Jews believed, as did many of the prominent Greek women and men.

About This Devotional

Unstoppable! is a one-year devotional guide through the book of Acts. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage, a reflection and a prayer. The reflection opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges one to live for Jesus.

Unstoppable! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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