13/02/2015 - A LESSON FROM THE NOBLE BEREANS

• 
• 
• 
• 

These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.  Acts 17.11

Apostle Paul had a terrible experience in Thessalonica. Besides, throughout all the places that God sent him, he was always opposed by the Jews, false masters, and mercenaries, who felt resentful due to the propagation of the Truth (2 Tm 3.10,11). Man is evil; even knowing that his doctrine does not have light, he is able even to kill those who carry God’s message only for a financial or political gain. However, God cares for those who are faithful to Him (Ps 31.23).

The Thessalonian brethren sent Paul and Silas to Berea, and once they got there, they were not defeated by the persecution and went right away to teach the Word in the synagogue. This is the most important work of the servants of God: carrying the Good News of what Jesus did in the cross of Calvary in humanity’s favor. Therefore, we should not bother if we will be well treated or not.

The Jews from Berea were nobler than those from Thessalonica, for they received the Word with attention and readiness. This shows us that it does not matter if a certain religious group rises against our ministry; there will be others who will be happy in learning the truth. We must not pay attention to flesh and blood, because our battle is spiritual (Ep 6.12). Following the Lord’s direction, we will always be successful wherever He sends us.

It is important that everyone examines what is written in the Scriptures and refuse any sermon that is not based on them. Everything that is said that contrasts with the Holy Book must not be accepted, no matter who says it. We have a commitment with the truth, and therefore, we should not commit ourselves with the evil one, even if he who brings us the information is someone known for doing good (Gl 1.8). Stay with what the Bible says and you will never fall in mistake.

The Bereans examined if what the apostles said was according to the Word of God. If everyone did the same, there would be no deceived person, and on the other hand, those who preached false doctrines would be exposed. There is no greater evil than teaching what does not come from Scriptures, for it brings the demons to act in the lives of the people.

One of the lessons that the apostles left us is not to be saddened with the persecutions. After all, those who live piously in Christ will suffer them (Mt 10.22). However, we must rejoice for being used by the Creator in order to fulfill His purposes. Therefore, it does not matter if people applaud or condemn you; be always faithful to Jesus’ last order.

One day, in Heaven, we will listen to the Lord telling us the explanation for us having to go through so many sufferings even though we do what is good. Being so, do not lose heart nor think about taking your hand away from the plow (Lk 9.62). God knows everything about us, about what we used to be – and we were not good – and why did He trust in us. May you never disappoint Him!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares