When these two strong powerful bold leaders received serious threats on their lives as they served the risen and living Lord Jesus Christ, concerned and caring believers in Jesus Christ send Silas and Paul under cover of darkness from Thessalonica, along the Grecian coast to Berea, because of the mob mentality which had arisen.
There are helpful darkness’s and dangerous darkness’s. This darkness was becoming highly dangerous and they knew who was behind it all. Sin was taking a violent explosive form.
In Berea, these two men of God go into the Jewish synagogue, where the news about Jesus Christ, crucified and risen, is eagerly received and embraced. Check it out in the book of Acts in the New Testament.
They are in the same environment which had caused them trouble elsewhere, preaching the same message,using the same method, with no change of emphasis, no compromise over content and no watering down the truth. Paul would never have attempted to water down the truth.
The believers in Berea responded and reacted in a vitally important and significant manner. They checked up on what was preached and taught. Paul’s teaching was examined. “Is what this man is saying true?”
Never accept anything just because a preacher says so. Check it out.
Is what he is proclaiming supported and backed by The Scriptures? If not, deal with it. That can involve confronting him.
Believers need a solid foundation from the start, to prevent wobbling, woolly thinking and wondering, in years to come.
News of what was happening in Berea reached those who were so filled with jealousy and anger back in Thessalonica.
These religious rebels got a gang to go and stir up the crowds, and to agitate the people, and sow seeds of unrest and discontent. Hassle preacher Paul.
Paul had to move on, yet again, for his own safety, and security. This leader knew his work was not yet over. He still had much to do in the Kingdom of God. There were more people to speak to and, of course, these vital letters had to be written. He still had to make significant investments, and he was very aware of that. This leading apostle knew when to stay and also when to move, as he exercised discernment and wisdom and practical common sense, which today is frequently not all that common.
The Word of God is never a drowsy soothing sedative. It can shake and challenge our values, priorities and private beliefs.
The essential changes in attitude, conversation, lifestyle, relationships and beliefs, which God demands, are for our eternal good, always.
Sandy Shaw