Beyond the Weekend

September 30 | Noble Character

September 30, 2019

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

As a result, many of them believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men. Acts 17:12

Read: Acts 17:10-15

Listen: Acts 17

TODAY’S MESSAGE

Believers in Thessalonica send Paul to Berea after jealous Jews stirred up a riot. Berea likely wasn’t a destination Paul planned. The city was 50 miles out of the way and off the main highway. Yet Paul faithfully begins where he always does, even in this unplanned stop. He teaches the Jesus-message at the Jewish synagogue.

The Bereans’ response stands in stark contrast to the Thessalonians who ran him out of town. Luke describes these Jews as having “noble character.” They were open-minded, fair and thoughtful. This community searched the Scriptures to see if Paul’s teaching matched Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah. Their character and eagerness drew others to understand what Jesus had done for them too.

This kind of noble character is compelling in our argumentative, sarcastic and doubt-filled society. Our humble dedication to Christ and commitment to the Bible can attract others to Jesus. This week, we will see how being open to God’s movement, staying anchored in Scripture, and being ready to serve can shape a community and build God’s church. We can be part of spreading the Jesus-message in our homes, neighborhoods and workplaces.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Does your character draw others to him or push them away? Write a prayer in your Strength for the Journey journal (on page 22) asking God to use you to bring others to himself. “Father, my deep desire is for people to be drawn to you as a result of what they see in me. As I begin this week, may everything I do and say reflect who you are and what you’ve done for me. Amen.”


Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.

 

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