“Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true” (Acts 17:11).

A disappointing trend of Christianity today is failure to check the validity of the messages we read from books, magazines, commentaries, and other online sources. But, the worst of it is how we shamefully treat the messages we hear from our pulpits and other audio and video sources.Like internet journalists of today who fail to factcheck the news and to verify their sources, Christians have become gullible and addicted to flamboyant and eloquent preachers without taking the time to examine the scriptures to see if what they hear from them is true. Many have become students of preachers instead of the Bible. If only believers will adopt good Bible study habits, there would be less deception and misleading that often disappoint.

There is so much chaos in our churches today that drives seekers away from the Gospel rather than attracting the world to Christ.  Self-styled apostles, prophets, evangelists, and pastors have muddied the waters with questionable prophetic ministries. As Paul said, “For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things(Phil. 3:18-19).

The proliferation of churches and ministries that peddle falsehood is the offshoot of such people. It’s because too many have become lazy Christians. The average Christian is too busy to read the bible every day.They spend less time in the word than any other activity. No wonder the enemy is laughing to the bank over our itching ears and careless manner of treating prophesy.

This is what makes the Jewish congregation in Berea so special. Notice how the Holy Spirit characterizes them in Acts 17:11. “Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.”

They took nothing for granted. The message of Christ is the expression of His very character and being. Consequently, it must be true and pure. It is a guiding light on the path of righteousness, so it must be without a shadow of doubt. It is a matter of life and death; therefore, they took pains to ensure its authenticity. O, that we had the same concern for the truth that sets us free (Jn. 8:12)!

So, may you care more for the truth and pay attention to the source of the messages you hear by making time to review them in the light of God’s word. For, the sound and oratory of the preacher do not validate the message. Only the Bible does.