These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

ACTS 17:11KJV
Know the Bible

Acts 17:11 (KJV)

What does Acts 17:11 mean?

Acts 17:11 describes how the people in Berea were considered more noble than those in Thessalonica because they eagerly received Paul’s message and carefully examined the Scriptures every day to see if what he said was true. The verse highlights their open-mindedness and their commitment to verifying teachings against their sacred writings.

In the setting of Acts 17, Paul and Silas are traveling and teaching about Jesus. When they arrive in Berea, the local Jewish community listens to them with readiness and checks the Scriptures for themselves. This verse shows a contrast with the previous city, Thessalonica, where Paul faced more resistance. The focus is on the Bereans’ thoughtful and diligent approach to new teachings.

The Greek behind Acts 17:11

  • "noble" (εὐγενέστεροι, eugenesteroi): This word means "of noble character" or "open-minded," and here it suggests the Bereans were fair, generous, and willing to consider new ideas thoughtfully.
  • "searched" (ἀνακρίνοντες, anakrinontes): This word means "examined" or "investigated," often used for careful inquiry or legal examination. The Bereans did not just accept what they heard; they actively and thoroughly checked the Scriptures.
  • "readiness of mind" (προθυμίας, prothymias): This phrase means eagerness or willingness. The Bereans were not skeptical or closed off but approached Paul’s message with a positive attitude, ready to learn.
  • "daily" (καθ’ ἡμέραν, kath’ hēmeran): This phrase means "every day," emphasizing that their investigation was ongoing and consistent, not just a one-time check.

Why Acts 17:11 matters

  • Acts 17:11 clears up the idea that faith means accepting things blindly; it shows that questioning and verifying teachings is valued.
  • The verse emphasizes the importance of personal engagement with Scripture, not just relying on leaders or tradition.
  • Acts 17:11 connects to the wider passage by highlighting different responses to Paul’s message and showing that openness and careful study are commended.

Where else these words appear

“noble” Greek G2104 · used in 3 verses

  • Luke 19:12 He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return.
  • 1 Corinthians 1:26 For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:

“Thessalonica” Greek G2332 · used in 5 verses

  • Acts 17:1 Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews:
  • Acts 17:13 But when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people.
  • Philippians 4:16 For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.

“mind” Greek G4288 · used in 5 verses

  • 2 Corinthians 8:11 Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have.
  • 2 Corinthians 8:12 For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.
  • 2 Corinthians 8:19 And not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind:

“searched” Greek G350 · used in 14 verses

  • Luke 23:14 Said unto them, Ye have brought this man unto me, as one that perverteth the people: and, behold, I, having examined him before you, have found no fault in this man touching those things whereof ye accuse him:
  • Acts 28:18 Who, when they had examined me, would have let me go, because there was no cause of death in me.
  • 1 Corinthians 4:4 For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord.