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.
What does Acts 17:11 mean?
The Jews in Berea applied seriously to the study of the word preached to them.
Key themes
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Keep this verse inside Acts 17:11-15 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on Acts 17:11
These were more noble - ευγενεστεροι eugenesteroi. This literally means more noble by birth; descended from more illustrious ancestors. But here the word is used to denote a quality of mind and heart. They were more generous, liberal, and noble in their feelings; more disposed to inquire candidly into the truth of the doctrines advanced by Paul and Silas. It is always proof of a noble, liberal, and ingenuous disposition to be willing to examine into the truth of any doctrine presented. The writer refers here particularly to the Jews. In that - Because. They received the word ... - They listened attentively and respectfully to the gospel. They did not reject and spurn it as unworthy of examination.
Key words
- more noble
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more noble.
- more noble
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more noble.
Context in Acts 17
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Acts 17 belongs to the middle movement of the book, especially the section often described as Peter and Gentile opening. Acts traces the spread of the gospel from Jerusalem to Judea, Samaria, and the Gentile world through Peter, Paul, and the Spirit-led church. Read this chapter with the wider themes of Spirit, mission, and church in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
Related topics
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Bible verses about suffering and trials
Key passages on grief, endurance, lament, divine mystery, and the Christian claim that suffering is neither final nor meaningless.
Passages on asking, persistence, confession, dependence, and the way prayer shapes Christian life and attention.
Passages on the nature of truth, honesty, deception, the word of God as truth, and Jesus' claim to be the truth.
Glossary
- Thessalonica Place
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Biblical settlement. Modern identification: Thessaloniki.
- Berea Place
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A city of Macedonia to which Paul with Silas and Timotheus went when persecuted at Thessalonica ( Acts 17:10 , 13), and from which also he was compelled to withdraw. Modern identification: Veria.