Acts 17:11 Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.

◄ Acts 17:11 ►

New International Version
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.

New Living Translation
And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul’s message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth.

English Standard Version
Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.

Berean Standard Bible
Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.

Berean Literal Bible
Now these, who were more noble than those in Thessalonica, received the word with all readiness, on every day examining the Scriptures, whether these things were so.

King James Bible
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.

New King James Version
These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.

New American Standard Bible
Now these people were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.

NASB 1995
Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.

NASB 1977
Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily, to see whether these things were so.

Legacy Standard Bible
Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.

Amplified Bible
Now these people were more noble and open-minded than those in Thessalonica, so they received the message [of salvation through faith in the Christ] with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.

Christian Standard Bible
The people here were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, since they received the word with eagerness and examined the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
The people here were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, since they welcomed the message with eagerness and examined the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.

American Standard Version
Now these were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of the mind, examining the Scriptures daily, whether these things were so.

Contemporary English Version
The people in Berea were much nicer than those in Thessalonica, and they gladly accepted the message. Day after day they studied the Scriptures to see if these things were true.

English Revised Version
Now these were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, examining the scriptures daily, whether these things were so.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
The people of Berea were more open-minded than the people of Thessalonica. They were very willing to receive God's message, and every day they carefully examined the Scriptures to see if what Paul said was true.

Good News Translation
The people there were more open-minded than the people in Thessalonica. They listened to the message with great eagerness, and every day they studied the Scriptures to see if what Paul said was really true.

International Standard Version
These people were more receptive than those in Thessalonica. They were very willing to receive the message, and every day they carefully examined the Scriptures to see if those things were so.

Majority Standard Bible
Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.

NET Bible
These Jews were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they eagerly received the message, examining the scriptures carefully every day to see if these things were so.

New Heart English Bible
Now these were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of the mind, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.

Webster's Bible Translation
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.

Weymouth New Testament
The Jews at Beroea were of a nobler disposition than those in Thessalonica, for they very readily received the Message, and day after day searched the Scriptures to see whether it was as Paul stated.

World English Bible
Now these were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.

Literal Translations

Literal Standard Version
and these were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all readiness of mind, examining the Writings every day [to see] whether those things were so;

Berean Literal Bible
Now these, who were more noble than those in Thessalonica, received the word with all readiness, on every day examining the Scriptures, whether these things were so.

Young's Literal Translation
and these were more noble than those in Thessalonica, they received the word with all readiness of mind, every day examining the Writings whether those things were so;

Smith's Literal Translation
And they were of more noble birth than those in Thessalonica, who received the word with all willingness, and examined the writings daily, if these things might hold thus.

Catholic Translations

Douay-Rheims Bible
Now these were more noble than those in Thessalonica, who received the word with all eagerness, daily searching the scriptures, whether these things were so.

Catholic Public Domain Version
But these were more noble than those who were at Thessalonica. They received the Word with all enthusiasm, daily examining the Scriptures to see if these things were so.

New American Bible
These Jews were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with all willingness and examined the scriptures daily to determine whether these things were so.

New Revised Standard Version
These Jews were more receptive than those in Thessalonica, for they welcomed the message very eagerly and examined the scriptures every day to see whether these things were so.

Translations from Aramaic

Lamsa Bible
For the Jews there were more liberal than the Jews who were in Thes-sa-lo-ni’ca, in that they gladly heard the word daily, and searched the scriptures to find out if these things were so.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
For those Jews who were there were nobler than those Jews who were in Thessaloniqa, and they were hearing gladly from the word every day while they were distinguishing from Scripture whether these things were so.

NT Translations

Anderson New Testament
These were of a better disposition than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with all readiness of mind, examining the Scriptures daily, whether these things were so.

Godbey New Testament
but these were more noble than those in Thessalonica, who received the word with all enthusiasm, searching the scriptures daily, if these things are so.

Haweis New Testament
Now these were more liberally minded men than those of Thessalonica, for they received the word with all readiness of mind, daily, examining the Scriptures if these things were really so.

Mace New Testament
the Jews there were of a more generous temper than those of Thessalonica: for they very readily embrac'd their doctrine, and daily examin'd, whether it was conformable to the scriptures.

Weymouth New Testament
The Jews at Beroea were of a nobler disposition than those in Thessalonica, for they very readily received the Message, and day after day searched the Scriptures to see whether it was as Paul stated.

Worrell New Testament
And these were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, examining the Scriptures daily, whether these things were so.

Worsley New Testament
These were more ingenuous than those at Thessalonica; for they received the word with all readiness of mind, searching the scriptures daily, whether these things were so.

Additional Translations ...

Audio Bible

Context

The Character of the Bereans
10As soon as night had fallen, the brothers sent Paul and Silas away to Berea. On arriving there, they went into the Jewish synagogue. 11Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true. 12As a result, many of them believed, along with quite a few prominent Greek women and men.…

Berean Standard Bible · Download

Cross References

John 5:39
You pore over the Scriptures because you presume that by them you possess eternal life. These are the very words that testify about Me,

1 Thessalonians 5:21
but test all things. Hold fast to what is good.

2 Timothy 3:15-17
From infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. / All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, / so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work.

Psalm 119:11
I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.

Psalm 119:105
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

Isaiah 8:20
To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn.

Romans 15:4
For everything that was written in the past was written for our instruction, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures, we might have hope.

1 John 4:1
Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God. For many false prophets have gone out into the world.

Proverbs 2:1-5
My son, if you accept my words and hide my commandments within you, / if you incline your ear to wisdom and direct your heart to understanding, / if you truly call out to insight and lift your voice to understanding, ...

Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

Luke 16:29
But Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let your brothers listen to them.’

1 Peter 2:2
Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation,

Jeremiah 29:13
You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.

Matthew 13:23
But the seed sown on good soil is the one who hears the word and understands it. He indeed bears fruit and produces a crop—a hundredfold, sixtyfold, or thirtyfold.”

Colossians 3:16
Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.

Treasury of Scripture

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.

more.

Proverbs 1:5
A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels:

Proverbs 9:9
Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.

Jeremiah 2:21
Yet I had planted thee a noble vine, wholly a right seed: how then art thou turned into the degenerate plant of a strange vine unto me?

they received.

Acts 2:41
Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

Acts 10:33
Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.

Acts 11:1
And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God.

and searched.

Psalm 1:2,3
But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night…

Psalm 119:97,100,148
MEM. O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day…

Isaiah 8:20
To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.

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Attention Beroea Character Daily Disposition Examined Examining Holy Jews Message Mind Noble Nobler Paul Readily Readiness Received Receiving Scriptures Searched Searching Serious Thessalonians Thessalonica Thessaloni'ca True. Whether Word Writings

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Acts 17

1. Paul preaches at Thessalonica, where some believe,
5. and others persecute him.
10. He is sent to Berea, and preaches there.
13. Being persecuted by Jews from Thessalonica,
16. he comes to Athens, and disputes and preaches the living God, to them unknown;
32. whereby, though some mock, many are converted unto Christ.

Berean Study Bible

Now the Bereans
The Bereans were inhabitants of Berea, a city in Macedonia. Historically, Berea was a city of some significance, known for its strategic location and cultural diversity. The Bereans are highlighted in this passage for their exemplary approach to receiving the Gospel. The Greek term used here, "Βεροιᾶς" (Beroias), indicates a specific group of people who were open-minded and willing to engage with new teachings. This openness is a model for believers, encouraging a readiness to hear and consider the Word of God.

were more noble-minded
The phrase "more noble-minded" comes from the Greek word "εὐγενέστεροι" (eugenesteroi), which implies a higher moral and intellectual character. In the context of the ancient world, nobility was often associated with birthright, but here it refers to the Bereans' commendable attitude towards learning and truth. This noble-mindedness is a call for Christians to approach Scripture with integrity, humility, and a desire for truth, rather than preconceived notions or biases.

than the Thessalonians
The Thessalonians, in contrast, had a mixed response to Paul's message, with some accepting it and others reacting with hostility. This comparison highlights the importance of a receptive heart. The Thessalonians' initial resistance serves as a reminder of the challenges faced in spreading the Gospel and the varying responses it can elicit. It underscores the need for perseverance and prayer in evangelism.

for they received the message
The Bereans' reception of the message, or "λόγον" (logon), signifies their willingness to listen and consider the teachings of Paul and Silas. This reception is not passive but active, involving a conscious decision to engage with the Word. It challenges believers to be open to God's message, ready to receive it with an open heart and mind.

with great eagerness
The Greek word "προθυμίας" (prothymias) conveys a sense of zeal and readiness. The Bereans' eagerness reflects a deep hunger for truth and a sincere desire to understand God's Word. This eagerness is an inspiration for Christians to approach Bible study with enthusiasm and anticipation, recognizing the transformative power of Scripture.

and examined the Scriptures every day
The Bereans' examination of the Scriptures, "καταγινώσκοντες τὰς γραφὰς" (kataginoskontes tas graphas), indicates a diligent and thorough investigation. This daily examination suggests a disciplined and consistent approach to Bible study, emphasizing the importance of regular engagement with God's Word. It serves as a model for believers to be like the Bereans, who sought to verify the truth of the teachings they received.

to see if these teachings were true
The Bereans' desire to verify the truth, "εἰ ἔχοι ταῦτα οὕτως" (ei echoi tauta houtos), demonstrates their commitment to discernment and truth. This critical examination is not skepticism but a sincere quest for understanding. It encourages Christians to test all teachings against Scripture, ensuring that their faith is grounded in truth and not swayed by false doctrines.

Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers

(11) These were more noble than those in Thessalonica.--The word for "noble" (literally, well-born, as in 1Corinthians 1:26) had. like most words of like origin (such, e.g., as the Latin ingenuus), a wide latitude of meaning. Here it stands for the generous, loyal temper which was ideally supposed to characterise those of noble origin. This was the quality which the Apostle and the historian admired in the Ber?ans. They were not the slaves of prejudice. They were ready to believe in the gospel which St. Paul preached as meeting their spiritual wants; and so they came to the study of the proofs, which the preacher "opened and alleged," with a temper predisposed to faith. On the other hand, they did not accept their own wishes, or the Apostle's assertions, as in themselves sufficient grounds of faith. With a quick and clear intelligence they searched the Scriptures daily to see whether they really did speak of a Christ who should suffer and rise again. The Ber?an converts have naturally been regarded, especially among those who urge the duty, or claim the right, of private judgment, as a representative instance of the right relations of Reason and Faith, occupying a middle position between credulity and scepticism, to be reproduced, mutatis mutandis, according to the different aspects which each presents in successive ages.

Pulpit Commentary

Verse 11. - Now these for these, A.V.; examining for and searched, A.V.; these for those, A.V. Note the immense advantage which the preachers and the hearers had in the previous knowledge of the Scriptures gained by the Beraeans in the synagogue. Note also the mutual light shed by the Old and New Testaments the one upon the other.

Parallel Commentaries ...

Greek

Now
δὲ (de)
Conjunction
Strong's 1161: A primary particle; but, and, etc.

[the Bereans]
οὗτοι (houtoi)
Demonstrative Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3778: This; he, she, it.

were
ἦσαν (ēsan)
Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural
Strong's 1510: I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.

more noble-minded
εὐγενέστεροι (eugenesteroi)
Adjective - Nominative Masculine Plural - Comparative
Strong's 2104: (a) of noble birth, of high birth, (b) noble in nature. From eu and ginomai; well born, i.e. high in rank, or generous.

than the
τῶν (tōn)
Article - Genitive Masculine Plural
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

Thessalonians,
Θεσσαλονίκῃ (Thessalonikē)
Noun - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 2332: From Thessalos and nike; Thessalonice, a place in Asia Minor.

[for]
οἵτινες (hoitines)
Personal / Relative Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3748: Whosoever, whichsoever, whatsoever.

they received
ἐδέξαντο (edexanto)
Verb - Aorist Indicative Middle - 3rd Person Plural
Strong's 1209: To take, receive, accept, welcome. Middle voice of a primary verb; to receive.

the
τὸν (ton)
Article - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

message
λόγον (logon)
Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3056: From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression.

with
μετὰ (meta)
Preposition
Strong's 3326: (a) gen: with, in company with, (b) acc: (1) behind, beyond, after, of place, (2) after, of time, with nouns, neut. of adjectives.

great
πάσης (pasēs)
Adjective - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 3956: All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole.

eagerness
προθυμίας (prothymias)
Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 4288: Inclination, readiness, eagerness, willingness, promptness. From prothumos; predisposition, i.e. Alacrity.

[and] examined
ἀνακρίνοντες (anakrinontes)
Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 350: From ana and krino; properly, to scrutinize, i.e. investigate, interrogate, determine.

the
τὰς (tas)
Article - Accusative Feminine Plural
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

Scriptures
γραφὰς (graphas)
Noun - Accusative Feminine Plural
Strong's 1124: (a) a writing, (b) a passage of scripture; plur: the scriptures. A document, i.e. Holy Writ.

every
καθ’ (kath’)
Preposition
Strong's 2596: A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined).

day
ἡμέραν (hēmeran)
Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 2250: A day, the period from sunrise to sunset.

[to see] if
εἰ (ei)
Conjunction
Strong's 1487: If. A primary particle of conditionality; if, whether, that, etc.

these [teachings]
ταῦτα (tauta)
Demonstrative Pronoun - Nominative Neuter Plural
Strong's 3778: This; he, she, it.

were
ἔχοι (echoi)
Verb - Present Optative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 2192: To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.

true.
οὕτως (houtōs)
Adverb
Strong's 3779: Thus, so, in this manner. Or (referring to what precedes or follows).

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NT Apostles: Acts 17:11 Now these were more noble than those (Acts of the Apostles Ac)