What scriptural connections can be drawn between Acts 17:12 and Romans 10:17? Verse Focus • Acts 17:12: “As a result, many of them believed, as did a number of prominent Greek women and men.” • Romans 10:17: “Consequently, faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” Immediate Context • Acts 17:10-11 shows the Bereans “received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures daily to see if these teachings were true.” Their belief in v. 12 flows straight from that Scripture-saturated hearing. • Romans 10:14-18 surrounds v. 17 with Paul’s concern that people cannot call on Christ unless someone preaches and they hear. The Word proclaimed is God’s chosen conduit for saving faith. Connecting Thread: Word-Centered Faith • Same progression in both passages: – God’s Word is proclaimed. – People truly hear (not mere sound but receptive listening). – The Spirit uses that Word to birth faith, leading to belief. • Acts 17:12 is a narrative illustration of the theological principle Romans 10:17 states. • Both texts underscore that Scripture itself—not persuasive technique or human charisma—carries the divine power that awakens hearts. Supporting Passages Reinforcing the Link • 2 Timothy 3:15-16—Scripture “is able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” • Hebrews 4:12—“For the word of God is living and active…” • 1 Peter 1:23—We are “born again… through the living and enduring word of God.” • John 20:31—The written record exists “so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ.” • Isaiah 55:10-11—God’s Word “will not return to Me empty, but will accomplish what I please.” Implications for Our Walk • Make the proclamation of Scripture central; faith springs from the Word, not from clever arguments. • Imitate the Bereans: receive teaching eagerly yet test everything by daily, personal Scripture study. • Expect the Spirit to work through plain reading and hearing of the Bible—He still does what Acts 17:12 records. • Share the gospel confidently; Romans 10:17 assures us that when people truly hear the Word of Christ, God can ignite saving faith. |
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