In Acts 17:11, we read: 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. (The New Living Translation)
This verse tells us four attributes essential to our spiritual growth – open mindedness; eagerness in listening to the word taught and preached; regularity in in-depth study of Scriptures; and, verification that what is taught is truth. I call this the Berean Mindset. This is the foundation of The Berean Forum – a semi-monthly assembly of eager believers to be exposed to a unique way of learning and studying the Scriptures.
Why call it “The Berean Forum”? I think for a very good reason and appropriate one. Our aim is to cultivate the Berean Mindset in a setting where one can freely participate in the discussion and interaction, hence, a Forum. This initiative is held every second and fourth Wednesday alternating with Prayer Meeting from 7:30PM to 9:00PM.
Although diverse topics are presented, they may be grouped under the following categories:
You and the World
You and the Church
Church Doctrines
Cults
Evangelism
You and Your Life
Sanctification
Holiness
Marriage/Home Life
We believe that learning is enhanced when various views on a given topic are encouraged to be expressed and afforded sufficient time for analysis, examination and clarification. The goal is to allow the truth of the Scriptures to emerge and not just someone’s point of view. It is hoped that this will further generate interest in a deeper study of God’s word, strengthen our faith, and provide elucidation on our widely-held beliefs that we take for granted.
The Apostle Paul instructed Timothy to be one who “…correctly handles the word of truth” (2
Tim. 2:15 NLT). The Apostle Peter exhorted in one of his letters to “always be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15 NLT). We believe that these instruction and exhortation are for us as well.
We invite you to join The Berean Forum. It will be a Wednesday evening well-spent.
Venue: 16 Falconer Drive, Mississauga, ON.
