(R)eceive, (E)xamine, (D)ecide

The R.E.D. Approach to knowing the truth.

Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true (Acts 17:11NIV).


As we gain progress in our spiritual journey, there may come a time when we pause and reflect on concepts we heard or shared to us even by people whom we trust and respect. Moreover, we might have accepted these as truth without second thought. After all, these are part of the mainstream or prevailing view in our Christian community.

Like the Berean believers of old, it would be wise for us to take a step back or two and examine the Scriptures to determine whether THESE ARE TRUE. The Holy Book is our ultimate authority. We should not hesitate to ask legitimate questions like,

“Is the idea being propounded consistent with what is already revealed in God’s Word?”

“Is it in agreement with the will and character of God?”

“Does it discourage unrighteous living and encourage holiness and righteousness?”

“Does it make me love and appreciate God more for who He really is?”

Bear in mind that we are not questioning, we are asking questions. What do we mean by this? Well, “questioning” has a negative connotation, while “asking question” means to desire to be enlightened. The former may be construed as a personal attack while the latter a genuine intent to learn and obtain clarity on the issue at hand.

In my succeeding posts we will highlight some of these ideas or concepts, put them to the test (1 Thessalonians 5:21), we’ll ask questions, and decide if they are true or not.

Are you with me? Let’s start.

Concept #1: Christians have already been forgiven of their sins past, present and future.
(see next post for discussion - STAY TUNED)

The Berean Forum

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

God's Existence

World Religions

Truth and Relativism

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.