Book of Acts - Chapter 17 - Verse 10
Meaning
When Paul and Silas were sent away to Berea by the brethren, it signified the urgency and importance of their mission. The decision to travel by night shows the clandestine nature of their departure, possibly to avoid any potential dangers or obstacles that could arise during the day. Upon arriving in Berea, they wasted no time and immediately went to the synagogue of the Jews to spread the word of God. This swift action demonstrates their dedication and commitment to sharing the teachings of Jesus Christ with others, regardless of the challenges they may face. By entering the synagogue, Paul and Silas show their respect for the Jewish traditions and their willingness to engage with the local community in a peaceful and respectful manner. Overall, this verse highlights the courage, determination, and faith of Paul and Silas in fulfilling their calling as messengers of the gospel.
Theological Overview
In Acts 17:10-11, we see an important moment in the missionary journey of Paul and Silas. The brethren in Thessalonica sent them away by night to Berea, where they entered the synagogue to preach the gospel. The word "brethren" in this context refers to fellow believers who were supportive and encouraging of their ministry. The journey by night signifies the urgency and importance of their mission. The significance of Berea lies in the fact that the people there were known for being more open-minded and willing to study and understand the scriptures. This highlights the importance of being receptive to the message of God and examining it with an open heart and mind. The mention of the synagogue of the Jews shows that Paul and Silas were committed to sharing the gospel with both Jews and Gentiles, as they believed that salvation was available to all who believed. This verse serves as a reminder for us to be diligent in sharing the gospel, to be willing to go wherever God leads us, and to be open to studying and understanding His word.