Passion to Give...to Receive! (Acts 17:11-12; Proverbs 18:16)

Acts 17:11-12a  says, "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. Therefore, many of them believed..."

 The purpose of this study is to present one aspect as to why some receive the word of God, and some reject it, or are not in a position to receive it.

There are two words that are used in this text to describe the character of those of Berea:

  1) NOBLE- This word was originally used to describe those of "noble" or privileged birth, possessing both power and influence. However, later it came not only to describe their birth right, but those who were of exceptional character and moral standing, in their behavior. It was those, who though they didn't have to, were generous and giving in their affairs with others

2) READINESS of MIND - This is all one word in the Greek, and unfortunately, in it's five different uses in the KJV, is translated five different ways. It comes from a root word, which, in the KJV, is always translated as "wrath". The root word, more than the idea of wrath, conveys passion which boils up suddenly, and can just as suddenly dissipate. 

In this compound word, the prefix  presents the concept of forwardness, or quickness, even a certain promptness, towards an action. The concept is a certain passionate action toward something, or to do something, speedily, or with haste.

 Interestingly enough, the other uses of this word, are found in Paul receiving an offering from the Corinthian church ( 2 Cor.8:11,12,19; 9:2 ). Also of note, is that all the OT references but one, speak of freely giving of talents, or more specifically, money (1 Chr. 28:21; 29:5,6; 2 Chr. 17:16; 29:31,34 ).

 The conclusion, is that 'this word is used to predominantly express passionately giving towards something or someone'. 

Classical Greek usage also bears this out, where the word frequently refers to spontaneously or willingly giving and almost always contains an element of fervor, and always speaks of generosity, on the part of those who are labeled with this title.

 The application, in relation to our lives, is that the predominate reason that these people of Berea received, is that they are described in scripture, by the Greek terminology used, as 'passionate givers'.

In Proverbs 18:16, the KJV says a "... man's gift makes room for him..." . A more scripturally accurate translation, would be, "... a man's giving expands his capacity and leads or shepherds him into positions of authority."

 Also, we see how Cornelius' prayers, and GIVING, caused an angel to be sent from God to make way for his salvation, and that of his household ( Acts 10: 2-4 ).

 Our willingness and action of giving  opens up a capacity for us to receive from God the spiritual blessing He desires us to walk in, and benefit from the seed sown in our hearts.

You are God's Best and God's Best is Yours.