FOR HONEST SKEPTICS

READ: Acts 17:10-15

They … searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so. – Acts 17:11

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Proverbs 8-11

A sceptic is one who is inclined to doubt. If such a person is honestly seeking to know the truth, his doubting may be the first step toward finding the truth.

When Paul came to Berea, he found Jews who were more “fair-minded” than those in Thessalonica. They received the word “with all readiness,” but also “searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11). Although they believed in the Old Testament, they had a healthy scepticism about the subject of Paul’s preaching. Yet when they found it to be supported by Scripture, they became strong believers in Christ.

Not all scepticism is wrong. The Bereans were commended for their readiness to listen and for their diligence to evaluate carefully what Paul said in the light of Scripture. An honest sceptic will give the gospel a fair hearing. He will be willing to consider the evidence for the truthfulness and unique authority of the Bible. He will examine and test the claims of all who say they have a message from God (1 Thess. 5:21). He will recognize that Christians have a rational basis for their faith and that there are sound reasons for their hope (1 Peter 3:15).

Yes, God welcomes honest sceptics. – Herb Vander Lugt

If you doubt but want to know God,

Doubt can help you find His way;

But your doubts will lead to darkness

If His will you disobey. – D. De Haan

Honest questions can lead to faith-building answers.