The Berean and the Goldfish

Introduction
This is a collection of ideas for the people who seek to know and enjoy more of God’s Word. As referenced in the Book of Acts Chapter 17, Verse 11: “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.” This enormous compliment and honor is paid to the Bereans – and I use this reference to associate with all those people who place the Word of God above tradition, above rumor, above fiction, above social acceptance, above entertainment, above religious propaganda, above political correctness, and above cultural differences.
This work analyzes and expands our understanding of key doctrines – using Scripture extensively. It expands our understanding of and our need for the Gospel. I believe this work accurately represents the need for the Gospel, and that it presents the Gospel in simple terms, from several different perspectives, so the reader cannot misunderstand. Hopefully, even a good Christian of many years will enjoy and learn something from this presentation.
I address key doctrines such as the Trinity, the soul, death, faith versus works, and sleep. I teach untaught details about the Lamb of God and the Seven Letters, National Heritage, and National Sins & Consequence. I distinguish between this life and the one hereafter, the names of God, the Laws of God, and I confront popular errors in teaching on topics such as Sunday, Christmas, Easter and God’s Chosen People.
Then we go on to ‘straighten out’ several issues that are often misunderstood, or misrepresented, or not represented at all. Often, we find the same error of the Pharisees which Jesus condemned – the traditions of the elders. By this I mean to suggest that a great deal of teaching in the church is incomplete and sometimes in error. We really need to get these things right – and I show why and how with many included Scripture references.
None of this is based on any denominational doctrine. There is not a common theme to this work, but several. I am revealing several topics that I had to discover on my own through analytical biblical studies that began 30 years ago. This work should be an interesting and unique Bible study for individuals who want more, who dig deeper – seekers.
There is a certain boldness required to try and present points of controversy. Tact is nice, but accuracy is essential. I believe this work lifts up Jesus and unifies the Old and New Testaments into an agreement which we often miss. The whole idea of The Berean and the Goldfish points to digging deeper and learning things that are not commonly taught on the surface. Anyone with questions about common errors, confusion, or just interested in getting closer to God’s infinite Word will find this appealing.
And we read in 2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth.
Applying the Berean principle of seeking truth by digging into Scripture will help us in our daily walk with God. The Bible tells us to test the spirits – l John 4:1. There will be many teachers who are right, some who just think they are right and some who are outright wrong by reason of ignorance, and some who are actually trying to mislead you. Beware . . . and prepare.
There are many of us who place the highest priority on the everlasting Word of God that never changes and is “the same yesterday, today and forever.” – Hebrews 13:8. Also see Matthew 5:18, 24:35, Mark 13:31, Luke 16:17, 21:33.
John 1:1, 14 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God . . . . and the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, . . .
Malachi 3:6 For I am the LORD, I change not . . .
This work is filled with many Scriptural references on several topics which can lead to looking up verses, researching cross references and commentaries, and prayer. I know you already have all of these references in your own Bibles, but hopefully these are arranged and organized in a very useful order to better facilitate inspired discovery. In many ways this may serve as an individual Bible Study. If you have the enthusiasm and spirit of a Berean, you are likely to enjoy this opportunity for additional study. On the other hand, some of you will be satisfied with this work as it is. In either case, if I am helpful to any, my mission is accomplished.
I affirm that those of us who study the Word of God, and believe it is from Him, discover continually and increasingly that we know less and less. I believe it was Will Durant who defined EDUCATION as “a progressive discovery of our ignorance.” Another wise man observed that when we study God’s Word, we are altogether incapable of critiquing the Word, but the Word will always critique us – producing change in our lives.
The Word of God is arranged in an amazing way that stimulates additional research. For example, if we learn a certain teaching from Jesus, it’s a good thing. But if we dig a little deeper we find there is more detail in the Word on the same issue. Then we find there is even more . . . and more. This additional knowledge can clarify, expand or even alter our understanding. Eventually we learn to ask, “What else did He say?” As we learn this principle we develop an appetite and thirst for more. This principle applies to everything uttered by God and by his Apostles and Prophets. When we hear a certain doctrine proclaimed from the Word, especially if it’s an important one – like ‘you can never lose your salvation’ – we should ask, “What else does it say?” I can tell you with certainty it says much more . . . especially when we begin to listen with our spiritual ears.
Proverbs 30:5-6 Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.