These [Bereans] were more noble . . . in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. ~ Act 17:11 (ESV)
Like the believers in Acts 17:11, who “searched the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so,” we, too, are encouraged to test what we’ve been taught by the light of God’s Word. The “Like a Berean” Study Method™ presents three principles that serve as lenses through which we view and interpret Scripture—not a formula or rigid process, but a way of discerning truth that reflects God’s nature, His consistency, and His revealed plan.
Logic |
Truth is non-contradictory and the very nature of God Himself; He is logical, rational, and true. Because God is a God of order and not confusion (1 Cor. 14:33), and because He is Truth (Num. 23:19; Jn. 14:6), the truth He reveals will never violate the basic laws of logic or reason. What is true in one passage cannot contradict what is true in another, for His Word is consistent and reliable (Ps. 119:160). |
Character |
Truth must align with who God is. The Author of Scripture cannot reveal anything inconsistent with His own nature. Every interpretation must align with the revealed character of God—His love, justice, mercy, holiness, and faithfulness (Deut. 32:4; Nah. 1:3; Mal. 3:6; 1 Jn. 4:8). |
Harmony |
Truth flows from the whole counsel of God; His message is one and unchanging. Scripture interprets Scripture. The same Spirit who inspired Genesis inspired all of Scripture, and He does not change His message (Isa. 46:9–10; 2 Tim. 3:16; 2 Pet. 1:21). Each verse fits within the unified, unfolding record of Scripture that progressively unveils God’s eternal Kingdom plan (Eph. 1:10; 1 Cor. 15:28). |
What Makes This Study Method Unique
FPO—About/how different from other study methods that generally are segmented and very self-centric/what’s the application for me today, rather than bigger-picture. How it encourages thinking a new way rather than performing to-do types of tasks.
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Logic Lens
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Character Lens
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Harmony Lens
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