Some are ever learning and never able to come to a knowledge of the truth (II Tim. 3:7). Others are more noble (Acts 17:11). Consider circumstances productive of learning.

The Sermon. “But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them...” (Acts 2:14). Through this sermon about three thousand “...were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?...Then they that gladly received his word were baptized...And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved” (Acts 2:37-47).

Through the years many alien sinners have heard the “...unsearchable riches of Christ...” (Eph. 3:8) preached simply, persuasively and have been baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38) the same hour (Acts 16:33) and erring children of God have been brought to repentance (I John 1:7-10; Acts 8:22-24).

Bible Classes or group study. “And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter” (Acts 15:6). This was a group consideration of the subject of circumcision as it related to Gentile converts. Group study presents an excellent opportunity for learning. When students are given study sheets, or workbooks, to study at home and then given the opportunity to test their homework in class by answering questions and discussion.

Daily Study. “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” (Acts 17:11). Christians who have advanced from the milk of the word to the meat (Heb. 5:12-14) are those who have “burned the midnight oil.” They have surrounded themselves with good study helps. Their heart has absolute faith in the accuracy, power, and authority of the Divine Record. Hours spent in meditation on the inspired word prepare maturing Christians to (1) live the abundant life in Christ Jesus, (2) impart saving knowledge to others, and (3) resist the devil in temptation and in doctrinal error.

Controversy. “And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, and said, Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved. When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas...should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about his question....Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas...and they wrote letters....Which when they had read, they rejoiced for the consolation” (Acts 15:1-31). Controversy promotes study among those who love the truth.