In Thessalonica: Straightforward gospel presentation by Paul Some believed but most of those who claimed to be looking for the Messiah rejected Paul's message. Why did the Jews in Thessalonica hate the gospel so much? v5 tells us - envy when they saw non-Jews coming to Christ without following the same traditions. Our problem: Is it that we CAN'T believe? Not always. Often, we REFUSE to believe. We DO NOT WANT TO believe. In Berea: the Jews were more fair-minded (=noble-minded). They: 1. Searched the Scriptures Daily to see if Paul and Silas's preaching was true 2. Were granted the ability to believe, v12 Seek the Lord while he may be found.