1. Am I Open Minded?

2. A mind that refuses to even consider that he might be wrong
The Closed Minded
A mind that refuses to even consider that he might be wrong
Or, when presented with contrary facts, refuses to change

3. Don’t want to face consequences of change Fearful of instability
The Closed Minded
Why closed minds?
Don’t want to face consequences of change
Fearful of instability
They don’t care to investigate
Satisfied where one is at

4. The Jews that rejected Jesus
The Closed Minded
The Jews that rejected Jesus
Matthew 13:11-15
John 12:37-43, even among believers they some did not change
John 11:47-50, 53, leaders plot to kill Jesus rather than consider
The trial of Jesus

5. The Jews that rejected Stephen
The Closed Minded
The Jews that rejected Stephen
Acts 6:8-15, Stephen’s powerful preaching
Acts 7:51-53, his indictment of their ways
Acts 7:54-60, their reaction

6. The Jews that rejected Paul
The Closed Minded
The Jews that rejected Paul
Acts 17:1-5, as soon as Gentiles were taught, they envied
A recurring theme throughout Paul’s preaching and teaching

7. Acts 19, records Paul in Ephesus. Stayed 2-3 years. Much success
The Closed Minded
Demetrius at Ephesus
Acts 19, records Paul in Ephesus. Stayed 2-3 years. Much success
Acts 19:23-33, Demetrius, a seller of idols, stirred up his tradesmen and the city against Paul

8. A closed mind to the need for sacrifice and surrender
The Closed Minded
The rich, young ruler
Matthew 19:16-26, when told what he needed to do, he went away sorrowful
A closed mind to the need for sacrifice and surrender

9. Open Minded
A mind that is willing to listen and consider what is said, even if it means changing when convinced he is right.
NOT one who takes change lightly, but willing to obey – Matthew 7:21, 26-27, Hebrews 5:9, 1 John 2:4

10. Open Minded
On Pentecost
Acts 2:41, some 3000 responded to the invitation (Jews who would be called upon to make great changes)

11. Open Minded
The Eunuch
Acts 8:26ff, when taught about Jesus, he was willing to change. Desired to be baptized (vs )

12. Cornelius and his household
Open Minded
Cornelius and his household
Acts 10:1-4, a devout man. Told to send for Peter
When Peter arrived, he was ready to listen and respond (vs. 33)

13. NOTE: Not a blind acceptance, but educated.
Open Minded
The Bereans
Acts 17:11, more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica. They searched the scriptures to verify the truth.
NOTE: Not a blind acceptance, but educated.

14. Am I Open Minded
What is my attitude when I study the Bible?
Do I intend to obey?
Am I willing to study with others that disagree with me?
Am I more concerned about being right with God, or accepted by men?

15. Are there subjects I avoid because of the consequences?
Am I Open Minded
If someone showed me I was practicing error, would I be willing to change?
Are there subjects I avoid because of the consequences?

16. Do I have the heart of David Psalm 139:23-24
Am I Open Minded
Do I have the heart of David Psalm 139:23-24
Do I trust God more than men? Proverbs 3:5-6

17. Are You Open Minded?