The name “Eugene” literally means “good genes”. It was used by Greek speaking people of the first century to identify individuals who were born into their society’s upper social classes. A person born into royalty or nobility was called “eugene”.
Because of the humility and intense sense of desperate spiritual need the gospel requires (Matthew 5:3-6), the apostle Paul noted that not many of the Corinthian Christians were from the noble and elite strata of society (1 Corinthians 1:26).
In the ancient city of Berea the tireless Paul and his co-laborer Silas met some people who were of an elite spiritual class. The Scriptures identify them as “noble” or Eugene.
Of them it is written: “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word of God with all readiness of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily, whether those things were so. Therefore, many of them believed; also of honorable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few” (Acts 17:11-12).
In this inspired description are five essential characteristics of spiritual nobility. They are most helpful in determining an accurate answer to the question: “Are you Eugene?”
People who are spiritually noble receive the word of God as it presents itself. Unlike many who pay lip service to the Scriptures, a Eugene wholeheartedly believes the Bible’s claim to be inspired of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17); therefore, Scripture is viewed as authoritative in its answer to every spiritual question; all-sufficient in its doctrine and instruction in righteousness; and perfect in its power to generate and nourish spiritual life in Christ.
So, when it comes to trusting the power, authority and perfection of God’s word in all matters pertaining to life and godliness: Are you Eugene?
A second trait of spiritual nobility is readiness of mind to receive God’s word. Hungering and thirsting for righteousness–having an intense, enduring spiritual zeal–is not optional. Readiness of mind is demonstrated in “an edge of your seat” eagerness to learn the word of truth. It necessitates being swift to hear God’s word, slow to argue with it, and slow to take offense when its declarations contradict your beliefs and its holiness exposes sin in your heart and life.
So, when it comes to wanting to learn and do God’s will in your life: Are you Eugene?
To be spiritually noble, there must be a strenuous and thorough examination of God’s word. The Bereans “searched the Scriptures” for themselves. God has communicated His will in the simplest of words because each person has an individual responsibility to understand what the will of the Lord is (Ephesians 5:17).
The pursuit of truth necessitates a strenuous and thorough diligence. It is best described as a “leave no stone unturned” pursuit. Since all of God’s word is profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16), all of God’s word ought to be vigorously, honestly, and carefully investigated.
So, when it comes to the pursuit of truth via a strenuous and thorough examination of the Scriptures: Are you Eugene?
“Daily” indicates a persistent spiritual desire. The body functions best when its recurring needs of hunger, thirst, and rest are met on a daily basis. In like manner the spirit within one’s body functions best when its daily needs for nourishment and fellowship with God are met through Bible study and prayer. Occasional interest in spiritual matters is not a trait of spiritual nobility; a strong, persistent, daily desire is.
So, when it comes to a continuous spiritual desire for truth: Are you Eugene?
A final characteristic of spiritual nobility is a healthy, godly skepticism. There is nothing virtuous in being gullible and believing one of Satan’s lies. A child-like faith in truth necessitates a continuous “Show me” approach. Biblical faith is attained when everything you believe is based upon a “Thus saith the Lord” (Romans 10:17).
Believing doctrines and commandments which come from humans instead of heaven transgresses God’s commands (Matthew 15:3), nullifies the Scriptures’ genuine authority (Matthew 15:6), and results in vain worship (Matthew 15:9). Spiritual blindness comes to those who fail to have an “it is written” approach to their faith (Matthew 15:14).
So, when it comes to a healthy, godly skepticism which only settles for a “book, chapter, and verse” proof of truth: Are you Eugene?
According to Acts 17:12, spiritual nobility is possible for everyone (male or female), regardless of religious background and social status. Anyone can be among the spiritually elite.
So, are you Eugene?