Acts 2:46 provides a snapshot of the early Christian community in Jerusalem and describes their daily life and devotion. Let's break down the meaning of each phrase:
"Day by day, continuing steadfastly...": This emphasizes the consistency and persistence of their practices. It wasn't a fleeting enthusiasm but a dedicated commitment to their newfound faith and community.
"...with one accord in the temple...": "With one accord" means they were united in purpose and spirit. They were of the same mind, in harmony, and shared a deep sense of fellowship. The fact that they were in the temple is significant. It tells us that even though they were believers in Jesus, they were still participating in Jewish worship practices. This suggests that, initially, they saw their faith in Jesus as a fulfillment of Judaism, not a separate religion.
"...and breaking bread at home...": "Breaking bread" is a common term referring to the shared meal, but in this context, it likely also refers to the Lord's Supper or Communion, a sacred ritual commemorating Jesus's sacrifice. The phrase "at home" (literally, "from house to house") suggests they were gathering in smaller groups in their residences. This created a more intimate and personal environment for worship and fellowship.
"...they took their food with gladness and singleness of heart...": "Gladness" indicates the joy and contentment they experienced in their new life with Christ and in community with each other. "Singleness of heart" means they were sincere, genuine, and undivided in their devotion—they had no ulterior motives or hidden agendas. Their hearts were pure and focused on God and each other.
In summary, Acts 2:46 depicts a community of early Christians characterized by:
Consistency and Dedication: They were committed to their faith daily.
Unity and Fellowship: They were united in purpose and spirit, worshipping together.
Celebration of the Lord's Supper: They remembered Jesus through the breaking of bread.
Joy and Sincerity: They lived with a genuine joy and pure devotion to God and one another.
This verse paints a picture of a vibrant, loving, and authentic community centered around their shared faith in Jesus and their commitment to living out His teachings. They found joy and fulfillment in their fellowship and worship. It's often seen as an ideal to which Christian communities should aspire.
Acts 2:46 provides a snapshot of the early Christian community in Jerusalem and describes their daily life and devotion. Let's break down the meaning of each phrase:
"Day by day, continuing steadfastly...": This emphasizes the consistency and persistence of their practices. It wasn't a fleeting enthusiasm but a dedicated commitment to their newfound faith and community.
"...with one accord in the temple...": "With one accord" means they were united in purpose and spirit. They were of the same mind, in harmony, and shared a deep sense of fellowship. The fact that they were in the temple is significant. It tells us that even though they were believers in Jesus, they were still participating in Jewish worship practices. This suggests that, initially, they saw their faith in Jesus as a fulfillment of Judaism, not a separate religion.
"...and breaking bread at home...": "Breaking bread" is a common term referring to the shared meal, but in this context, it likely also refers to the Lord's Supper or Communion, a sacred ritual commemorating Jesus's sacrifice. The phrase "at home" (literally, "from house to house") suggests they were gathering in smaller groups in their residences. This created a more intimate and personal environment for worship and fellowship.
"...they took their food with gladness and singleness of heart...": "Gladness" indicates the joy and contentment they experienced in their new life with Christ and in community with each other. "Singleness of heart" means they were sincere, genuine, and undivided in their devotion—they had no ulterior motives or hidden agendas. Their hearts were pure and focused on God and each other.
In summary, Acts 2:46 depicts a community of early Christians characterized by:
Consistency and Dedication: They were committed to their faith daily.
Unity and Fellowship: They were united in purpose and spirit, worshipping together.
Celebration of the Lord's Supper: They remembered Jesus through the breaking of bread.
Joy and Sincerity: They lived with a genuine joy and pure devotion to God and one another.
This verse paints a picture of a vibrant, loving, and authentic community centered around their shared faith in Jesus and their commitment to living out His teachings. They found joy and fulfillment in their fellowship and worship. It's often seen as an ideal to which Christian communities should aspire.