Acts 2:47

praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

Study Bible

praising God
The phrase "praising God" reflects the early church's continuous act of worship and gratitude towards God. The Greek word used here is "αἰνέω" (aineō), which means to praise or extol. This act of praising is not just a ritual but a heartfelt expression of reverence and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and goodness. Historically, this reflects the Jewish tradition of worship, which was deeply embedded in the life of the early believers. Their praise was a testimony to their faith and a witness to those around them.

enjoying the favor
The Greek word for "favor" is "χάρις" (charis), which can also mean grace or goodwill. The early Christians were living in such a way that they found favor with the people around them. This favor was not merely human approval but was seen as a reflection of God's grace working through them. It suggests a community that was living out the teachings of Christ in a way that was attractive and compelling to others, embodying love, generosity, and unity.

of all the people
This phrase indicates the widespread impact the early church had on the surrounding community. "All the people" suggests that their influence was not limited to a small group but extended to the broader society. This widespread favor can be seen as a fulfillment of Jesus' teaching to be the light of the world (Matthew 5:14-16), where the believers' actions and lifestyle were a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel.

And the Lord added
The phrase "the Lord added" emphasizes that the growth of the church was not due to human effort alone but was a divine act. The Greek word "προστιθέναι" (prostithenai) means to add or to increase. This highlights the sovereignty of God in the expansion of His church, reminding believers that while they are called to be faithful witnesses, it is ultimately God who brings about spiritual growth and transformation.

to their number daily
The early church experienced daily growth, which underscores the dynamic and vibrant nature of their community. The phrase "to their number" refers to the increasing fellowship of believers. This daily addition signifies a continuous movement of the Holy Spirit, drawing people to faith and integrating them into the body of Christ. It reflects the fulfillment of Jesus' promise that the Gospel would bear fruit and multiply.

those who were being saved
The term "being saved" is derived from the Greek word "σῳζόμενοι" (sōzomenoi), which means to be saved or delivered. This ongoing process of salvation indicates that people were continually coming to faith in Christ and experiencing His redemptive work. It highlights the transformative power of the Gospel, which not only saves individuals from sin but also incorporates them into a new community of believers. This phrase serves as a reminder of the mission of the church to proclaim the message of salvation to all people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Early Church
This refers to the community of believers in Jerusalem shortly after the resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ. They were characterized by their devotion to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer.

2. The Apostles
The primary leaders of the early church, who were eyewitnesses to Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. They played a crucial role in teaching and guiding the new believers.

3. Jerusalem
The city where these events took place, significant as the center of Jewish worship and the location of the Temple.

4. The Lord
Refers to Jesus Christ, who is actively involved in the growth of the church by adding to their number those who are being saved.

5. The People
The broader community in Jerusalem, including both Jews and Gentiles, who observed the lives of the early Christians and were impacted by their witness.

Teaching Points

The Power of Praise
The early church was characterized by praising God. Our lives should also be marked by continual praise, which can be a powerful witness to those around us.

Community Favor
The early believers enjoyed the favor of all the people. Living out our faith authentically and lovingly can lead to positive relationships with those in our communities.

Divine Growth
It is the Lord who adds to the church. While we are called to be faithful in sharing the gospel, we must trust God for the increase.

Daily Salvation
The early church experienced daily growth. We should pray and work towards seeing people come to faith regularly, trusting in God's timing and provision.

Witness Through Unity
The unity and love within the church were attractive to outsiders. We should strive for unity in our churches, as it serves as a powerful testimony to the world.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the example of the early church in Acts 2:47 challenge our current church practices in terms of community and outreach?

2. In what ways can we incorporate more praise into our daily lives, and how might this impact those around us?

3. How can we actively seek to enjoy the favor of all people while remaining faithful to the gospel message?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to foster unity within our church community, and how might this serve as a witness to non-believers?

5. Reflect on a time when you have seen God add to the church. How can this encourage you in your personal evangelism efforts?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 28:19-20
The Great Commission, where Jesus commands His disciples to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey His commands. This connects to Acts 2:47 as the early church fulfills this commission through their witness and daily growth.

John 13:34-35
Jesus' command to love one another, which serves as a testimony to the world. The early church's love and unity were evident to all people, drawing others to Christ.

1 Corinthians 3:6-7
Paul speaks about planting and watering, but God gives the growth. This emphasizes that the Lord is the one who adds to the church, as seen in Acts 2:47.