Acts 2:46

With one accord they continued to meet daily in the temple courts and to break bread from house to house, sharing their meals with gladness and sincerity of heart,

Study Bible

With one accord
The phrase "with one accord" is translated from the Greek word "homothumadon," which conveys a sense of unity and harmony. This word is used several times in the Book of Acts to describe the early church's unified spirit. The early Christians were united in purpose and heart, reflecting the prayer of Jesus in John 17 for His followers to be one. This unity was not merely a superficial agreement but a deep, spiritual oneness that was empowered by the Holy Spirit. It serves as a model for the modern church, emphasizing the importance of unity in advancing the Gospel and building the body of Christ.

They continued to meet
The Greek word "proskartereo" is used here, meaning to persist or to be devoted. This indicates that the early believers were not sporadic in their gatherings but were consistently and steadfastly meeting together. This devotion to fellowship was a hallmark of the early church, demonstrating their commitment to community and mutual edification. It challenges contemporary believers to prioritize regular fellowship and community life as essential components of spiritual growth and health.

In the temple courts
The temple courts were a central place of worship and gathering for the Jewish people in Jerusalem. By meeting in the temple courts, the early Christians were not only continuing their Jewish traditions but also publicly proclaiming their faith in Jesus as the Messiah. This setting provided a natural opportunity for evangelism and teaching, as the temple was a hub of religious activity. It highlights the early church's boldness in witnessing and their strategic use of public spaces for the spread of the Gospel.

And breaking bread
The phrase "breaking bread" can refer to both the sharing of common meals and the observance of the Lord's Supper. In the context of Acts 2:46, it likely encompasses both meanings. The early Christians shared meals as a sign of fellowship and community, reflecting the communal life described in Acts 2:42-47. Additionally, the breaking of bread in the context of the Lord's Supper was a remembrance of Christ's sacrifice and a proclamation of His death until He comes (1 Corinthians 11:26). This practice underscores the centrality of Christ's atoning work in the life of the church.

From house to house
The phrase "from house to house" indicates that the early church met in private homes, which were the primary venues for Christian gatherings before the construction of church buildings. This practice reflects the intimate and personal nature of early Christian fellowship. It also highlights the flexibility and adaptability of the early church in finding ways to gather and worship despite external pressures. The home-based gatherings fostered close relationships and accountability among believers, serving as a model for small group ministry in the contemporary church.

They shared their food
The sharing of food among the early Christians was a tangible expression of their love and care for one another. This practice is rooted in the Greek word "metecho," which means to share or partake. It reflects the communal lifestyle of the early church, where believers held all things in common and ensured that no one was in need (Acts 2:44-45). This generosity and hospitality are marks of a Spirit-filled community and challenge modern believers to live out their faith through acts of kindness and sharing.

With gladness
The word "gladness" is translated from the Greek word "agalliasis," which denotes exultation and joy. The early Christians experienced profound joy in their fellowship and worship, a joy that was rooted in their salvation and the presence of the Holy Spirit. This joy was not dependent on external circumstances but was a fruit of their relationship with Christ. It serves as a reminder that true joy is found in the presence of God and in the community of believers.

And sincerity of heart
The phrase "sincerity of heart" comes from the Greek word "aphelotes," which means simplicity or singleness of heart. This describes the pure and genuine nature of the early Christians' devotion and fellowship. Their interactions were marked by honesty, transparency, and a lack of pretense. This sincerity is a reflection of their transformed hearts and minds, renewed by the Holy Spirit. It calls modern believers to cultivate authenticity and integrity in their relationships within the church community.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Early Church Believers
These were the first followers of Jesus Christ after His resurrection and ascension. They were primarily Jewish converts who had accepted Jesus as the Messiah.

2. The Temple Courts
This refers to the outer courts of the Temple in Jerusalem, a central place of worship and gathering for the Jewish people. It was a public space where the early believers could meet openly.

3. Breaking Bread
This phrase indicates both the sharing of meals and the practice of the Lord's Supper, reflecting fellowship and remembrance of Jesus' sacrifice.

4. House to House
This describes the intimate and personal gatherings of believers in their homes, fostering close-knit community and discipleship.

5. Gladness and Sincerity of Heart
This reflects the joyful and genuine spirit of the early Christians as they lived out their faith in community.

Teaching Points

Unity in Worship
The early church's practice of meeting "with one accord" highlights the importance of unity in worship and purpose among believers today.

Regular Fellowship
The daily gathering in the temple courts and homes underscores the need for regular fellowship and community in the Christian life.

Joyful and Sincere Living
The believers' gladness and sincerity of heart serve as a model for living out our faith with joy and authenticity.

Hospitality and Sharing
The practice of breaking bread from house to house encourages hospitality and sharing as vital aspects of Christian community.

Public and Private Worship
Balancing public worship in larger gatherings with intimate fellowship in homes reflects a holistic approach to spiritual growth and community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the unity of the early church in Acts 2:46 challenge our current church practices and attitudes towards fellowship?

2. In what ways can we incorporate the practice of "breaking bread" into our modern Christian communities to foster deeper relationships?

3. How does the example of the early believers meeting daily inspire us to prioritize regular fellowship and worship in our lives?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate "gladness and sincerity of heart" in our interactions with fellow believers and the wider community?

5. How can we balance the need for public worship and private, intimate gatherings in our spiritual lives, as modeled by the early church?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 4:32-35
This passage describes the unity and sharing among the believers, emphasizing their communal life and care for one another, similar to Acts 2:46.

Hebrews 10:24-25
Encourages believers to meet together and spur one another on toward love and good deeds, echoing the communal and supportive nature of the early church.

Luke 24:30-35
Jesus breaks bread with the disciples after His resurrection, which parallels the breaking of bread in Acts 2:46, symbolizing fellowship and recognition of Christ.