And thus joining together, because it was apart from those that believed not, and because it was in the same profession and practice of the duties of religion, they are said to be together, epi to auto. This snapshot shows 43 Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe; and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles. While Paul was the author of 2 Thessalonians and in this book was written to strengthen the Thessalonians in the face of unremitting persecution, to reassure those frightened by the thought that the day of the Lord had come, and to handle the issue of some of the church members not earning their living. Of course, they were also teaching from the Holy Spirits guidance (John 14:26). Luke even differentiates between worshiping in the temple and breaking bread and eating house to house. Note, Those that God has designed for eternal salvation shall one time or other be effectually brought to Christ: and those that are brought to Christ are added to the church in a holy covenant by baptism, and in holy communion by other ordinances. If someone doesnt obey this Epistle, the other believers shouldnt keep company with him so that he may be ashamed. Some or other were daily coming in, though not so many as the first day; and they were such as should be saved. It seems like pulling Christians out of society to form an enclosed group is counter-productive to the spreading of the message. WebThe Believers Form a Community. Paul used it to speak of the fellowship that Christians enjoy with Christ: God is faithful, through whom you were called into the koinonia (fellowship) of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord (1 Corinthians 1:9). This eagerness is at least partly due to a tendency to view the early church through our own modern perspective. Indeed, the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved. Acts 2:44-47 NKJV, But we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and not according to the tradition which he received from us. They sell property to provide for their fellow believers. This emphasis was primarily for new believers who may not have heard Jesuss teachings first hand, allowing the apostles to teach and speak on events they witnessed and heard. They abounded in thanksgiving; were continually praising God, Acts 2:47. This is not to say that they are either commanded or wrong, but rather that the important aspects seem to have a more resonating tone with believers (Last supper, fellowship, etc) and the lesser traditions (holy kisses, communal living and even baptism) become secondary to the overall cause of the Church (local and universal): Do you think that this initial wave of thousands immediately stopped sacrificing in the Temple? Verse 43 describes the miracles done in the community. They had all things common; perhaps they had common tables (as the Spartans of old), for familiarity, temperance and freedom of conversation; they ate together, that those who had much might have the less, and so be kept from the temptations of abundance; and they who had little might have the more, and so be kept from the temptations of want and poverty. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. QUESTION? I still recognize that I am fully capable of purchasing non-necessities, or more or less conveniences that our society has deemed as necessities (such as cars). They sell property to provide for their fellow They had spent three years with Jesus, learning from Him, learning His teachings (largely through making mistakes), and ministering as He instructed them. Is the life of this community to be taken as a model for Christian life today? Yet, it was so they would not be a burden to those around them just as Paul had done so with them. On the day of Pentecost (the Feast of Weeks), the Holy Spirit arrives with the sound of rushing wind. In the story of Ananias and Sapphira (5:1-11), Peter chastised them for keeping back part of the proceeds from the sale of their property. Paul tells them to follow his example he did not depend on others to provide for him while not contributing to the community himself. Web41 So those who accepted his message were baptized, and that day about three thousand people were added. At the very least this includes alms and care for the poor. For St. Pauls epistles, after this, often speak of the distinction of rich and poor, and Christ hath said that the poor we always have with us, and shall have, and the rich must be always doing them good out of the rents, issues, and profits, of their estates, which they disable themselves to do, if they sell them, and give all away at once. Throughout the book of Acts we slowly see the presence of miracles dwindle, and this is supported by Paul who says in 1 Corinthians 13:8-19 that they [prophesies] will cease, they [tongues] will be stilled. I really do see the community in Acts 2 to be a Jewish Reform Movement at this point in the history. If we are to emphasis one should we not the others as well? Whether or not these others things are included, arent important. THEY CONTINUED STEADFASTLY. These Jews are from all over the Roman Empire and speak different languages, so the Holy Spirit communicates through Jesuss disciples in their native tongues, preaching the greatness of God. For example, in 1-2 Thessalonians, Paul urges believers and members of the church not to leave their jobs and become uninvolved in daily life. In this particular case many of them had left their jobs and old lifestyles to follow Jesus. At church potlucks nowadays, a person brings a dish to pass and so do other people, so in the end you have a whole meal to eat instead of only one side to eat for that meal. The importance of the picture here might be mitigated by the fact that God is the initiator of the miracles contrary to many of the major translations, including the NRSV, the Greek text says not that they were done by the apostles but that they were done through (Gk dia) them. Luke uses it whenever people are encountering Gods direct, miraculous work. None of this was done from obligation; rather, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart. Acts is written by Luke to share acts of the Holy Spirit and empower believers to bear witness of the good news of Jesus and establish the Church. Acts 2:42 and 46 have found its way onto wall hangings and the like. This is an older post. Note, Those who have given up their names to Christ must make conscience of hearing his word; for thereby we give honour to him, and build up ourselves in our most holy faith. These wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles, worked by God through the Holy Spirit within them. Acts 2 Commentary Acts 2:43 references the acts of miracles. All who believed were together (epi to autoat the same place), and had all things in common (v. 44). Everyone continues to feel the fear of God in them as the apostles perform wonders and signs. Acts 2 I believe that at the core, classical dispensationalism is based on one simple fundamental (wrong) idea- that Paul was completely right in everything he wrote (and said and did), and everyone else was wrong, including Jesus ( at least for us for today as Gentiles). This goes to show that the expectations of the early Jewish believers did not come to fruition and, later, members of the church were instructed to live life normally right after they were reassured that the day of the Lord has not come yet (2 Thes. I will come back to this later, but notice for now that the community sold property, pooled resources, and distributed these funds to the poor. the Lords Supper. Teaching, fellowship, eating together, and prayer have been common Christian practices for ages. 2 Thess 3:11-12 specifically tells people to go out and get jobs so that they are not a burden. 42 They devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. We began on Easter in Acts 10, where we saw the world-changing significance of Christs Resurrection in Peters startling realization that God includes people from every nation in his covenantal embrace. In regards to your significant emotional high and nothing was established, if I am not mistaken the twelve still acted like Jews and kept the law. For that matter if somebody did demonstrate that they could perform miracles to me I would almost certainly assume that person was one of the false prophets that Jesus described in Matthew 24:24 who work great signs and wonders. The question Ive asked myself is, Why? I dont have an answer, other than perhaps the need for that particular function of body ministry wasnt present. The believers devoted themselves also to the breaking of bread. Verse 7 specifically addresses physical laziness. Web42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 3:7). They feared God, but they glorified Him also, and recognized that He was visiting His people. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders COmmunion is almost a joke sometimes because all it is is a scripture reading and we eat bread or crackers and drink grape juice. The difference, then, between Acts 2 and 2 Thessalonians 3, is that the Believers in Acts formed what a Christian community should look like. The context of verse 46 is eating a common meal in homes. I have yet to see Acts 2:45 prominently displayed on a fireplace mantel in someones living room. These points suggest that where God is especially at work and where Gods presence is especially experienced, such giving and sharing is the natural Christian response. III. They continued steadfastly ( proskarterountes) (v. 42a). THE KINGLY RULE OF GOD IS REVEALED AS PRESENT IN THE LIFE OF THE NEW CONGREGATION OF ISRAEL (2:42-47). And if anyone does not obey our word in this epistle, note that person and do not keep company with him, that he may be ashamed. In 2 Thessalonians 3, we see Paul urging the community of believers to get jobs and earn their own living so that they do not become a burden to other believers, and so that they can help those who are in need. The principle remains the same, those in the community should not be idle but contribute to it. They did eat their meat with singleness of heart, en apheloteti kardiaswith liberality of heart; so some: they did not eat their morsels alone, but bade the poor welcome to their table, not grudgingly, but with all the hearty freedom imaginable. And yet, we are told that Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe. Third, they devoted themselves to breaking of bread. While this phrase can be used of sharing a meal together, it is likely that Luke is describing the community as celebrating some form of communion. Acts 2:42-47 offers us a glimpse of heaven here on earth. However, modern communism is a top-down system that forces people into communal situations, regardless of their preferences. But God gave the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6). I wanted to understand the mindset and thought process that would allow a Bible Scholar who believes passionately in The Total Inerrancy of every word in the 66 Books of the Bible to be dismissive of the Sermon on the Mount and say It doesnt apply to me today.. Communal living is another descriptor of that specific community, and living in common only appears here in Acts 2 (Long, 2011, para. Many were looking for the Messiah to show up to make the world right and few others (more militant resisters of the Roman Empire) actually claimed to be messiahs themselves. Another reason I believe is stopping this from happening is because its easier for someone to say they are a follower when they just read the bible. The disciples of Jesus devote themselves to learning from the apostles and taking care of one another. It made them very pleasant, and enlarged their hearts with holy joy; they did eat their bread with joy, and drank their wine with a merry heart, as knowing that God now accepted their works. Acts 2 is not commanding communal living, but rather radical love for our brothers & sisters in Christ rather than in possessions. Commentary on Acts 2:42-47 - Working Preacher from Luther The book of Acts is surrounded by questions of how the modern church and believer should incorporate the actions of the early church into our practices, or if it is even important too at all. Two completely different audiences, in different stages of life. Yes, small church groups can be very good for spiritual growth and development. The common people stood in awe of them, as Herod feared John. Same with the breaking of bread and prayer. 46Day by day, continuing steadfastly with one accord (Greek: homothumadonwith one mind) in the temple, and breaking bread at home, they took their food with gladness and singleness (Greek: aphelotetisimplewithout pretense) of heart, 47a praising God, and having favor with all the people. 3:6). Though it may not be necessary to apply, it seems the church already has in some ways. It does seem like Christians are quick to apply the manners in Acts 2:42 rather than Acts 2:43 because of the time we are in now. A human cant but feel fear when seeing Gods divine action. However, the Church in Thessalonica is given a warning from Paul against idleness (2 Thess. That emphasis continues in the New Testament, but with the focus on the salvation effected by Jesus Christ and those whom he sent to carry out his mission (Acts 2:19-22; 14:3; 15:12; Romans 15:19; 2 Corinthians 12:12; Hebrews 2:4). He left behind many enemies who would soon see that their goal of snuffing out His gospel did not end when they put Him to death. Too many people read into this text this way, but rather it is so much more and deeper than that. I think a big reason Christians are quick to apply Acts 2:42 and not Acts 2:43 is because we do not put as much of an emphasis on miracles today. During this time period, it is interesting to note that they had favor with all the people. The verbs for selland distribute are iterative imperfects. I understand what you say. Acts 2:42-47 The Early Community of Believers Clint Arnold points out in his Acts commentary that they community in Acts Two was characterized by four types of activities. Now that the Holy Spirit is guiding them, their lives are changed. Contrasting the reality of Acts 2, the apostle Paul tells the Thessalonians that they should earn their living even as he did when he was doing ministry among them (2 Thes. Read full chapter. Some read it, They had charity to all the peoplecharin echontes pros holon ton laon; they did not confine their charity to those of their own community, but it was catholic and extensive; and this recommended them very much. I personally tend to believe that the latter is true. The Thessalonian Believers were still following the apostles teachings, which included Jesus lessons on Earth as well as the words he delivered to them [the apostles] during his resurrection appearances (Polhill, 2008, p. 2266). In 1-2 Thessalonians Paul seems to instruct the members of the church to not retire from daily life and be constantly devoted to ministry. In those times their possessions were their jobs, but when I think of being a fisherman or tent maker it still is an income you receive, you just dont have what you purchased with the income prior to giving it all away to those in need. Read full chapter. Jesus Himself had opened their minds to understand the Old Testament scriptures (Luke 24:44-45). 2). As I am learning in my Intertestamental Literature class, much of the popular writings at that time contained a undeniable amount of end of the world type language and expectation. The disciples of Jesus devote themselves to learning from the apostles and taking care of one another. Summaries provide snapshots; they are not designed to tell the whole story. .4) Prayer, yes. I believe that the culture we currently live in makes it seem weird or uncomfortable to go out of ones way and give money to the needy or serve our neighbors by inviting them into our homes for a nice meal. Context is also crucial to understanding 2 Thessalonians 3 and the instructions that are seemingly contrary to this pattern in Acts. Most large churches looks for ways to integrate people into smaller groups for prayer, Bible study and fellowship, even mutual exhortation and support. A miracle can be getting help financially, gaining a friendship that pushes you towards the cross, receiving good health, waking up in the morning. 6). Nicholl explains that the people in the community who were not contributing to the commonwealth of Believers were idlers who used their free time to meddle and/or gossip with others (2008, p. 2542). In the Book of Acts, Luke records two occasions where disciples broke bread. In fact, Acts 2:46 indicates that the disciples met in both private homes and in the Temple. For Acts 2:44-25 I think it is the aspect of living so close to individuals, in this society today we cant even get along over the internet let alone 10 feet from each other. This could have been a necessity because of persecution falling upon some who had believed. This indicates that these elements are not vertical truths (meant for a specific group at a specific time) but rather could be considered horizontal truths (truths which are applicable and beneficial in our present age). The account follows directly on the story of Pentecost, where the Holy Spirit had been experienced powerfully not only by the gathered remaining followers of Jesus, but also by many others in Jerusalem in the neighborhood of their gathering (2:1-13). 42 They devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Now we read, the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved (2:47). Fellowship has turned into casual juice and cookies after a Sunday sermon. 42 They were devoting themselves to the apostles teaching and to For we hear that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies. They were experiencing human relationship as God had intended it to be, one of harmonious living where everyone seeks the best for one another, where there is no exploitation or taking advantage. WebThe Fellowship of the Believers. Yet do not count him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother. Everyone continues to feel the fear of God in them as the apostles perform wonders and signs. I agree with your 4 points, with some further elaboration. 2. Observe, (1.) It would not be unusual for Jewish men to go to the Temple several times a day to pray, so the community continues to worship at the Temple regularly. WebActs 2:1-8. In many churches today, there is a great concern for growth. And the biggest differences between the two pieces of scripture would be that in Acts 2 they are teaching how to follow Gods word and in 2 Thessalonians 3 they are teaching what to do when you see others not living out these rules. His dissertation was published as Jesus the Bridegroom by Pickwick Books in 2012. Or are we to greet on another with love, and a holy kiss was equivalent to our modern handshake? Acts 2:42-47. The others, while speaking of ordinary meals, use language that clearly evokes the Lords Supper (language such as bless, broke, gave). 2 Thessalonians 3:12 says Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living (ESV). While these practices are positive and beneficial to the helping of the poor and extending the kingdom of God, this lifestyle is not enforced as the standard for each community of believers. 42 They were devoting themselves to the apostles teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Tongues of fire appear over the heads of the disciples, and they begin to speak in foreign languages by the power of the Holy Spirit. As a result, the early church responded to these signs with awe, and they were a regular occurrence during that time (Polhill, 2008, p. 2085). It is an interesting point to consider why the church today is quick to apply the directions of Acts 2:42, but why other elements discussed in this passagespecifically miracles mentioned in verse 43 or communal living mentioned in verses 44-45are not considered to be applicable or more simply for believers today (Long). In the Book of Acts, Luke frequently mentions teaching (2:42; 4:2; 5:21, 25, 28, 42; 13:12; 17:19; 18:11; 20:20; 28:31), but doesnt divulge the content of that teaching. First, they devoted themselves to the teaching of the apostles (). See how these Christians love one another. Paul preaches, For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we were not idle when we were with you (2 Thess. Dont be a burden to others. Most of the resources below are newer works (written after 1970) which previously were available only for purchase in book form or in a Bible They werent perfect, and later there would be issues within the early church, but they strove to live out those two commands in a very real way. Thats enough to put the phobos of God in anyone. Boiling Springs, North Carolina, United States, A resource for the whole church from Luther Seminary. Miracles had a bigger impact on people when Jesus was performing them himself or through people back in the time frame of Acts. Some who had come to Jerusalem from other nations for the Passover may have elected to stay in Jerusalem after becoming believers. We tend to think of miracles as these huge things but miracles can be for the littlest things such as things financially, relationship-wise, anything honestly. WebActs 2:42-47 meaning. Today, the modern church does not hold their devoted prayer meetings in Jewish temples. My personal opinion is the whole communal living came out of the fact that all the Jews were now moving to Jerusalem to await the gathering of Israel as P Long stated in his other blog. WebActs 2:42-47 They devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. I think the answer to this is yes and no. The kingdom of God is imminent, indeed, is here. Realizing that traditional influences may not be sturdy evidence for solid thought processes, I am beginning to understand the subtle complexity and overwhelming simplicity of the church. Note the word play between koina (in common) in this verse and koinonia (fellowship) in verse 42. *Scripture verses covered in this section's commentary are noted in italics, Home / Commentary / Acts / Acts Chapter 2 / Acts 2:42-47. Phillip J. Due in part to the historical context of the passage at the time, these activities were specific for the people of the Jewish community. The next reason is that it is a matter of being human and having a sinful nature and doing what we want more than the action God would take. This stirred up thanksgiving and joy in their hearts. Since November 2021, Reading Acts is edited by Sarah Westphal. Also, the breaking of bread in this context is one of four activities. Enduring Word Web1. Barclay, William, Daily Study Bible: Acts, (Edinburgh: The Saint Andrew Press, 1976), Bock, Darrell L., Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament: Acts (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2007), Bruce, F. F., The New International Commentary on the New Testament: The Book of Acts (Revised)(Grand Rapids: William B Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1988), Brueggemann, Walter; Cousar, Charles B.; Gaventa, Beverly R.; and Newsome, James D., Texts for Preaching: A Lectionary Commentary Based on the NRSVYear A (Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 1995), Craddock, Fred B.; Hayes, John H.; Holladay, Carl R.; Tucker, Gene M., Preaching Through the Christian Year, A (Valley Forge: Trinity Press International, 1992), Dillman, C.N., in Bromiley, Geoffrey (General Editor), The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, Volume Four: Q-Z Revised (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1988), Fackre, Gabriel, in Van Harn, Roger (ed. Signs are actions that point to something beyond themselves. Acts 2:42 is talking about the believers devotion to the teaching of the Apostles, fellowship, the breaking of bread and prayers. After the Spirit was poured out, as well as before, while they were waiting for him, they continued instant in prayer; for prayer will never be superseded till it comes to be swallowed up in everlasting praise. Worshipping God is to be our daily work, and, where there is opportunity, the oftener it is done publicly the better. He paints the church in its infancy in idealistic colors, although he knows that the golden age has faded (Walasky, 47). Give to the poor what you can and imitate Pauls example by earning a living that you may give back as well. And with miracles, I think we often hesitate to know what to call a miracle or not. Thirdly, the community was dedicated to the breaking of bread, which probably was a description of an act of communion. They do not relate community Reasons such as the coffee mug use that each one of these verses play a role in. Take a moment to review last weekends sermon. What happens in communion seems like a spiritual act of worship, a time of self reflection and confession, etc. The summaries tell incomplete stories of how the nascent group of believers constituted a community. We know that these disciples spent a good deal of time in a temple (v. 46), so the phrase, the prayer, probably includes prayers used in the temple. The third thing the believers did differently in Acts was the breaking of bread, which I had been taught was like potluck where everyone pooled in what they had. Acts 2:42-47 What is the difference between what is happening in Acts 2 and 2 Thessalonians 3? I am not trying to bash any churches here in the least. This apocalyptic psych undoubtedly carried over into early Christian perspectives. Our modern-day medicine and technology have rapidly increased since Bible times so many things that can be seen as miracles are accredited to the work of modern-day medicine and technology instead of the Lord. When Luke speaks of the breaking of bread, does he mean an ordinary meal or the celebration of the Lords Supper? Much of this might have been due to persecution (Hebrews 10:34). I think that this goes back to the discussion we had last posting about the heart of the early church. Just as they grew, so did tensions among the political leaders in Jerusalem. If this is the case, then there was a basic body of tradition within months of the death of Jesus which could be called the teaching of the apostles.. In all this, the first believers were praising God and having favor with all the people. New believers join their community every day. Here we find defense ( Acts 2:14-21 ), proclamation ( Acts 2:22-36 ), and exhortation ( Acts 2:37-41 ). summarizes the daily life of the earliest Christian community in Jerusalem. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. I think miracles are still happening, but may be occurring without our awareness, or not as frequently because we are limited in our thinking. 42 All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lords Supper[ a]), and .1) The teaching of the Apostles meant the 12 True Apostles, who knew Jesus personally for 3 1/2 years, were appointed and recognized The Eleven plus Matthias. Note, Undissembled piety and charity will command respect; and cheerfulness in serving God will recommend religion to those that are without.