Acts 2:46
And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,
Acts 2:46 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Acts describes the early Christian community in Jerusalem and the unity and joy they experienced in fellowship with one another. The phrase "continuing daily with one accord in the temple" emphasizes the dedication and regularity of their gatherings for worship and prayer. The practice of "breaking bread from house to house" highlights their communal meals and shared meals, symbolizing their unity and solidarity as a community. The mention of eating their meat with gladness and singleness of heart reflects the joy and sincerity with which they came together to share food and fellowship. Overall, this verse illustrates the deep sense of community, joy, and unity that characterized the early Christian church, serving as an example for believers to follow in their own relationships and gatherings.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Acts, the phrase "eating their meat with gladness and singleness of heart" provides a vivid picture of the unity and joy that the early Christian community experienced as they gathered together. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of fellowship and communal worship among believers. The reference to eating together represents the sharing of both physical sustenance and spiritual nourishment among the members of the early church. The word "singleness" can also be translated as sincerity or simplicity, emphasizing the purity and authenticity of their worship. This verse highlights the spiritual bond that united the early Christians as they came together in worship and fellowship. Additionally, word studies on phrases like "one accord" and "breaking bread" further reveal the deep sense of community and mutual support that characterized the early church. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of unity, joy, and sincerity in the practice of Christian faith.
Acts 2:46 in other translations
American Standard Version
And day by day, continuing stedfastly with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread at home, they took their food with gladness and singleness of heart,
World English Bible
Day by day, continuing steadfastly with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread at home, they took their food with gladness and singleness of heart,
Douay-Rheims
And continuing daily with one accord in the temple and breaking bread from house to house, they took their meat with gladness and simplicity of heart:
Geneva Bible (1599)
And they continued dayly with one accord in the Temple, and breaking bread at home, did eate their meate together with gladnesse and singlenesse of heart,