1:13 1:13

Acts 1:14

1:15 1:15

Bible Versions

These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.
These {G3778} all {G3956} continued {G2258}{G4342} with one accord {G3661} in prayer {G4335} and {G2532} supplication {G1162}, with {G4862} the women {G1135}, and {G2532} Mary {G3137} the mother {G3384} of Jesus {G2424}, and {G2532} with {G4862} his {G846} brethren {G80}.
These all devoted themselves single-mindedly to prayer, along with some women, including Miryam (Yeshua’s mother), and his brothers.
With one accord they all continued in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.
These all with one accord continued stedfastly in prayer, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.

Context

Acts 1:14 describes the activity of the early disciples in the period between Jesus's ascension into heaven and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. After Jesus gave His final instructions and was taken up, the apostles returned to Jerusalem, gathering in an "upper room" (Acts 1:13). This verse specifies that not only the apostles but also various women, Mary the mother of Jesus, and even Jesus's own half-brothers were present. They were obeying Jesus's command to wait in Jerusalem for the promise of the Father, the Holy Spirit.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Unity and Harmony: The phrase "continued with one accord" (Greek: homothymadon) is crucial. It signifies a profound unity of mind, purpose, and spirit among the believers. This isn't just agreement but a shared passion and unanimous devotion. This unity was essential for the early church's foundation and its reception of the Holy Spirit, as seen in the day of Pentecost in Acts 2:1, where they were again "with one accord."
  • Persistent Prayer and Supplication: Their primary activity was consistent prayer. This wasn't passive waiting but active, expectant engagement with God. It demonstrates their dependence on Him for the fulfillment of His promises and their spiritual preparation for the mission ahead. Prayer was the foundation of the early church's life and power.
  • Inclusion and Transformation: The presence of "the women" signifies the vital role of female disciples in the early Christian community. The specific mention of "Mary the mother of Jesus" is noteworthy, as this is her last appearance in the biblical narrative. Perhaps most significant is the inclusion of "his brethren." Previously, Jesus's brothers did not believe in Him (John 7:5). Their presence here, joining in prayer with the apostles, highlights the transformative power of Jesus's resurrection and ascension, bringing even former skeptics into fervent faith.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "with one accord" is homothymadon (ὁμοθυμαδόν). It literally means "with one passion" or "with one mind." This powerful adverb appears 12 times in the New Testament, 10 of which are in the book of Acts, underscoring the remarkable unity and shared purpose that characterized the early Christian community as they faced challenges and pursued their mission.

Practical Application

Acts 1:14 offers timeless lessons for believers today:

  • The Power of Corporate Prayer: Just as the early church prepared for God's outpouring through unified prayer, so too does the church today find strength, guidance, and spiritual breakthrough when believers pray together with one heart and mind.
  • The Importance of Unity: Disunity hinders God's work. This verse reminds us that a shared purpose and harmonious spirit are vital for the health and effectiveness of any Christian community.
  • Expectant Waiting: Waiting on God is not passive idleness but active, prayerful dependence. It involves persistent seeking of God's will and power while anticipating His perfect timing.
  • Transformation in Christ: The inclusion of Jesus's brothers serves as a powerful reminder that no one is beyond the reach of God's transformative grace. Faith in Christ can change even the most resistant hearts.
Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Ephesians 6:18

    Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

  • Acts 6:4

    But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.

  • Acts 2:42

    ¶ And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

  • Colossians 4:2

    ¶ Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;

  • Romans 12:12

    Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;

  • Matthew 18:19

    Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.

  • Matthew 18:20

    For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
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