Acts 20:7

Acts 20:7 provides a valuable glimpse into the practices of the early Christian church, particularly concerning their worship and fellowship, as the Apostle Paul concludes his ministry in Troas.

Context

This verse is set during Paul's third missionary journey, specifically in the city of Troas, on his way back to Jerusalem. Paul was "ready to depart on the morrow," indicating that this gathering was a significant farewell meeting with the local disciples. His extended stay in Troas (implied by the urgency of his departure) allowed for this important assembly, demonstrating the strong bond between Paul and the burgeoning Christian communities he helped establish. This setting underscores the earnestness of Paul's teaching and the disciples' desire for fellowship.

Key Themes

• Early Christian Worship on Sunday: The phrase "upon the first day of the week" is crucial. It signifies the early church's practice of gathering on what we now call Sunday, distinguishing their worship from the Jewish Sabbath (Saturday). This practice likely emerged to commemorate the day of Christ's resurrection, which occurred on the first day of the week.
• The Centrality of "Breaking Bread": When the disciples "came together to break bread," it refers to a communal meal that often included the celebration of the Lord's Supper, also known as Communion or Eucharist. This act was a foundational element of early Christian fellowship and worship, remembering Christ's sacrifice and anticipating His return. Paul elaborates on its significance in his letters, emphasizing its remembrance of Christ's body and blood.
• The Importance of Preaching and Teaching: Paul's decision to preach "until midnight" underscores the high value placed on the proclamation and teaching of God's Word in the early church. His sermon was not a casual talk but a fervent, lengthy discourse, reflecting his dedication to equipping the believers and his awareness that this might be his last opportunity with them. This commitment to teaching is a hallmark of effective spiritual leadership, as seen throughout Paul's ministry.

Linguistic Insights

• The Greek phrase for "first day of the week" is mia ton sabbaton, literally "one of the Sabbaths" or "the first day after the Sabbath." This clearly indicates Sunday, reinforcing its significance as the day of Christian assembly.
• "To break bread" (Greek: klasai arton) is a common New Testament phrase. While it can refer to a regular meal, in the context of a church gathering, especially with apostles, it strongly implies the observance of the Lord's Supper alongside or as part of a fellowship meal.

Practical Application

Acts 20:7 offers enduring lessons for believers today:

• Prioritizing Corporate Worship: The early church gathered regularly on the first day of the week, setting a pattern for Christian assemblies. This highlights the importance of communal worship, fellowship, and mutual encouragement among believers.
• Valuing God's Word: Paul's all-night sermon demonstrates the profound importance of diligent and passionate teaching of Scripture. Believers should seek out and commit to understanding and applying God's truth in their lives, just as the disciples in Troas listened intently. This commitment to the Word of God remains central to Christian growth.
• The Significance of Communion: The act of breaking bread reminds us to regularly remember Christ's atoning sacrifice and His ongoing presence among His people. It's a powerful symbol of our unity in Him and a call to examine ourselves.
• Diligence in Ministry: Paul's willingness to preach for hours, even knowing he was departing, exemplifies a deep commitment to his calling and the spiritual well-being of the flock. This encourages all believers, especially leaders, to serve with unwavering dedication and passion for the Gospel.