Meaning of Acts 20:7

This verse from Acts 20:7 describes a specific gathering of early Christians in Troas, highlighting their regular practice of meeting on the "first day of the week" for worship and fellowship. The phrase "break bread" not only refers to a shared meal but, in this context, strongly suggests the celebration of the Lord's Supper, a central act of Christian communion instituted by Jesus. The extended duration of Paul's teaching, continuing until midnight, underscores the intense spiritual hunger of the believers and the profound importance of the apostolic instruction being imparted, especially in light of Paul's imminent departure. This event demonstrates the vibrant community life and devotion characteristic of the nascent church.

Context and Background

The passage occurs during Paul's third missionary journey, as he makes his way back to Jerusalem. He is in Troas, a port city in Asia Minor, and has stopped there for seven days. This extended stay indicates a deliberate decision to fellowship with the believers in that location. The "first day of the week" (which corresponds to Sunday) had already become the customary day for Christian assemblies, replacing or at least supplementing the Sabbath (Saturday) observance of Judaism. This shift signifies the new covenant in Christ and the inauguration of a new era of worship centered on the resurrection of Jesus, which occurred on the first day of the week. The breaking of bread, therefore, is not merely a social meal but a sacred observance commemorating Christ's sacrifice.

Key Themes and Messages

• The Lord's Day: The verse clearly establishes Sunday as the primary day of worship for the early church. This day's significance is rooted in Christ's resurrection, marking the definitive victory over sin and death and the beginning of a new creation.
• Communion and Fellowship: "Breaking bread" signifies both physical sustenance and spiritual communion. It represents the unity of believers in Christ, sharing in His body and blood through the Lord's Supper.
• Apostolic Teaching: Paul's lengthy discourse emphasizes the vital role of sound doctrine and apostolic teaching in the life of the church. The believers' willingness to listen until midnight highlights their eagerness to receive God's word.
• Commitment and Sacrifice: The extended meeting, even into the night, demonstrates the commitment of both the preacher and the congregation. It suggests a willingness to prioritize spiritual nourishment and fellowship over personal comfort or rest.

Spiritual Significance and Application

For believers today, Acts 20:7 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of dedicated worship and communal fellowship. It encourages us to set aside the "first day of the week" (Sunday) as a day of rest and spiritual focus, honoring the resurrection of our Lord. The verse calls us to engage deeply with God's word, recognizing its transformative power, and to participate meaningfully in the Lord's Supper as a tangible expression of our unity with Christ and with one another. It also inspires us to emulate the dedication of the early Christians, prioritizing spiritual growth and community even when it requires personal sacrifice.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This verse fits within the broader narrative of the establishment and growth of the early church as chronicled in the book of Acts. It illustrates the continuation of Jesus' commission to His disciples to make disciples and teach them all that He commanded (Matthew 28:19-20). The emphasis on the "first day of the week" aligns with other New Testament references, such as 1 Corinthians 16:2, which speaks of setting aside offerings "on the first day of every week," further solidifying Sunday as the day of Christian assembly and giving. The breaking of bread directly echoes Jesus' institution of the Lord's Supper in the Upper Room (Luke 22:19-20).

Analogies

One analogy for the extended teaching in Acts 20:7 is that of a starving person being offered a feast; they will eagerly consume every morsel, even if it means sitting at the table for a long time. Similarly, the believers in Troas, having received the profound spiritual nourishment of Paul's words, were so engaged that they were willing to forgo sleep. Another analogy could be a dedicated student attending a special lecture by a renowned master in their field; the student would absorb every detail, knowing the opportunity might not come again soon.

Relation to Other Verses

• 1 Corinthians 11:23-26: This passage details Jesus' institution of the Lord's Supper, emphasizing its remembrance of His sacrifice. Acts 20:7 shows the early church practicing this command.
• John 20:1, 19: These verses describe Jesus' resurrection on the first day of the week and His appearance to the disciples on that same day, providing the theological foundation for Sunday worship.
• Hebrews 10:24-25: This passage exhorts believers not to forsake the assembling of themselves together, highlighting the importance of corporate worship and mutual encouragement, which is precisely what is depicted in Acts 20:7.
• 1 Timothy 4:13: Paul instructs Timothy to devote himself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, and to teaching. Acts 20:7 exemplifies this pastoral duty.