Acts 2:42-45

The Early Church At Work

Those who were added together gave constant attention to the apostles' teaching because, as we have just seen, it was the teaching of Christ. Remember Jesus told his followers to teach those who had been baptized to "observe all things that I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:18-20). In adhering to his instructions, the apostles taught them about "fellowship," which is from the Greek word koinonia. Thayer says it means, "association, community, communion, joint participation, intercourse... used of the intimate bond of fellowship which unites Christians." They enjoyed each other's company and gladly shared their material possessions when anyone had need (Romans 15:26; 2 Corinthians 8:4; 2 Corinthians 9:13).

The apostles also taught them to give continuing attention to the breaking of bread. This is an obvious reference to the Lord's supper, since there would be nothing remarkable about new Christians continuing to eat. Then, the twelve guided the new believers in prayer. Coffman writes, "Whereas in Judaism, prayers were offered at stated times of the day, the Christians offered prayers at any and all times, and in any and all places." Such holy living, combined with the miracles worked by the apostles, caused the surrounding community to be in awe (Acts 2:42-45).