What does it mean to be a part of the early church? In this article, we will explore the four essential practices that characterized the first believers in Jerusalem, as recorded in Acts 2:42. These practices are: the apostles’ teaching, the fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer.
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer.
Acts 2:42 (CSB)
The apostles’ teaching refers to the doctrine and instruction that the twelve apostles received from Jesus and passed on to the new converts. They taught them about the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies, the coming of the Holy Spirit, and the mission of the church. They also taught them how to live as followers of Christ in a hostile world. The apostles’ teaching was authoritative and foundational for the early church.
The fellowship refers to the close and loving relationship that the believers shared with one another. They had all things in common and gave generously to those in need. They met daily in the temple courts and in their homes. They ate together with glad and sincere hearts. They supported and encouraged one another in their faith and witness. The fellowship was a visible sign of their unity and love in Christ.
The breaking of bread refers to both the common meals that the believers shared and the celebration of the Lord’s Supper. The common meals were a way of expressing hospitality and friendship among the believers. The Lord’s Supper was a way of remembering and proclaiming the death and resurrection of Jesus. It was also a way of anticipating his return and the future banquet in his kingdom. The breaking of bread was a symbol of their participation in Christ and his body.
Prayer refers to both the individual and corporate communication with God that the believers engaged in. They prayed for themselves and for others. They prayed for guidance and wisdom. They prayed for strength and courage. They prayed for God’s will and kingdom to come. They prayed with praise and thanksgiving. They prayed with faith and expectation. Prayer was a means of their dependence on God and his power.
These four practices were not optional or occasional for the early church. They were essential and continual. They were not only individual but also communal. They were not only spiritual but also practical. They were not only inward but also outward. They were not only for their own benefit but also for God’s glory.
As we reflect on these practices, we can ask ourselves: How are we following the example of the early church? How are we devoted to the apostles’ teaching, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer? How are we growing in our knowledge, love, worship, and witness of Christ? How are we being transformed by his grace and power? How are we making a difference in his name?
Jesus Quotes and God Thoughts 
Amen: “The fellowship was a visible sign of their unity and love in Christ.” Blessings for a day filled with unity and love in Christ.
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Good point about these practices: ” They were not only individual but also communal. They were not only spiritual but also practical. They were not only inward but also outward. They were not only for their own benefit but also for God’s glory.”
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Yes, individual and communal. No one is meant to go it alone, and everyone must spend time alone with God.
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Good point I don’t often think of fellowship as part of devotional life but you are right. Acts 2:42 is a great verse
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