Acts 2:42
What does Acts 2:42 mean?
A plain-English look at Acts 2:42 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Acts 2:42 means
This verse describes the defining characteristics of the early church's communal life after the Pentecost conversions. They devoted themselves steadfastly to 'the apostles’ teaching,' indicating a commitment to sound doctrine. Their commitment to 'fellowship' emphasized deep community. The 'breaking of bread' signifies both communal meals and the Lord's Supper, while 'the prayers' speaks to their collective spiritual devotion. These four pillars formed the core of their vibrant, Spirit-filled life.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and the prayers.
KJV
King James Version · 1611And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and the prayers.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949And they kept their attention fixed on the Apostles' teaching and were united together in the taking of broken bread and in prayer.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and they were continuing stedfastly in the teaching of the apostles, and the fellowship, and the breaking of the bread, and the prayers.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And they were persevering in the doctrine of the apostles and in the communication of the breaking of bread and in prayers.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890And they persevered in the teaching and fellowship of the apostles, in breaking of bread and prayers.
Context
Following the mass conversions and baptisms, this verse details the initial practices and communal life of the early church. It sets forth four foundational commitments that characterized their devotion, providing a blueprint for the spiritual health and unity of the new community. This description immediately precedes and helps explain the awe and further manifestations of God's power among them.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Acts 14:22
confirming the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that through many tribulations we must enter into the kingdom of God.
- 2 Peter 3:17
Ye therefore, beloved, knowing these things beforehand, beware lest, being carried away with the error of the wicked, ye fall from your own stedfastness.
- Colossians 4:2
Continue stedfastly in prayer, watching therein with thanksgiving;
- 1 John 1:7
but if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
- 2 Peter 3:1
This is now, beloved, the second epistle that I write unto you; and in both of them I stir up your sincere mind by putting you in remembrance;
- Mark 4:16
And these in like manner are they that are sown upon the rocky places, who, when they have heard the word, straightway receive it with joy;
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore Acts 2
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Acts 2.
Topics that quote it
Topic
Bible Verses About Baptism
Baptism is a significant act symbolizing new life in Christ, repentance, and identification with his death, burial, and resurrection.
Topic
Bible Verses About The Church
The church, in its various forms, is a central theme in Scripture, revealing God's plan for humanity's redemption and community
Topic
Bible Verses About Communion
Communion, often called the Lord's Supper, is a sacred practice remembering Jesus' sacrifice and looking forward to His return.
What the Bible says about…