What does Acts 2:47 mean?

Explanation

Acts 2:47 captures a significant moment in the early Christian church's history.

This verse concludes the chapter which details the events of the Pentecost, where the apostles received the Holy Spirit and began to preach to the people in Jerusalem. The "praising God" part reflects the communal worship and the sense of gratitude among the believers.

The phrase "having favour with all the people" suggests that the early Christians were viewed positively by the broader community, potentially due to their acts of kindness and communal living.

The latter part of the verse, "And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved," indicates that the community of believers, referred to as "the church," was growing.

People were being converted to the faith daily, and the phrase "such as should be saved" implies that there is a divine selection or predestination at work, where the individuals who joined the church were intended to experience salvation.

Historical Context

Acts 2:47 comes at the culmination of a broader narrative that describes the supernatural event of Pentecost, the early church's response to it, and the subsequent evangelism led by the apostles.

The historical context is the period immediately following the crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ, during the Jewish festival of Pentecost.

The early church here is depicted in Jerusalem among a diverse and multi-lingual Jewish population that was gathering for the festival.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints might interpret Acts 2:47 in various ways.

A Calvinist might see the verse as evidence of God's sovereign choice in salvation because it is the Lord who adds to the church those who are saved.

An Arminian might emphasize the role of human response to the presentation of the gospel reflected in the daily conversions.

Moreover, some theologians may interpret the "favour with all the people" as a testimony to the importance of Christian witness within a community.

Practical Applications

Practically, Acts 2:47 can inspire contemporary believers to live in a manner that garners respect within their communities, reflecting Christian values through action.

It encourages continuous praise and gratitude towards God and also emphasizes the value of communal worship.

Importantly, this verse can also inspire evangelism and the sharing of the faith with others, trusting that God will draw people into the community of believers.

Cross-References

• Acts 5:14: "And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women."
• Romans 8:30: "Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified."
• 1 Corinthians 12:18: "But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him."

Language Study

Two key Greek words in Acts 2:47 warrant closer examination.

The first is "εὐχαριστοῦντες" (eucharistountes), from which the word "Eucharist" derives, literally means "giving thanks" or "praising." Secondly, the word "ἐπιτίθημι" (epitithemi) translates to "added." In this context, it implies that the Lord was actively placing people into the church, not just passively allowing them to join.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Culturally, this practice can be compared to other ancient religious and community gatherings, where shared beliefs and collective praise were central to the faith experience.

In various ancient religions, collective acts of worship and a sense of belonging to a community where one experiences favor were crucial for the propagation of the faith.

Scientific Perspectives

The scientific community typically refrains from making claims about spiritual experiences and divine intervention as described in verse 47.

Nonetheless, the study of psychology acknowledges the positive psychological and social effects of being part of a supportive community and engaging in group worship or meditation practices.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and commentators have provided insight into Acts 2:47.

Matthew Henry's commentary emphasizes the grace of God in the growth of the church and considers the public favor as a providential help to the early church.

In the Expositor's Greek Testament, W.

Robertson Nicoll interprets the daily addition of believers as a testament to the apostles' successful preaching and the working of the Holy Spirit.

John Calvin, in his commentaries, sees the Lord's inclusion of individuals in the church as evidence of divine election.