Acts 2:42
And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
Original Language Analysis
προσκαρτεροῦντες
stedfastly
G4342
προσκαρτεροῦντες
stedfastly
Strong's:
G4342
Word #:
3 of 18
to be earnest towards, i.e., (to a thing) to persevere, be constantly diligent, or (in a place) to attend assiduously all the exercises, or (to a pers
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἀποστόλων
in the apostles
G652
ἀποστόλων
in the apostles
Strong's:
G652
Word #:
7 of 18
a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the gospel; officially a commissioner of christ ("apostle") (with miraculous powers)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
8 of 18
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
κοινωνίᾳ
fellowship
G2842
κοινωνίᾳ
fellowship
Strong's:
G2842
Word #:
10 of 18
partnership, i.e., (literally) participation, or (social) intercourse, or (pecuniary) benefaction
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
11 of 18
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
12 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
14 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
16 of 18
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Cross References
Hebrews 10:25Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.Acts 1:14These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.1 John 1:3That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.Acts 20:7And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.Acts 2:46And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,1 John 1:7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.Ephesians 6:18Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;Colossians 1:23If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;Colossians 4:2Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;Ephesians 2:20And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;
Historical Context
Describes the 3,000 converts' immediate post-Pentecost practice in Jerusalem. These new believers, many from abroad, required instruction in Christian doctrine and integration into community. 'Apostles' doctrine' preceded New Testament writing—initially oral teaching later crystallized into Scripture. Daily temple attendance (v.46) continued alongside distinctly Christian observances.
Questions for Reflection
- Which of these four elements (teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, prayer) is weakest in your church experience?
- How does 'continued stedfastly' challenge modern consumer approaches to church?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
They continued stedfastly (ἦσαν προσκαρτεροῦντες)—The imperfect tense denotes ongoing, habitual practice; 'proskarterountes' means devoted persistence despite obstacles. Luke lists four priorities: the apostles' doctrine (authoritative teaching grounded in eyewitness testimony), fellowship (koinōnia—shared life including material goods, v.44), breaking of bread (the Lord's Supper and/or communal meals), and prayers (corporate intercession). This four-fold pattern defined early church rhythm and remains normative for Christian community. Steadfast continuance, not spectacular experience, marks Spirit-filled living.