Acts 2:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 2:1
1 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.
Chapter Context
Acts 2 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of love, truth, discipleship. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-47: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 2:1
1 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.
Analysis
When the day of Pentecost was fully come (ἐν τῷ συμπληροῦσθαι)—The timing was sovereignly appointed, not accidental. Pentecost (Greek for 'fiftieth') occurred fifty days after Passover, fulfilling Jesus' promise of 'not many days hence' (1:5). They were all with one accord (ὁμοθυμαδόν) emphasizes unity—this Greek word appears eleven times in Acts, always denoting corporate harmony enabling God's work. The 120 believers gathered in prayerful expectation, demonstrating that Pentecost was both divine initiative and human preparation. This moment inaugurates the church age and New Covenant promised by Joel.
Historical Context
Pentecost was the Feast of Weeks, celebrating wheat harvest and (in Jewish tradition) commemorating the giving of the Law at Sinai. Jerusalem would have been crowded with pilgrims from throughout the Mediterranean world—God's timing made maximum gospel spread possible. Occurred around 30 AD, ten days after Christ's ascension.
Reflection
- What role does corporate unity ('one accord') play in experiencing God's power today?
- How does Pentecost's timing during a Jewish feast reveal God's redemptive continuity?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Zephaniah 3:9, Romans 15:6, 1 Corinthians 16:8, Philippians 1:27, 2:2