Why did the disciples gather "on the first day of the week"? Setting the Scene in Acts 20:7 • “On the first day of the week we came together to break bread. Paul spoke to the disciples and, because he intended to depart the next day, he prolonged his message until midnight.” (Acts 20:7) • The verse presents three clear facts: – Day: first day of the week. – Purpose: to “break bread” (the Lord’s Supper). – Activity: extended teaching of the Word. Resurrection Rhythm—Honoring the Risen Lord • Jesus rose “very early on the first day of the week” (Mark 16:2; Luke 24:1). • By gathering on that same day, believers proclaimed the literal, historical resurrection week after week. • John 20:19 shows the risen Christ meeting His disciples that very evening, validating the day’s special status. • Revelation 1:10 calls it “the Lord’s Day,” pointing to a day uniquely associated with Christ’s victory. Apostolic Pattern and Instruction • 1 Corinthians 16:2 instructs, “On the first day of every week, each of you is to set something aside…”—evidence of a habitual, church-wide first-day gathering. • Paul himself models the practice in Acts 20:7, reinforcing that this was not an isolated occurrence but accepted apostolic pattern. • The apostles’ example carries binding authority (Philippians 3:17; 2 Thessalonians 3:7-9). Lord’s Supper at the Center • “Break bread” in Acts 20:7 points to the covenant meal instituted by Christ (Luke 22:19-20). • Observing it on resurrection day ties the memorial of His death to celebration of His triumph, holding both cross and empty tomb together. Teaching and Edification • The lengthy discourse shows that proclamation of Scripture distinguished the gathering (2 Timothy 4:2). • Hebrews 10:25 urges believers not to neglect meeting together; Acts 20:7 illustrates how seriously the early church obeyed that charge. Practical Considerations • In the Roman world, Sunday was an ordinary workday; meeting “until midnight” (Acts 20:7) implies believers gathered after laboring hours, showing commitment rather than convenience. • Collecting funds for needy saints on this day (1 Corinthians 16:2) blended worship with practical love. Continuity, Not Cancellation, of Sabbath Rest • The Sabbath command stands as God’s moral principle of rest and worship (Exodus 20:8-11). • The first-day meeting does not abolish that rhythm but celebrates the new-creation rest secured by the risen Christ (Hebrews 4:9-11). Why It Matters Today • Meeting on the first day proclaims the gospel each week: Christ died, was buried, and rose again (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Following the apostolic pattern unites believers across centuries in shared obedience and hope. |
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