Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
They that gladly received his word - The word ασμενως, which signifies joyfully, readily, willingly, implies that they approved of the doctrine delivered; that they were glad to hear of this way of salvation; and that they began immediately to act according to its dictates. This last sense is well expressed in a similar phrase by Josephus: when speaking of the young Israelites enticing the Midianitish women to sin, by fair speeches, he says, αἱ δε ασμενως δεξαμεναι τους λογους συνῃεσαν αυτοις, Ant. l. iv. c. 4. Then they who approved of their words consorted with them. The word is however omitted by ABCD, Coptic, Sahidic, Ethiopic, Vulgate, the Itala of the Codex Bezae, Clemens, and Chrysostom. Were baptized - That is, in the name of Jesus, Act 2:38, for this was the criterion of a Jew's conversion; and when a Jew had received baptism in this name he was excluded from all communication with his countrymen; and no man would have forfeited such privileges but on the fullest and clearest conviction. This baptism was a very powerful means to prevent their apostasy; they had, by receiving baptism in the name of Jesus, renounced Judaism, and all the political advantages connected with it; and they found it indispensably necessary to make the best use of that holy religion which they had received in its stead. Dr. Lightfoot has well remarked, that the Gentiles who received the Christian doctrine were baptized in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost; whereas the Jewish converts, for the reasons already given, were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Were added - three thousand souls - Προσετεθησαν, They went over from one party to another. The Greek writers make use of this verb to signify that act by which cities, towns, or provinces changed their masters, and put themselves under another government. So these 3000 persons left the scribes and Pharisees, and put themselves under the teaching of the apostles, professing the Christian doctrine, and acknowledging that Christ was come, and that he who was lately crucified by the Jews was the promised and only Messiah; and in this faith they were baptized. These 3000 were not converted under one discourse, nor in one place, nor by one person. All the apostles preached, some in one language, and some in another; and not in one house - for where was there one at that time that could hold such a multitude of people? For, out of the multitudes that heard, 3000 were converted; and if one in five was converted it must have been a very large proportion. The truth seems to by this: All the apostles preached in different, parts of the city, during the course of that day; and in that day, τῃ ἡμερᾳ εκεινῃ, 3000 converts were the fruits of the conjoint exertions of these holy men. Dr. Lightfoot thinks that the account in this place is the fulfillment of the prophecy in Psa 110:1, etc.: The Lord said unto my Lord, sit thou on my right hand; this refers to the resurrection and ascension of Christ. Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power, Psa 110:3. This was the day of his power; and while the apostles proclaimed his death, resurrection, and ascension, the people came willingly in, and embraced the doctrines of Christianity.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
BEAUTIFUL BEGINNINGS OF THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH. (Act 2:41-47) they that gladly received his word were baptized--"It is difficult to say how three thousand could be baptized in one day, according to the old practice of a complete submersion; and the more as in Jerusalem there was no water at hand except Kidron and a few pools. The difficulty can only be removed by supposing that they already employed sprinkling, or baptized in houses in large vessels. Formal submersion in rivers, or larger quantities of water, probably took place only where the locality conveniently allowed it" [OLSHAUSEN]. the same day there were added to them about three thousand souls--fitting inauguration of the new kingdom, as an economy of the Spirit!
John Gill Bible Commentary
And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine,.... And which is the same with the doctrine of Christ, of which he is the author, preacher, and subject; the substance of which is peace, pardon, righteousness, and salvation by him: this the apostles received from Christ, and constantly taught in their ministry; for which reason, it is called theirs; and this these young converts had embraced gladly; and were not only believers of it, but persevering believers; they were constant hearers of it; they continually attended on the ministry of the apostles, and held fast the form of sound words they had received from them; and stood fast in the faith of the Gospel, notwithstanding all the reproach cast upon it, and the afflictions they endured for it: and fellowship; with the apostles and other saints, in spiritual conversation with them, in private, and in communion with them at the Lord's table in public: and so the Vulgate Latin reads this clause, in connection with the next, thus, "in the communication of breaking of bread"; to which agrees the Syriac version, and "they communicated in prayer, and in breaking of the eucharist"; though it seems better to understand this of a distinct branch of fellowship, or communication, and may rather intend liberality and beneficence, in which sense it is used, Rom 15:26 and so expresses their constant contributions towards the support of the apostles, as ministers of the word and of the poor members of the church; a duty which, in both its branches, is incumbent on those who have it in their power to perform, and which these first Christians were remarkable for: and in breaking of bread; or "of the eucharist": as the Syriac version renders it, which was an usual name with the ancients for the Lord's supper; and which seems to be intended here, and not eating common bread, or a common meal; seeing it is here mentioned with religious exercises: and though the Jews used to begin their meals with breaking of bread, yet the whole repast, or meal, is never by them called by that name; and for what reason these saints should be commended for keeping their common meals, cannot be said, unless to show their sociableness, agreement, and brotherly love in eating together; and which is not hinted at here, but in Act 2:46 where it is mentioned as something distinct from this: it seems rather therefore to design, that they were constant at the Lord's table, kept their places there, and duly attended whenever the ordinance was administered: and in prayers: not only in their closets, and in their families, but in the church; in the public prayers of the church, they observed all opportunities of this kind, and gladly embraced them.
Three Thousand Believe
40With many other words he testified, and he urged them, “Be saved from this corrupt generation.” 41Those who embraced his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to the believers that day.
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(Australia) Another Gospel
By David Wilkerson32K51:40Another GospelMAT 26:26ACT 2:412TI 4:2In this sermon, the preacher talks about the contrast between the prosperity and comfort of some people's lives and the struggles and brokenness that others face. He emphasizes the need to preach the true gospel, which includes the reality of sin, judgment, and the power of Jesus Christ to deliver from addiction. The preacher shares his personal experience of being burdened by the prevalence of death and chaos in society and feeling called by God to establish a church in New York City. He encourages the audience to fully obey God and address any areas of apathy or lack of prayer in their lives.
Only One Life Will Soon Be Past
By Zac Poonen19K49:36EternityMAT 6:33ACT 2:411CO 3:122CO 5:10EPH 4:311TI 6:7REV 21:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living a life that pleases God. He highlights the concept of appearing before the judgment seat of Christ, where believers will be evaluated based on the quality of their works. The speaker warns against focusing solely on quantity and statistics, urging listeners to consider the motives behind their actions. He encourages a deeper study of Scripture and a willingness to pause and reflect on specific verses that speak to us personally.
(Europe 2008) Session 1 - a Man Sent From God
By B.H. Clendennen9.0K1:01:30CallingPSA 46:6MAT 6:33JHN 1:6ACT 2:3ACT 2:41ACT 4:31ACT 9:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need for a revival in London and the world. He mentions that before the Wesleyan revival, there were no gospel churches in London, but when the revival came, everything changed. The speaker also highlights the importance of speaking by the Holy Spirit and living a life dedicated to God. He emphasizes the need for ministers who are fearless and anointed by God to speak the truth. The speaker concludes by stating that the only answer to the current demonic times is a supernatural intervention of God through revival.
How to Evangelize the World
By Oswald J. Smith7.8K41:50World EvangelizationMAT 28:19ACT 2:41In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of publishing the gospel among all nations before the end of this age. They believe that once every nation has had the opportunity to hear the message of salvation, Jesus Christ will take over the reins of government and rule the world for a thousand years. The speaker passionately appeals for the tools needed to finish the job of evangelizing the world, drawing inspiration from Sir Winston Churchill's plea for tools to win the war. They also discuss the challenge of evangelizing the world in this generation and illustrate it with the example of a billion dollars being invested in building churches but not enough being given for world evangelization. The sermon concludes by highlighting the need for churches to prioritize evangelization and overcome the obstacles of persecution.
A Mighty Minority
By K.P. Yohannan7.2K47:37Christian LivingGEN 17:5MAL 3:10MAT 6:1ACT 2:41ACT 3:1ACT 4:13ACT 5:1In this sermon, the speaker shares personal experiences of preaching the word of God and witnessing powerful transformations. He encourages believers not to be afraid of rejection or persecution, reminding them that Jesus will never leave or forsake them. The speaker emphasizes the importance of having a concern for others who do not know Jesus and the need to pray for them. He then references Acts chapter 2, highlighting the unity and power of the early believers who preached the gospel and saw 3,000 people come to faith. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the importance of unity in the body of Christ and the power of prayer.
(Forging the Vessel of Recovery) 1- the Success of the First Century Church
By B.H. Clendennen6.9K56:34ApostolicEXO 15:23LUK 10:17ACT 1:8ACT 2:4ACT 2:41ACT 3:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of personal witness for Christ. They highlight that while television, radio, and printed materials are valuable tools for spreading the gospel, nothing can replace the impact of a personal testimony. The speaker mentions a survey that found that only one person in a thousand is in the church because of television, while 98% of people come to church because someone personally shared their faith with them. The sermon also emphasizes the need for believers to actively engage in sharing the gospel with others, rather than relying solely on financial contributions or media outreach. The speaker shares examples of the power of the gospel to transform lives and communities, and encourages listeners to have a deep love for Jesus as their motivation for sharing the good news.
Prodigal Church
By B.H. Clendennen5.2K47:29LukewarmnessMAT 11:12MAT 14:25LUK 15:13ACT 2:2ACT 2:411TI 4:1JUD 1:3In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of the prodigal son from the Bible. He compares the prodigal son to the state of the church, describing how it has become impoverished and compromised by the world. The preacher emphasizes the importance of turning away from worldly ways and returning to God. He highlights the love and forgiveness of God, using the example of the prodigal son's father welcoming him back with open arms. The sermon encourages the church to repent and seek a renewed relationship with God.
What Difference Does the Holy Spirit Make?
By A.W. Tozer5.2K44:58Holy SpiritMRK 16:15ACT 1:4ACT 1:8ACT 2:4ACT 2:41ACT 4:31ACT 5:12In this sermon, the preacher discusses the lack of wonder and vague sense of reality that many people live by. He then tells a story about the disciples and how the Holy Spirit brought a change in their lives. The Holy Spirit gave them a sense of joy and transformed their emotional tone. The preacher contrasts the lack of joy in the Four Gospels with the abundance of joy in the book of Acts. He also criticizes the idea of trying to bring the world into the church without regeneration or sanctification. The preacher emphasizes the need for believers to have a separation that allows them to see another world and to have the authority to proclaim the message of God. He also comments on the superficial attempts to find joy in dance halls and rock and roll sessions.
A Personal Pentecost
By Bill McLeod4.6K54:28PentecostMAT 6:33JHN 3:16ACT 2:41ACT 4:12ACT 4:31ROM 10:17EPH 3:19In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful testimony of a revival that took place in the Hebrides islands. Prior to the revival, every home in those islands had Bible reading and prayer twice a day, which laid a foundation for the young people to hear the basic truths of the gospel. During the revival, without a preacher present, all 80 young people in a gathering fell on their knees and wept, crying out to God and getting saved. The speaker emphasizes the importance of keeping our eyes fixed on God and shares the story of a man who wasted years before experiencing a powerful revival. The sermon also highlights the significance of the Holy Spirit's presence in the lives of believers, referencing passages from Acts and Galatians.
(Christ) the Power of Christ-Centered Theology - Part 1
By Denny Kenaston3.9K1:07:15Christ CenteredEXO 33:18MAT 22:37JHN 1:14ACT 2:412CO 3:182CO 4:6COL 1:18In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the growth of a church and the impact of preaching about Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the importance of surrendering one's life to Christ and allowing revival to be a daily reality. The speaker shares the joy of taking people to New York City to preach and fellowship about Christ, witnessing the transformation in their hearts. However, the speaker expresses concern about the low demand for sermons about Jesus Christ compared to practical topics. He encourages listeners to recognize the centrality of Christ in their lives and the edifying effect of preaching about Him.
(Forging the Vessel of Recovery) 6- Recovery of Real Faith
By B.H. Clendennen3.9K57:37RecoveryMAT 6:33JHN 7:37JHN 16:7ACT 1:14ACT 2:1ACT 2:41ACT 19:23In this sermon, the preacher shares about a powerful experience of God's presence in a church service. He describes how the power of God hit the congregation, leading to intense prayer and spiritual manifestations. The preacher emphasizes the importance of faith and the Holy Spirit in the Christian walk, highlighting their connection to the will and word of God. He also references the story of a man who remained steadfast in his faith despite being imprisoned and mistreated, showing the unwavering nature of true faith. The sermon concludes with a reminder that faith is not solely based on witnessing miracles, but on a deep relationship with God and a commitment to His Word.
(Europe 2008) Session 6 - the Revelation of God in Man
By B.H. Clendennen3.7K1:04:55Revelation Of GodPSA 133:1ACT 2:1ACT 2:41ACT 4:311CO 6:19GAL 2:20EPH 4:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being dependent on Christ and having a personal knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. He uses the example of Paul's life to illustrate the contradiction of being dead yet alive in Christ. The preacher warns against compromising the message of the gospel, as it is the power that holds the moral universe together. He also shares a personal experience of God speaking to him and emphasizes the significance of resurrection over birth in understanding God's message.
Canaan on Earth
By C.H. Spurgeon3.3K39:48DEU 11:11PSA 66:5MAT 7:21ACT 2:41ROM 13:141CO 11:23GAL 6:15The sermon transcript discusses the journey of a man who was initially an infidel but eventually found Christianity and became a preacher. The man went through a period of self-denial and intense study, dedicating himself to his faith. He realized the vanity of his previous pursuits and the importance of gaining spiritual understanding. The sermon also highlights the significance of coming out of Egypt as a symbol of deliverance and the journey through the wilderness as a period of doubt and uncertainty before attaining full faith. The church mentioned in the transcript has experienced this journey and emphasizes the importance of acknowledging God in all aspects of life.
Thursday #1 Revival in the Late 1800's
By J. Edwin Orr3.3K27:40Revival HistoryPSA 78:4PSA 145:21DAN 6:16MAT 6:33MAT 22:37ACT 2:411TH 5:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of sharing the stories of God's work with future generations. He also mentions two significant awakenings that occurred in the United States, one after the Revolutionary War and another before the Civil War. The speaker shares a story about evangelist D.L. Moody and his powerful preaching, as well as the Student Volunteer Movement for Foreign Missions that was inspired by a young man named Robert Wilder. The sermon emphasizes the need for another great awakening in America and highlights the beginning of a movement in Charlestown, Massachusetts.
Wednesday #1 Revival in America – Mid 1800’s
By J. Edwin Orr3.3K43:59Revival HistoryLUK 15:10JHN 4:35ACT 2:2ACT 2:41ACT 4:31ACT 9:3ACT 10:44In this sermon transcript, the speaker describes a packed meeting where he reads scripture, offers commentary, and leads prayer. He shares a story of someone telling him that people are initially disappointed when they see him, but then realize that only God could use him. The speaker explains that each evening they follow a pattern of sharing God's wonderful works in the country. He mentions a prayer meeting in Chicago during a boom time in the United States, where thousands of men gathered to pray. The speaker also mentions revivals happening in Pittsburgh and other places.
Being Filled With the Holy Spirit Part 2
By L.E. Maxwell2.8K23:19Holy SpiritChristian WitnessACT 2:41GAL 5:22L.E. Maxwell emphasizes the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit, using Peter's hypocrisy at Antioch and the contrasting experiences of Paul and John the Baptist to illustrate that true success in ministry is not always visible. He reflects on the lives of biblical figures who faced trials and challenges despite being filled with the Spirit, highlighting that God's definition of success differs from human expectations. Maxwell encourages believers to seek the Spirit's filling not for outward success but for the ability to live a Christlike life, bear witness, and fulfill their duties in faith. He concludes with a prayer for believers to welcome the Holy Spirit's indwelling power in their lives.
Journey Through the Book of Acts
By K.P. Yohannan2.8K58:43Filled With The SpiritACT 1:8ACT 2:14ACT 2:41ACT 2:46ACT 5:12HEB 13:5In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful testimony of a five-minute sermon that extended to 30 minutes, resulting in 21 people on the street weeping and coming forward to ask for forgiveness and learn more about Jesus. The speaker encourages listeners not to be afraid of rejection or persecution when sharing their faith, reminding them that Jesus will never leave or forsake them. The sermon then transitions to a discussion of Acts chapter 3, focusing on the healing of a crippled beggar and the impact of a young girl named Gisela who used the money she collected to support missionary work in South America. The speaker emphasizes the importance of having a concern for others who do not know Jesus and encourages listeners to walk into the fire of God's love and experience transformation and warmth. The sermon concludes by highlighting the significance of the book of Acts as a source of inspiration and guidance for believers, providing living examples of how to live a life pleasing to God.
Capernwray Bible School 2
By Alan Redpath2.8K1:01:10Bible College LectureMAT 6:33ACT 2:4ACT 2:41EPH 5:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having the fullness of the Holy Spirit in every aspect of the Christian life. He explains that the goal of the Christian life is to become like Christ, not by imitating him, but by having him imparted to our hearts. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a man who remained thankful even in the midst of a difficult situation, highlighting the power of being filled with the Spirit. He also discusses the importance of not questioning why certain things happen to us, but instead focusing on the lessons we can learn from them.
Getting to the Other Side of Your Storm
By Carter Conlon2.5K44:22Storm Of LifeMAT 6:33ACT 2:41ACT 19:10ACT 27:9ACT 27:20ACT 27:25In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Paul and his journey to Rome. The speaker emphasizes the importance of following God's will rather than our own desires. He highlights how following our own will can lead to despair and hopelessness, while following God's will brings purpose and hope. The speaker encourages the audience to invite God into their lives and trust in Him, even in difficult times.
The Damnation of Hell - Part 2 (Compilation)
By Compilations2.5K30:36CompilationGEN 22:2MAT 10:32MAT 18:3MRK 6:14ACT 2:41ROM 8:26HEB 10:17In this sermon, the preacher recounts a story of a little girl who had a powerful encounter with God during a church service. The preacher describes how the girl stood in awe and fear of God, and how she was deeply moved by the presence of the Holy Spirit. Despite not kneeling or praying, the girl held onto a pew tightly and wept uncontrollably. The preacher emphasizes the importance of repentance and warns of the judgment that awaits those who do not turn to God. The preacher also expresses a desire to warn sinners and urges listeners to fear sin and seek a relationship with God.
Holy Spirit, Church and Nations - Part 1
By T. Austin-Sparks2.4K52:20Holy SpiritMAT 28:19MRK 16:15ACT 1:1ACT 1:9ACT 2:1ACT 2:41ROM 10:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that humanity is lost and astray when they fail to recognize their spiritual condition. The speaker highlights that the events and actions in the world have deep spiritual significance and carry profound truths. Despite the efforts of countless individuals and organizations to spread the gospel, only half of the world knows about God, and Christianity is losing its influence. The speaker draws a comparison to the early church, which initially had a powerful impact on the world but eventually experienced a decline in its testimony. The sermon concludes by mentioning the revival of the church's responsibility for mission work in the last hundred years.
Trust and Obey - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill2.1K58:31Trust And ObeyMAT 6:33JHN 16:8ACT 2:41HEB 1:11PE 1:4REV 1:3REV 20:15In this sermon, the preacher starts by mentioning the excitement surrounding football in England and a recent news story about a figure skater's intense training. He then criticizes Bible students for not being as dedicated to their studies. The preacher emphasizes the importance of delivering a dynamic message to awaken people and save them from hell. He also discusses the role of Peter, one of Jesus' apostles, and highlights the significance of having Jesus as a role model. The sermon concludes with a mention of the book of Revelation and the hope of an incorruptible inheritance in heaven.
The Persistent Purpose of God #14: Questions and Answers
By T. Austin-Sparks1.9K47:41Purpose Of GodJOS 7:21EZK 20:43MAT 6:33ACT 2:411CO 10:31HEB 12:5REV 2:4The video discusses two distinct periods in the spiritual journey of the local churches. The first period, which occurred six years ago, was characterized by an easy experience of salvation and a strong love for the Lord. Many people came to know Jesus Christ and dedicated their lives to serving Him. The second period, which has been ongoing for the past three years, has been more challenging and dissatisfying. The speaker compares this period to the deeper stages of a married relationship, where the initial excitement fades and a deeper, stronger connection is formed. The video raises questions about the current state of the churches and seeks guidance on how to address the issues and help others in their spiritual journey.
Sanctification : 4. God's Ways With His Children
By Zac Poonen1.9K59:21SanctificationGEN 9:20ISA 55:8MAT 6:33LUK 22:31ACT 2:41In this sermon, the speaker discusses four ways in which God's ways differ from our expectations. The first area is failure, where the speaker explains that failure is essential for our spiritual growth and humility. They use the example of Peter's preaching on the day of Pentecost, where 3,000 people were saved in just 15 minutes. The speaker also mentions the incident where Peter is released from prison while James had already been killed, highlighting the mystery of God's ways. They caution against preachers who don't understand God's ways and distort scripture. The speaker emphasizes the importance of balance and truth in various aspects of the Christian life, such as love for God and man, the fruit and gifts of the Spirit, and the kindness and severity of God.
Choose to Serve, Part Two
By K.P. Yohannan1.8K25:58ServiceMAT 18:14MRK 10:14LUK 9:23JHN 6:9ACT 2:41ROM 10:14HEB 13:12In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful testimony of a church in Nagpur that started with a school and now has over 400 baptized believers. The speaker emphasizes the importance of showing the love of the Lord to others, especially the poor and rejected. He encourages listeners to reflect on their own blessings and consider how they can join in the mission of reaching out to those in need. The speaker also highlights the significance of the word "harvest" in missions and the opportunity to bring millions of souls into eternity.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
They that gladly received his word - The word ασμενως, which signifies joyfully, readily, willingly, implies that they approved of the doctrine delivered; that they were glad to hear of this way of salvation; and that they began immediately to act according to its dictates. This last sense is well expressed in a similar phrase by Josephus: when speaking of the young Israelites enticing the Midianitish women to sin, by fair speeches, he says, αἱ δε ασμενως δεξαμεναι τους λογους συνῃεσαν αυτοις, Ant. l. iv. c. 4. Then they who approved of their words consorted with them. The word is however omitted by ABCD, Coptic, Sahidic, Ethiopic, Vulgate, the Itala of the Codex Bezae, Clemens, and Chrysostom. Were baptized - That is, in the name of Jesus, Act 2:38, for this was the criterion of a Jew's conversion; and when a Jew had received baptism in this name he was excluded from all communication with his countrymen; and no man would have forfeited such privileges but on the fullest and clearest conviction. This baptism was a very powerful means to prevent their apostasy; they had, by receiving baptism in the name of Jesus, renounced Judaism, and all the political advantages connected with it; and they found it indispensably necessary to make the best use of that holy religion which they had received in its stead. Dr. Lightfoot has well remarked, that the Gentiles who received the Christian doctrine were baptized in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost; whereas the Jewish converts, for the reasons already given, were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Were added - three thousand souls - Προσετεθησαν, They went over from one party to another. The Greek writers make use of this verb to signify that act by which cities, towns, or provinces changed their masters, and put themselves under another government. So these 3000 persons left the scribes and Pharisees, and put themselves under the teaching of the apostles, professing the Christian doctrine, and acknowledging that Christ was come, and that he who was lately crucified by the Jews was the promised and only Messiah; and in this faith they were baptized. These 3000 were not converted under one discourse, nor in one place, nor by one person. All the apostles preached, some in one language, and some in another; and not in one house - for where was there one at that time that could hold such a multitude of people? For, out of the multitudes that heard, 3000 were converted; and if one in five was converted it must have been a very large proportion. The truth seems to by this: All the apostles preached in different, parts of the city, during the course of that day; and in that day, τῃ ἡμερᾳ εκεινῃ, 3000 converts were the fruits of the conjoint exertions of these holy men. Dr. Lightfoot thinks that the account in this place is the fulfillment of the prophecy in Psa 110:1, etc.: The Lord said unto my Lord, sit thou on my right hand; this refers to the resurrection and ascension of Christ. Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power, Psa 110:3. This was the day of his power; and while the apostles proclaimed his death, resurrection, and ascension, the people came willingly in, and embraced the doctrines of Christianity.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
BEAUTIFUL BEGINNINGS OF THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH. (Act 2:41-47) they that gladly received his word were baptized--"It is difficult to say how three thousand could be baptized in one day, according to the old practice of a complete submersion; and the more as in Jerusalem there was no water at hand except Kidron and a few pools. The difficulty can only be removed by supposing that they already employed sprinkling, or baptized in houses in large vessels. Formal submersion in rivers, or larger quantities of water, probably took place only where the locality conveniently allowed it" [OLSHAUSEN]. the same day there were added to them about three thousand souls--fitting inauguration of the new kingdom, as an economy of the Spirit!
John Gill Bible Commentary
And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine,.... And which is the same with the doctrine of Christ, of which he is the author, preacher, and subject; the substance of which is peace, pardon, righteousness, and salvation by him: this the apostles received from Christ, and constantly taught in their ministry; for which reason, it is called theirs; and this these young converts had embraced gladly; and were not only believers of it, but persevering believers; they were constant hearers of it; they continually attended on the ministry of the apostles, and held fast the form of sound words they had received from them; and stood fast in the faith of the Gospel, notwithstanding all the reproach cast upon it, and the afflictions they endured for it: and fellowship; with the apostles and other saints, in spiritual conversation with them, in private, and in communion with them at the Lord's table in public: and so the Vulgate Latin reads this clause, in connection with the next, thus, "in the communication of breaking of bread"; to which agrees the Syriac version, and "they communicated in prayer, and in breaking of the eucharist"; though it seems better to understand this of a distinct branch of fellowship, or communication, and may rather intend liberality and beneficence, in which sense it is used, Rom 15:26 and so expresses their constant contributions towards the support of the apostles, as ministers of the word and of the poor members of the church; a duty which, in both its branches, is incumbent on those who have it in their power to perform, and which these first Christians were remarkable for: and in breaking of bread; or "of the eucharist": as the Syriac version renders it, which was an usual name with the ancients for the Lord's supper; and which seems to be intended here, and not eating common bread, or a common meal; seeing it is here mentioned with religious exercises: and though the Jews used to begin their meals with breaking of bread, yet the whole repast, or meal, is never by them called by that name; and for what reason these saints should be commended for keeping their common meals, cannot be said, unless to show their sociableness, agreement, and brotherly love in eating together; and which is not hinted at here, but in Act 2:46 where it is mentioned as something distinct from this: it seems rather therefore to design, that they were constant at the Lord's table, kept their places there, and duly attended whenever the ordinance was administered: and in prayers: not only in their closets, and in their families, but in the church; in the public prayers of the church, they observed all opportunities of this kind, and gladly embraced them.