John Calvin Commentary Acts 2:46

"And day by day, continuing stedfastly with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread at home, they took their food with gladness and singleness of heart," — Acts 2:46 (ASV)

Continuing in the temple. We must note that they frequented the temple for this reason: because there was more opportunity and occasion offered there to advance the gospel. Nor were they drawn by the holiness of the place, since they knew that the shadows of the law had ceased; nor did they mean to draw others by their example to hold the temple in any such reverence. Instead, because there was a large gathering of people there, who, having set aside their private cares which had preoccupied them elsewhere, were seeking the Lord, they were continually in the temple so that they might win such people to Christ.

There might be another reason which might lead them to this: that they might have mutual discussion and sharing of doctrine among themselves, which they could not have done as conveniently in a private house, especially since there were so many of them.

Breaking bread from house to house. Luke indicates to us that they not only showed some sign of true godliness publicly, but that the general character of their private life was also consistent in this regard. For while some think that in this place, by “breaking of bread” is meant the Holy Supper, it seems to me that Luke meant no such thing.

Therefore, he indicates to us that they used to eat together, and did so frugally. For those who prepare sumptuous banquets do not eat their meals together with such close fellowship. Again, Luke adds, in singleness of heart; which is also a sign of temperance. In summary, his meaning is to declare that their way of life was brotherly and sober.

Some connect simplicity and gladness with the praise of God, and both interpretations may well be accepted. But because there can be no singleness of heart in praising God unless the same is also present in all parts of life, it is therefore certain that mention is made of it in this sense: that the faithful always practiced this singleness of heart in all situations.

And we must also note the circumstances at that time: that, being surrounded and beset by many dangers, they were cheerful and joyful. The knowledge of God’s love toward us, and the hope of His protection, bring us this blessing: that we praise God with peaceful minds, whatever the world may threaten.

And just as Luke spoke a little earlier about the public state of the Church, so he now declares what form and manner of life the faithful practiced. This is so that we may learn from their example a frugal fellowship in our way of living, and in our entire life to embrace singleness, to enjoy spiritual joy, and to engage in praising God.

Furthermore, singleness of heart is far-reaching. If you connect it here with the breaking of bread, it signifies sincere love, where one person deals honestly with another, and no one craftily seeks their own profit.

Yet I would rather contrast this singleness of heart with the anxiety with which worldly people excessively torment themselves. For when we do not cast our care upon the Lord, this is the consequence that hangs over our heads: that we tremble and quake even when we are resting.