Acts 20:11

When he therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten, and talked a long while, even till break of day, so he departed.

Acts 20:11 (KJV)

Context

This verse concludes the account of Paul’s final visit to Troas. The believers had gathered on the first day of the week to break bread, and Paul was speaking to them. During the meeting, a young man named Eutychus fell from a window and was taken up dead; Paul restored him to life. The phrase “come up again” refers to Paul’s return to the upper room after this miracle.

Meaning

The expression “had broken bread, and eaten” points to the Lord’s Supper, the ordinance for which the community had gathered, though it may also include a common meal for bodily refreshment. The Greek word translated “eaten” can refer to an ordinary meal but is also suitable for the Eucharist. This act of breaking bread not only symbolized unity among believers but also served as a memorial of Christ’s sacrificial death and resurrection.

Paul then “talked a long while, even till break of day,” indicating that his teaching and discussion continued until dawn. This extended conversation reveals Paul’s earnest desire to impart final words of encouragement and exhortation to these believers, whom he knew he would not see again. The believers’ eagerness to receive instruction was so great that they continued through the night, prioritizing spiritual fellowship and teaching over physical rest.

Application

This passage encourages believers to value spiritual nourishment and teaching, even when it requires sacrifice of comfort or sleep. It also reminds us of the importance of earnest, extended fellowship in the body of Christ.

Reflection

Paul departed at daybreak to continue his missionary journey, entrusting these believers to God’s care. His example challenges us to make the most of every opportunity to teach, encourage, and be strengthened in the faith.