ACTS 20:7–12
THE BREAKING OF THE BREAD AT TROAS AND THE RAISING OF EUTYCHUS
Text – Acts 20:7–12
7 On the first day of the week, when we gathered to break bread, Paul spoke to them, since he was going to depart the next day, and he continued speaking until midnight.
8 There were many lamps in the upstairs room where we were gathered,
9 and a young man named Eutychus was sitting at the window. He sank into a deep sleep as Paul talked on and on, and he fell down from the third story and was picked up dead.
10 Paul went down, threw himself upon him, and embraced him, and said, “Do not be disturbed, for his life is in him.”
11 Then he went back upstairs, broke the bread, and ate; and after speaking further until dawn, he left.
12 And they took the boy away alive and were immeasurably comforted.
Historical and Jewish Context
The “first day of the week” reflects the early Christian practice of gathering on Sunday in remembrance of the Resurrection. “Breaking bread” was the recognized term for the Eucharistic celebration. Evening assemblies were common due to daily labor obligations. Oil lamps were typical of ancient indoor settings and contributed to the heat and drowsiness. The act of embracing the dead recalls prophetic gestures of Elijah and Elisha, grounding Paul’s action in biblical tradition.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This passage offers a vivid glimpse into early Christian worship centered on the Eucharist and the Word. The miracle affirms God’s life-giving power active within the Church. Paul’s insistence on continuing the breaking of the bread even after the dramatic event highlights the primacy of the Eucharist. The restoration of Eutychus signifies that the Church, nourished by the Eucharist, is a community of life, consolation, and hope.
Parallels in Scripture
1 Kings 17:17–24 – Elijah raises the widow’s son
2 Kings 4:32–35 – Elisha raises the Shunammite’s son
Luke 24:30–35 – Recognition of the Lord in the breaking of the bread
John 11:25 – Christ as the resurrection and the life
Acts 2:42 – Breaking of bread and fellowship
Key Terms
First day of the week – Sunday, day of the Resurrection
Breaking of the bread – Eucharistic celebration
Midnight – Perseverance in teaching
Embraced him – Life-restoring action
Life is in him – God’s power over death
Comforted – Pastoral fruit of faith
Catholic Liturgical Significance
Acts 20:7–12 is proclaimed during the Easter Season, affirming Sunday worship, the centrality of the Eucharist, and Christ’s victory over death present in the Church.
Conclusion
Acts 20:7–12 reveals a Church gathered around Word and Sacrament, where God’s life triumphs over death. In the Eucharist and communal faith, believers find strength, restoration, and deep consolation.
Reflection
Do I recognize the central place of Sunday Eucharist in my life?
How attentive am I to God’s word within the community?
Do I trust in Christ’s power to bring life where there is weakness?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, present among us in the breaking of the bread, strengthen my faith and awaken my heart to Your life-giving presence. Renew me through Your Word and Sacrament, and fill me with the comfort and hope that come from You alone. Amen.