Turn with me to Acts chapter 20. Today, I want to discuss a remarkable Sunday at Troas, filled with events that hold great lessons for us. Troas, an important seaport founded by a successor of Alexander the Great before 300 BC, is located about 10 miles south of Troy and was a Roman colony. Paul visited Troas multiple times during his missionary journeys. On his second journey, he was joined by Luke there (Acts 16:8, 11). On his third journey, Paul left Ephesus and went to Troas (Acts 20:1) and then revisited it after leaving Philippi (Acts 20:6). It was during this third visit that Luke describes an eventful Sunday at Troas.

Let’s begin with Acts 20:7. On the first day of the week, the disciples gathered to break bread. Paul, ready to depart the next day, spoke to them until midnight. In the upper room, where many lamps were lit, a young man named Eutychus sat by a window, sinking into a deep sleep. As Paul continued speaking, Eutychus fell from the third story and was taken up dead. But Paul went down, embraced him, and revived him. Paul then continued speaking until daybreak before departing.

From this event, we learn several important things. First, the disciples gathered on the first day of the week. This aligns with the resurrection of Jesus, which occurred on the first day of the week (Matthew 28:1). The early church began on this day (Acts 2:1-47), and Paul instructed the church in Corinth to lay by in store on this day (1 Corinthians 16:1-2). In Revelation 1:10, John refers to it as the Lord’s Day. Thus, the disciples gathered to break bread on the first day of the week, a practice rooted in Jesus’ institution of the Lord’s Supper (Luke 22:19-20, Acts 2:42, Acts 20:7, 1 Corinthians 10:16-17).

Observing the Lord’s Supper was central to their gathering. It reminded them of Jesus’ sacrifice as the perfect lamb. Early church history shows that Christians assembled weekly for this memorial meal.

Paul, a special guest speaker, was present along with eight others (Acts 20:4-6). Despite his imminent departure, Paul spoke until midnight, emphasizing the importance of a firm foundation in Christ. Although the exact topic of his sermon isn’t detailed, it likely included teachings on the gospel (Romans 1:14-17), living a true Christian life (1 Thessalonians 4:1-3), and enduring persecution (Acts 14:21-22).

Paul’s long sermon highlights his dedication. He spoke until midnight, took a break, and continued until daybreak. The attendees experienced a special treat, not just listening to Paul but also witnessing the miraculous revival of Eutychus.

Eutychus, a young man likely tired from a day’s work, fell asleep and plummeted from the window. Paul’s response was immediate and compassionate. He embraced Eutychus, declaring life in him, and continued his ministry undeterred.

This account teaches us about the early church’s devotion to gathering and worshiping on the first day of the week. We see the importance of breaking bread, teaching, singing, praying, and giving—elements of worship commanded in Scripture. The event at Troas, especially the revival of Eutychus, is a powerful reminder of the early Christians’ faith and commitment.

Stay alert and engaged in the service, remembering the dedication and miraculous events that characterized the early church.