Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all. Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need. (NKJV)
Contextually, multiplied thousands of Jewish people from distant lands had travelled to Jerusalem to celebrate Pentecost (Acts 2:1, 5), a large percentage of whom had learned and obeyed the gospel to mark the beginning of Christ’s church (vv. 41, 47; 4:4; 5:14). Rather than returning home, however, they remained in Jerusalem for continued instruction and fellowship (2:42) until they were later forced to disperse (8:1-4).
In the meantime, how were their physical needs to be met? A community spirit prevailed, coordinated first by the apostles and then by other godly men, that included selfless generosity and mutual sharing (2:44-45; 4:32-33; 6:1-3). This was a unique situation not necessarily applicable to more normal living conditions.
The scriptures teach a balanced message of bearing one another’s burdens (Gal. 6:2), while each is to bear his own load (v. 5). Accountable, able-bodied persons are expected to work, not be an unnecessary burden on others, and provide for themselves (2 Thess. 3:7-13) and for their families (1 Tim. 5:8), while also helping the needy (Eph. 4:28). But the economic model of socialism is not biblically enjoined.
--Kevin L. Moore
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