None of them lacked

“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.” - Acts 4v34-35

The 20^th century saw a great experiment in countries all over the world as the tried to implement Marx’ and Engels’ philosophy of communism. Edward Bellamy wrote a book in the late 19^th century called Looking Backward in which he saw a 21^st century at total peace and harmony because everyone shared everything in common. The movement caught fire and by the mid-century communism was a reality for about half of the world. Why did it not last? Because man has a sin nature and is ultimately selfish.

The early church, because they were believers committed to serve the Lord and allowed the Holy Spirit to control them, practiced what we might call “perfect communism.” They did not consider anything their own. When there was a need the sold off what they had to meet the needs of others. What impresses me here is their absolute disregard to have their own possessions. Why is it that our “stuff” is so important to us? Perhaps we need to re-evaluate our own concept of possessions. Could it be that the same sin nature which makes communism fail is keeping the body of Christ from doing what it could do?

One thing is clear – there should never be a need in the body of Christ!.