“And all that believed were together, and had all things common;”
All the believers were together and had everything in common — radical economic sharing (koina panta, all things common, shared property) characterizes the community of goods. This practice is motivated by eschatological expectation, Spirit-induced generosity, and theological unity (one heart, one soul). The sharing is not communism imposed but voluntary generosity flowing from shared faith.
Church Fathers on Acts 2:44
And all that believed were together, and had all things common. Acts 2:44 Consider what an advance was here immediately! For the fellowship was not only in prayers, nor in doctrine alone, but also in (πολιτεία) social relations. And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. See what fear was wrought in them! And they parted them, he says, showing the (τὸ οἰκονομικὸν) wise management: As every man had need. Not recklessly, like some…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS
Publish a reflection on this verse
No reflections on this verse yet. Be the first to write one!