Having All Things In Common

"Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved." Acts 2:44-47

It is to be made clear that these phrases "had all things in common" and "sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all" is not at all an argument or justification for socialism or communism. This activity by the followers of Jesus is voluntary and charitable, which is completely opposite of socialism and communism.

Why the disciples would sell their goods and possessions relates directly to their faith in the words of Christ. Jesus told them that Jerusalem was going to be sacked within a generation, and the temple would be completely destroyed. Matthew 24:2, 34.

He also told them to flee to the hills when they saw Jerusalem surrounded by armies (Luke 21:20,21). Now, if you knew for certain that the city where you lived would be sacked and destroyed, and you would be a refugee, it would only make sense to sell your goods, lighten your load, and be ready to flee at a moment's notice.

It is an historical fact that Jerusalem was sacked in 70 A.D., the temple was destroyed, and many or most of the Christians did flee to the hills when the city was surrounded by the Roman armies.

DR