The State of the Church (cf. Acts 2:42). The expression the multitude of the believers (about 5000 according to Acts 4:4) was one heart and soul, is proverbial for entire harmony. None took a selfish view of his property; all was common. The apostles fulfilled their commission of bearing witness to the Resurrection of Jesus (Acts 1:22; Acts 2:32) with great emphasis, and the community afforded an attractive spectacle. The prophecy of Deuteronomy 15:4 was fulfilled to them; this was the secret of their attractiveness; it was attained by the voluntary generosity of the rich members (Acts 2:44 f.), who sold their goods and made over to the apostles the price obtained, they dividing the proceeds to the needy.

Continues after advertising
Continues after advertising