Having all things in common....

“And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and prayers, and awe came upon every soul, and many signs were being done through the apostles, And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people, And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.” –Act 2: 42-47
The early church had something going right of them. They were growing rapidly, and seemed unrestricted in their amount of growth. How was this so? Quick highlights:
1. They were devoted to discipleship.
2. Fellowship was important to the early church.
3. They were willing to make a sacrifice to help those in need.
4. Their fellowship was a daily activity.
5. They were appreciative of the necessities that God had provided them.
6. They had a good reputation within the community as people and believers.
7. Praising God was an important part of their life.
The life of the early Christians did not focus around the physical life here but the life that was to come. They lived each day as if it was their last, and reminded themselves that they were not alone in this struggle by surrounding themselves with other believers. They cut out the frivolous things in life, and simplified to the things that were truly important: strong faith, a tongue of praise, a prayer of thanks, good food, and good company. The critical part is that they were willing to share this with others. We often believe the luxuries of modern life are the necessities that we need, and we have an unwillingness to share the simple things of life with others. The challenge is for us to rid our life of luxuries, and look for the simplicity that the early church lived.