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Scott's Reference Library
Acts 4:32 through Acts 4:35 (NIV)
32All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of
his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had. 33With great
power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus,
and much grace was upon them all. 34There were no needy persons among them. For
from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money
from the sales 35and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to
anyone as he had need.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible
VERSES 32-37
The disciples loved one another. This was the blessed fruit of Christ’s dying
precept to his disciples, and his dying prayer for them. Thus it was then, and
it will be so again, when the Spirit shall be poured upon us from on high. The
doctrine preached was the resurrection of Christ; a matter of fact, which being
duly explained, was a summary of all the duties, privileges, and comforts of
Christians. There were evident fruits of Christ’s grace in all they said and
did. They were dead to this world. This was a great evidence of the grace of God
in them. They did not take away others’ property, but they were indifferent to
it. They did not call it their own; because they had, in affection, forsaken all
for Christ, and were expecting to be stripped of all for cleaving to him. No
marvel that they were of one heart and soul, when they sat so loose to the
wealth of this world. In effect, they had all things common; for there was not
any among them who lacked, care was taken for their supply. The money was laid
at the apostles’ feet. Great care ought to be taken in the distribution of
public charity, that it be given to such as have need, such as are not able to
procure a maintenance for themselves; those who are reduced to want for
well-doing, and for the testimony of a good conscience, ought to be provided
for. Here is one in particular mentioned, remarkable for this generous charity;
it was Barnabas. As one designed to be a preacher of the gospel, he disentangled
himself from the affairs of this life. When such dispositions prevail, and are
exercised according to the circumstances of the times, the testimony will have
very great power upon others.