Not a Needy Person Among Them

Acts 4: 32-35 Now the whole group of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common. With great power the apostles gave their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. There was not a needy person among them, for as many as owned lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold. They laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need.

First Church Jerusalem should be the eternal model of all churches. The members were so devoted to God and Jesus Christ that the key verse is the very first one above: (They) were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common." Compare that to some churches where 1) Pews are "owned" every Sunday by those who "always sit here!" 2) Offices on committees are "owned" by those "who always have served in those positions."

Compare the next verse: This church gave testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. Some church members are afraid to talk a word about their faith, especially the resurrection of Jesus Christ. "Well, it was a faith event, anything could have happened to make them believe 'something' happened, but we're not really sure, are we?" Grace in many churches is the name of the lady who left to join the Baptists.

The verse that touches me: There was not a needy person among them, for as many owned lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold. They laid it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need." Do I really need to explain this in comparison to what really happens today?

The key is for us to truly give witness of this Easter message: Christ is Risen! Christ is Risen Indeed. If anything, find occasion to share that with someone in conversation. It's really not that hard to do, and it might just bring a blessing to someone who has never heard. And second thing; if you see someone in need, help them out! It may be a person in line at the grocery store and they don't seem to have enough money; it could be a child you see with old shoes; you know the drill! Serve the Risen Savior!

PRAYER: Loving God of the Resurrection, resurrect my heart and soul to be like those of the first disciples. Help me to live a life of resurrection. This I pray in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!

Eradio Valverde