What’s Mine is Yours

³² And the congregation of those who believed were of one heart and soul; and not one of them claimed that anything belonging to him was his own, but all things were common property to them. ³³ And with great power the apostles were giving testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and abundant grace was upon them all. ³⁴ For there was not a needy person among them, for all who were owners of land or houses would sell them and bring the proceeds of the sales ³⁵ and lay them at the apostles’ feet, and they would be distributed to each as any had need. ³⁶ Now Joseph, a Levite of Cyprian birth, who was also called Barnabas by the apostles (which translated means Son of Encouragement), ³⁷ and who owned a tract of land, sold it and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet. (Acts 4:32–37 NASB95)

The true church follows the pattern set forth in the Scriptures for our worship and behavior when gathered and separated. If we claim to be the New Testament Church, this is one passage that cannot be overlooked. The true church has an unmistakable attitude towards physical possessions: what’s mine is yours if you have need of it. Notice in verse 32, “not one of them claimed that anything belonging to him was his own, but all things were common property to them.” Everyone was willing to share and sacrifice for the good of all. None were forced, but all were willing to give to those who had a need.

In all of our earthly dealings, we should recognize where the greatest good can be done. When one has a need in the church, we ought to serve that need with the resources God has given us (1 Timothy 6:17-19). That doesn’t mean we have to sell everything we have so that someone can have a bowl of soup, but it does mean we should use what we do have for their needs. If a brother or sister loses their house, give them a home within your doors. If the need is smaller, like food or water or clothing, give to them as generously as you can, and expect nothing in return (Luke 14:12-14). The reward we receive from God is greater than any reward a man could repay us.

Our nation is going through a difficult time right now, when the government is unstable and workers are constantly losing employment from various jobs. In these times of great need, we, God’s people, have a great opportunity to serve the needs of others, and especially those of the household of God (Galatians 6:9-10). If you haven’t recently, take a moment to look around you and see who is in need, and take a break from your busy schedule to serve that need. If they are a fellow Christian, encourage them to keep walking in the light. If they are a lost soul, let them know the gospel offers hope to all who will obey it, and that the family of God will welcome them if they will follow the Scriptures. In times of great distress, opportunities to serve abound. Don’t miss yours!