I can't write about Acts without highlighting one of the most intriguing parts, which is found early on--in Acts 2.   The day of Pentecost has come, Peter has preached his first sermon, and throngs of people come repenting and being baptized.  And then those famous words about how they devoted themselves to four things:  the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.  It seemed like a wonderful time for the church.  "Awe came upon everyone."  They sold their possessions and property and shared with one another so no one was in need.  This was the beginning of the "common purse" idea among the church. 

So I'm going to push us a little (and maybe get someone to respond!).  Was this just a phenomena for this group of believers at this time or is this a model of what the church should or could be?  Why don't we sell our property and possessions (read here our homes, IRAs, other middle-class trappings) so that it's all equally distributed to those in need in our community?  Of course there are some churches today who do share a common purse and try to uphold the ideals of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount and this description in Acts.  What do you think?  I'm not going to share my opinion....yet.   

I leave you with the entire passage from the end of chapter 2.   For more on sharing common property, refresh your memory with the end of Acts 4, verses 32-37 and the fate of Ananias and Sapphira.

"Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles.  All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need.  Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people.  And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved."