Let Us Care For Each Other

There 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 Acts 4:34

When we think about the New Testament church, we tend to focus on its power and growth. In Acts 2, Peter preaches, and three thousand people come to believe in Jesus. In Acts 3, a paralyzed man who sat begging at the temple gate was healed through the ministry of Peter and John. In Acts 4, we read this: ‘Many of the people who heard their message believed it, so the number of men who believed now totaled about 5,000’ (v. 4). Preaching! Soul winning! Miracles! Growth! Exciting stuff.

But here is part of their story you must not miss: ‘All the believers were united in heart and mind. And they felt that what they owned was not their own, so they shared everything they had. The apostles testified powerfully to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God’s great blessing was upon them all. There were no needy people among them, because those who owned land or houses would sell them and bring the money to the apostles to give to those in need. For instance, there was Joseph, the one the apostles nicknamed Barnabas (which means “Son of Encouragement”). He was from the tribe of Levi and came from the island of Cyprus. He sold a field he owned and brought the money to the apostles’ (vv. 32-37).

Yes, our top priority must be showing people Jesus and bringing them into spiritual maturity. But if we are to follow in the footsteps of the New Testament church, we must remember that we are called to take care of each other too!

Prayer
Heavenly Father, keep me focused that I am called to care for others, no matter who they are, and to share and help in their needs. They can then see You. In the name of Jesus, Amen