Acts 4:35

and lay them at the apostles' feet for distribution to anyone as he had need.

Study Bible

and lay them
The act of laying something down, particularly at the feet of another, signifies an act of submission and trust. In the Greek, the word used here is "τίθημι" (tithēmi), which means to place or set. This action reflects the early Christian community's deep commitment to unity and mutual support. It symbolizes the relinquishing of personal ownership for the greater good of the community, a radical departure from the individualism prevalent in the surrounding Greco-Roman culture.

at the apostles’ feet
The phrase "at the apostles’ feet" indicates a position of humility and respect. In ancient times, sitting at someone's feet was a posture of learning and submission. The apostles, as the leaders and teachers of the early church, were entrusted with the responsibility of stewarding the community's resources. This act of laying resources at their feet underscores the trust and authority bestowed upon them by the early believers, reflecting the apostolic leadership's role in guiding the nascent church.

and it was distributed
The Greek word "διαδίδωμι" (diadidōmi) means to distribute or divide among. This distribution was not arbitrary but was carried out with intentionality and care. The early church's practice of distribution highlights the principle of stewardship and the importance of ensuring that resources were allocated according to need. This reflects the biblical principle of generosity and the call to care for one another, as seen in the teachings of Jesus and the Old Testament laws regarding provision for the poor and needy.

to each
The phrase "to each" emphasizes the inclusivity and equity of the distribution process. Every member of the community was considered, and no one was left out. This reflects the early church's commitment to the principle that all believers are equal in the eyes of God, a revolutionary concept in a society marked by social hierarchies and divisions.

as anyone had need
The phrase "as anyone had need" underscores the community's focus on meeting genuine needs rather than desires or wants. The Greek word for need, "χρεία" (chreia), implies necessity or requirement. This practice reflects the early church's commitment to living out the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized caring for the least among us. It also serves as a model for Christian stewardship and charity, reminding believers of the importance of discerning and addressing the true needs of others in a spirit of love and compassion.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Apostles
The leaders of the early Christian church, entrusted with the teachings of Jesus and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. They were responsible for the distribution of resources to those in need.

2. The Early Church
The community of believers in Jerusalem who shared their possessions and resources to ensure that no one among them was in need.

3. Jerusalem
The city where the early church was centered and where these events took place. It was the hub of early Christian activity and the location of significant events in the book of Acts.

4. Believers
The members of the early church who sold their possessions and laid the proceeds at the apostles' feet, demonstrating their commitment to communal living and care for one another.

5. Distribution
The act of allocating resources to those in need, a key function of the early church that demonstrated their unity and love for one another.

Teaching Points

Generosity and Stewardship
The early church exemplified radical generosity and stewardship. Believers are called to view their resources as tools for God's kingdom, sharing with those in need.

Unity in the Body of Christ
The practice of laying resources at the apostles' feet for distribution highlights the unity and mutual care within the body of Christ. Believers today are encouraged to foster unity through acts of love and support.

Trust in Leadership
The early believers trusted the apostles to distribute resources wisely. This teaches us the importance of trusting and supporting godly leadership in the church.

Meeting Needs as a Witness
The early church's care for one another served as a powerful witness to the surrounding community. Our acts of service and generosity can similarly testify to the love of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the practice of laying resources at the apostles' feet challenge our modern views on personal ownership and wealth?

2. In what ways can we, as a church community, ensure that the needs of our members are met, reflecting the unity of the early church?

3. How can we cultivate a spirit of generosity and trust in our church leadership, similar to the early believers?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that our acts of generosity serve as a witness to those outside the church?

5. How do the principles of giving and distribution in Acts 4:35 relate to the teachings of Jesus on wealth and possessions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 2:44-45
This passage describes the early believers having all things in common and selling their possessions to give to anyone in need, similar to the actions described in Acts 4:35.

2 Corinthians 8:13-15
Paul speaks about the principle of equality in giving, where those with abundance share with those in need, reflecting the practice of the early church.

James 2:15-17
James emphasizes the importance of faith being accompanied by action, particularly in providing for the physical needs of others, which aligns with the actions of the early church.