Another action that set the early believers apart from their culture was their generosity.  According to Acts 2:44-45 they "shared everything.   ⁴⁴And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. ⁴⁵They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. 

As I mentioned in Sunday's message, some biblical scholars assume that since Christians don't do this any longer that Acts 2:44-45 records Christianity's failed attempt at communism.  Actually, it records Christianity's successful attempt at investing in one another in a way that turned out to be magnetic to their neighbors. When folks saw people giving up everything in order to bless others, and especially when they started being on the receiving end of that kind of devotion, they saw the true nature of the heart change that takes place when Jesus takes first place in a person's life.

Today, possessions are our culture's sign of success.  To give them away to benefit others is seen by some as altruism, but by others as naivete.  The fact is when believers invest in one another, meeting needs in the name of Jesus, others may not understand it at first, but when it's done consistently over time, eventually folks see what is at the heart of that activity--God.  We don't have to go sell everything and share it with others (unless God tells us to do so!), but we do need to let God change our hearts so sharing is our norm, and not an occasional part of our lives.  As we do, the testimony that makes to others, will be powerful.

Let's pray:  Heavenly Father, Thank You so much for giving us everything we need.  Fill us with Your Holy Spirit so we may also have the same spirit of generosity, and invest in others' lives to meet their needs and glorify You.  This we pray in Jesus' name.  Amen.