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things in common” (shared everything they had); they witnessed “with great power”;
and “great grace was upon them all.” All of these glorious things took place through the
unleashing of the power of the Holy Spirit in response to the corporate prayers of God’s
people crying out to him together (verse 24).

POSSESSIONS POOLED (34-37)

Many of these first believers sold their land or homes so distribution could be made toward
those in need, especially the widows. This giving was strictly voluntary on the part of the
people. No one coerced them into doing so.

Act 4:34 Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of
lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold,

The same thing will happen twice in the next chapter. Barnabas is one individual who will sell
his land to give to the gospel and be blessed. He will be truthful with the people and the Holy
Spirit. Ananias and Sapphira, however, will lie and receive judgment.

Act 4:35 And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man
according as he had need.

The giving of possessions is voluntary, and the people are free to participate or not participate.
Many choose to pool their possessions, property, and finances because if they don’t “own”
anything, the government can’t take it away. Part of the group who receives benefit from the
common collection is the widows (6:1). The pooling of resources does not produce power, but
it is an outward sign of the unity which the disciples already possess.

Act 4:36 And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted,
The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,

And Joses (Joseph), who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted,
The son of consolation), a Levite, and I’ll the country of Cyprus,

This is the beginning of the ministry of Barnabas:

1. He later became a prophet and teacher (13:1; 14:14).
2. He introduces Paul to the other apostles (9:25-27).
3. He began the church at Antioch (11:22-23).
4. He sent for Paul to teach the congregation (11:25-26).
5. He eventually became a pastor at Antioch will and missed God through legalism
(Galatians 2:13).
6. He finally became reconciled to Paul (1 Corinthians 9:6).

Act 4:37 Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet.