Socialism is a political and economic philosophy that advocates community ownership and distribution of resources, typically controlled by the governing authorities. Does Acts 4:32-35 provide an example of socialism practiced in the early church, and does it set a precedent for all Christians to follow? The passage reads:
Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all. Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need. (NKJV)
Contextually, multiplied thousands of Jewish people from distant lands had traveled to Jerusalem to celebrate Pentecost (Acts 2:1, 5), a large percentage of whom had learned and obeyed the Gospel to mark the beginning of Christ’s church (vs. 41, 47; 4:4; 5:14). Rather than returning home, however, many remained in Jerusalem for continued instruction and fellowship (2:42), perhaps some until they were later forced to disperse (8:1-4).
In the meantime, how were their physical needs to be met? A community spirit prevailed, coordinated first by the apostles and then by other godly men, which included selfless generosity and mutual sharing (2:44-45; 4:32-33; 6:1-3). This was a unique situation not necessarily applicable to more normal living conditions.
The Scriptures teach a balanced message of bearing one another’s burdens [when they cannot bear them alone] (Galatians 6:2), while each is to bear his own load [ordinarily] (v. 5). Accountable, able-bodied persons are expected to work and not to be unnecessary burdens on others. God expects people to provide for themselves (2 Thessalonians 3:7-13) and for their families (1 Timothy 5:8), while also helping the needy (Ephesians 4:28). The economic model of socialism, however, is not biblically enjoined.
[Editor’s Note: The contrasts between Christian fellowship wherein Christians voluntarily share their wealth and resources with less fortunate brethren and socialism are distinct. Socialism involves anti-Christian tenets: (1) ‘an economic and political theory advocating collective or government ownership and the dismissal of private ownership,’ (2) “a stage of society in Marxist theory transitional between capitalism and communism and distinguished by unequal distribution of goods and pay according to work done” (“Socialism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary. 9 Jun 2022 <https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/socialism>). Voluntary contrasts with involuntary. Christianity is neither an economic program nor a political party. Private ownership differs from complete public ownership. Charitable distribution and involuntary surrender of property are opposites. The early church neither practiced socialism nor communism. ~ Louis Rushmore, Editor]
