Acts 2:43-45

A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need.

In his Pentecost day sermon, Peter referred to the fact that in his earthly life Jesus did “powerful miracles, wonders and signs” (v22). Now the apostles, empowered by the Holy Spirit, were able to continue Jesus’ ministry as they also performed miraculous signs and wonders. It’s no wonder that there was a deep sense of awe as people saw God working in power among people they had previously known only as fishermen.

At the same time, the fledgling Christian community adopted a new way of looking at their possessions. They shared all that they owned in order to support one another. This was all done voluntarily and shows the depth of commitment that they had for one another. It has never been a rule that Christians must pool all their money, property and possessions, but loving God inevitably causes us to look at all resources with new eyes. One day we will have to give an account of the way in which we have used our resources.

This might sound very restricting, but it is actually the complete opposite. Possessions can so easily dominate our lives and become our master.

The materialistic society in which we live continually tries to peddle the lie that we will find fulfilment in life through possessing more and more things. But the truth is that the only way to find such life and liberty is through recognising that everything we possess has come from God’s hands, and is to be used to give glory to him. When we build up our resources for our own selfish use, we are creating something that will last for a short while and then disappear. But when we use our possessions to strengthen God’s kingdom we are building for eternity.

Question

How good a steward are you of the resources that God has given you?

Prayer

Loving God, thank you for everything that you have given me. Help me to use it all to your glory. Amen