“And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.” (Acts 4:32) The multitude of those who believed had selfless hearts. They were of one heart and one soul. They loved each other. Thus they showed that they were Jesus’ disciples, for Jesus said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” (John 13:35)
These disciples of Jesus showed their love for one another by not being selfish with what they had. They did not consider “ought” or any of their possessions their own but considered them freely accessible to each other to use whenever they had need. Because these believers loved Christ, they had selfless hearts and loved each other.
What was the result of this selflessness and love for each other?
1. They had a good testimony and were able to witness to the lost with great power and grace.
“And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.” (Acts 4:33) When His workers have a good testimony and love for one another, God gives them great power and effectiveness in ministry. “For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.” (I Thessalonians 1:5)
2. No one lacked anything they needed. “34Neither 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, 35And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.” (Acts 4:34,35)
Everything was given to the Lord. The things that were given to the Lord were used to provide for those that had need. No one lacked.
Effective, powerful ministry and unity and love among the brethren come from selflessness. All is given to Jesus and nothing is considered to be one’s own.
There is no other way.