MAIN FEATURES OF COMMUNAL LIFE OF THE EARLY CHURCH (ACTS 2:41-47, 4:32-37)

Following the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, the early Church at Jerusalem lived a remarkable common life. Its main features were:

• Devotion to the apostles' teaching. The believers continued steadfastly in the doctrine passed on by the apostles.
• Fellowship (koinonia). They shared a deep sense of brotherhood and unity, being of one heart and one soul.
• Breaking of bread. They broke bread together from house to house, eating with glad and generous hearts, including the fellowship meal and the Lord's Supper.
• Prayers. They devoted themselves to constant prayer, both in the temple and in their homes.
• Sharing of property in common. They had all things in common; those who owned lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds to the apostles.
• Distribution according to need. The money was distributed to each as any had need, so that there was no needy person among them (for example, Barnabas sold a field and laid the money at the apostles' feet).
• Signs and wonders. Many wonders and signs were done through the apostles, and awe came upon everyone.
• Regular worship in the temple. They attended the temple together daily with one accord.
• Joy and sincerity of heart. They ate their food with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God.
• Favour with the people and daily growth. They had favour with all the people, and the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.