
“All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.” Acts 2:44-45 (NIV)
No one sacrificed like the early church. In Acts 2:44-45, the Bible says, “All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need” (NIV).
These early Christians didn’t just give their money. They were generous with everything they had. When they saw a need, they did whatever they had to do to meet it—and at their own expense. There was a spirit among them of awareness and concern that led to selfless and sacrificial generosity. You could say they were radically generous.
And they didn’t give grudgingly. The Bible also says, “They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved” (Acts 2:46-47 NIV).
People noticed this radical way of living, of freely giving to meet the needs of others. The joy the early church found in generous giving drew many more people into God’s family.
What would happen through our churches today if we were just as radically generous? The Bible says we’re stewards—or managers—of all that God has given us. We’re responsible to use our resources in a way that impacts the kingdom.
God doesn’t just give you resources for your own enjoyment. He wants you to make a difference in the world around you. God never blesses us just so we can take care of ourselves. He blesses us so we can bless others.
That’s a hopeful and encouraging truth to remember all year long, because generosity isn’t something we only display at Thanksgiving or Christmas. It’s a way of life, and it’s even more impactful when the church practices it together.
Find ways to be radically generous so you can make an eternal impact on the people in your church, in your community, and in the circles where God has placed you.
How would your life change if you became more radically generous? What would that look like?
When you struggle with generosity, what things make you hesitant to give more?
Based on the truth that God blesses us so we can bless others, what is one practical step you can take this week to be obedient to God?
