1. Acts 4:34–35 (ESV)
  2. Application

Oversight and organization of funds

Acts 4:34–35 (ESV)

34 There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold

When it comes to the distribution of funds, we should also take careful notice of the early church practice. In giving the funds to the apostles, the church members are trusting a specific group of men (the apostles) to make wise decisions about how the funds are used. Though there is certainly room for church members to give and care for other members at an individual level, for the sake of ensuring that there is no exploitation or double giving, it makes a lot of sense to have a central fund which is under the oversight of a specific body. Today this work is normally done by the deacons. The deacons must report to the church about the use of funds (to be transparent) and ensure that no church member is in need. More details about their work is given in Acts 6:1–7.