A dictionary of early Christian Beliefs / compiled and edited by David Bercot. 1998. Hendrickson Publisher, Inc. Peabody, Mass.

Fifth
Printing- November 2003. ISBN 1-56563-357-1

COMMUNITY OF GOODS (P. 171)

Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all,
as anyone had need. Acts 2:44,45.

Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was
his own, but they had all things in common. Acts 4:32

You will share all things with your neighbor. You will not call things your own. For if you are partakers in common of things that are
incorruptible, how much more [should you be] of those things which are incorruptible. Barnabas (c. 70-130 E), 1.148.

We who used to value above everything the acquisition of wealth and possessions, now bring everything into a common stock, and share
with everyone in need. Justin Martyr (c. 160, E), 1.167.

All things therefore are common, and not for the rich appropriate an undue share. Therefore, the expression, “I possess and possess in
abundance; why then should I not enjoy?” is suitable neither to the man, nor to society. But more worthy of love is this: “I have; why
should I not give to those who need?” … I know very well that God has given to us the liberty of use. But only so far as is necessary. And
he has determined the use should be common. For it is monstrous for one to live in luxury, while many are in need. Clement of
Alexandria (c. 195, E), 2.268.

[ADDRESSED TO PAGANS:] Family possessions, which usually destroy brotherhood among you, create fraternal bonds among us.
Being one in mind and soul, we do not hesitate to share our earthly goods with one another. All things are common among us, except our
wives. Tertullian (c. 197, W), 3.46

SEE ALSO ALMS, ALMSGIVING; CHRISTIAN LIFE.