Christianity vs. Americanity

by Stephen Rhoda

“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…” — Acts 4:34

Generosity and mutual support must mark the character of the church.  There must never be a member of the church who is homeless or without food and clothing.  Private ownership is yet mandated in such verses as this, but we must be willing and eager to pass along what we have to others when needed through the coordination of the leadership of the church.  The challenge to this call is the syncretism of “Americanity” by which we pursue only the “American dream,” putting our immediate luxury and a cush retirement ahead of Christ and His body, the church.  In the end, our detractors will always focus on our weaknesses and the church will never be perfect this side of heaven, but here is a mark of the Spirit of Christ that authenticates the church just as much as the signs and wonders of old.