⁴⁴ All the believers were together and had everything in common.^{(A) 45} They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.^(B)

³⁴ that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them,^(A) brought the money from the sales ³⁵ and put it at the apostles’ feet,^(B) and it was distributed to anyone who had need.^(C)

³⁶ Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas^(D) (which means “son of encouragement”), ³⁷ sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles’ feet.^(E)

The Collection for the Lord’s People

8 And now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian^(A) churches. ² In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity.^{(B) 3} For I testify that they gave as much as they were able,^(C) and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, ⁴ they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing^(D) in this service^(E) to the Lord’s people.^{(F) 5} And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us.