Friday, November 11, 2022

The Early Christians on Community of Goods

Barnabas, c. A.D. 70-130
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 corruptible.

Justin Martyr, c. A.D. 160
We who used to value above everything the acquisition of wealth and possessions, now bring what we have into a common stock, and share with everyone in need.

Clement of Alexandria, c. A.D. 195
All things therefore are common, and not for the rich to 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 that the use should be common. For it is monstrous for one to live in luxury, while many are in need.

Tertullian, c. A.D. 197
[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.