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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.com | DownloadCambridge Greek Testament for Schools and Colleges - Acts 4:35 - 4:35
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35. παρὰ τοὺς πόδας. To lay a thing at, or under, any one’s feet was a significant act. Here it denoted that entire control was given to the Apostles over the bestowal of these sums. For the figure, cp. Psa 8:6, and Cicero pro Flacco (XXVII. § 68) ‘ante pedes prætoris in foro expensum est auri pondo centum paullo minus.’
διεδίδετο δὲ κ.τ.λ. Render, and distribution was made unto each according as any had need. There were no doubt many who were not in need, and they of course lived on their own. The distribution was intended only for the needy, as widows, &c., and for those who could not otherwise support themselves while they took part, as many did, in the active propagation of the new faith. It may be, too, that some were deprived of the means of support because they had become Christians. Cf. the threat of the authorities, Joh 9:22.