THe error of Community was first maintained by the Heathen,* 1.1 for Plato held that all things ought to be common; the same also was held by the Hereticks called Apostoloci, and attri∣buted* 1.2 in those dayes to them under the notion of Annabap∣tists, which particular I cannot beleeve of them; but if in case any of them be of that judgement, I hope these reasons following will convince them of that error.
Obj. The Apostles had all things common at Jerusalem, Act. 2. 44. &c. ergo.
Ans. That custome then was easie, because they were few, and necessary, for if they had not sold their possessions, and so made the common use, they by violence should have been strip∣ped of them; but now there is neither the like facility, or necessity.
2. That community was voluntary, not imposed upon any, for it was in their choyces whether they would sell their possessions or not, as Peter said to Annanias, Act. 5. 4. After it was sold, was it not in thy owne power, &c.
3. Neither were all things common amongst them, they had some things private and peculiar to themselves, as Mary had her proper house and dwelling in the City, Act. 12. 12.
4. This was not the generall custome of the whole Church, for in Achaia and Macedonia, there was gatherings made, for the Saints at Jerusalem, it was then particular for that place, and peculiar for that time; and therefore a generall rule for all times and places cannot be taken from hence.