Today, we shall examine what the Bible means by Believers being of one heart and of one soul.
So, let’s continue with our Book of Acts Bible Study. Our main reference is Acts 4:32-37.
“And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common”.
(Acts 4:32)
There are a few other references that explain the subject, but only one explicates “of one soul”. Let’s examine them.
“All these men of war, that could keep rank, came with a perfect heart to Hebron, to make David king over all Israel: and all the rest also of Israel were of one heart to make David king.”
(1 Chronicles 12:38)
Therefore, you will observe that the phrase “a perfect heart” and “of one heart” mean the identical thing: one accord (1 Chronicles 12:38 & Acts 4:32).
However, for many Believers to attain the status of oneness this must come from the Lord God. This is not the work of any mortal.
As a result, you will read: “Also in Judah the hand of God was to give them one heart to do the commandment of the king and of the princes, by the word of the Lord” (2 Chronicles 30:12).
So, here we see that oneness and unity come from heaven and how. This Scripture tells us that a perfect heart comes only “by the Word of the Lord” (2 Chronicles 30:12).
Consequently, the Lord Himself explains.
“And I will give them one heart, and one way, that they may fear me [forever], for the good of them, and of their children after them” (Jeremiah 32:39).
The Lord says, “I will make an everlasting covenant with them, that I will not turn away from them, to do them good; but I will put my fear in their hearts, that they shall not depart from me” (Jeremiah 32:40).
How to Attain to One Heart and of One Soul
Again, the Lord God promised to unite His people. His Spirit shall do the work.
“And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh” (Ezekiel 11:19).
That they may walk in my statutes, and keep mine ordinances, and do them: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God.
But as for them whose heart walketh after the heart of their detestable things and their abominations, I will recompense their way upon their own heads, saith the Lord God” (Ezekiel 11:19-21).
All Believers Having One Mind to Do One Thing
Similarly, “of one soul” by itself doesn’t mean much. There is no scriptural reference to explain it.
However, “of one heart” or “a perfect heart” and “of one soul”, mean of one accord. This means that all Believers having one mind to do one thing.
Believers have demonstrated a practical application of this concept. Especially Believers who were added to the Church at Pentecost and those in the days immediately after Pentecost. We see it at work in the verse of Scripture immediately below.
This is a Demonstration of One Heart
“Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold“
Acts 4:34
And laid them down at the apostles’ feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.”
(Acts 4:34-35)
This is a demonstration of a perfect heart. All the disciples were of one accord to the extent that everyone sold all their possessions and gave all the proceeds to the Twelve Apostles.
Then when any Believer has a need, the Apostles would take from that pool of funds to provide for that person.
Here is another example of the demonstration of this perfect heart.
“And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus
Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet” (Acts 4:36-7).
Conclusion
Anytime two or more persons are of one heart and of one soul, nothing is impossible for them. They are unstoppable. Heaven approves and facilitates their actions.
Of course, these include married couples; a family, a team, an assembly, or a nation.
“And the Lord said, Behold, the people is one, …and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do” (Genesis 11:6).
On the other hand, a divided group of persons is weak. Failure, destruction, pain, and loss are inevitable for them.
However, the result is an awesome show of power. And our Adversary opposes any move people make to unite. Togetherness is strong.
A perfect heart is fixed. It will not change. A people of one heart is a nation with its heart fixed on Jesus Christ. The Devil hates this.
What is as powerful as two persons operating as one? How about a group of people acting together as one? How about a family, or an assembly (a church) or even a nation? This is power! They are powerful!
Recall, though that the one must hear, believe, and practice the Word of God to attain to one heart and of one soul (mind).
The First Century Church is a model for the contemporary one. It operated as a unit. They were all of the same mind.
The Lord Jesus Christ wants to provide for our material needs via our local assembly. However, all Believers must hear, receive, and believe the Word of God taught to them.
Consequently, anytime this happens look out for demonic manifestations. The aim is to prevent having a perfect heart with others. Be watchful.
Finally, the Bible didn’t say one heart and soul. It clearly states of one heart and of one soul. There is a difference. Let’s say what the Word says.
Leroy A. Daley is an author, blogger, YouTuber, and Bible teacher. Globally, he's helped hundreds of Christians understand the Bible better. He has been studying and teaching the Bible for more than forty years. He is passionate about the Lord and spends quality time with the Word of God every day.
His Books are available for purchase wherever books are sold.
