The last clause of 2.44 is a general statement, of which verse 45 is a more specific description. It may even be useful to introduce this verse by a transitional phrase, “that means” or “that is to say,” in which one indicates clearly that the preceding statement is explained by what follows. Otherwise, one might get the impression that the two clauses refer to different events. If there is to be a distinction made between the two words property and possessions, the first should be taken to refer to real estate and the second to personal property. These terms are collectively translated as “what they owned” or “what belonged to them.” They would sell … and distribute correctly carries out the force of the Greek verb tense, which indicates that this was an action that was carried on whenever the need arose, for example, “from time to time.” The fact that they could sell their goods is still further indication that the believers did not turn everything over to a community fund as may be suggested by some translations of verse 44.

Among all has reference to all believers who were in need.

Quoted with permission from Newman, Barclay M. and Nida, Eugene A. A Handbook on The Acts of the Apostles. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1972. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .