Disciples are required to renounce all they have and dedicate themselves completely to be worthy of following Jesus. [1] The possessions held in common by the early church led to disaster. [2] A man’s life consists not in abundance of material possessions, but in the joys of spiritual realities and eternal life. [3] The ancient belief that possessions are a spiritual handicap influenced European philosophy for centuries. [4]
God's gifts of eternal reality are bestowed upon those who consecrate their will to doing the Father's will, becoming more than they are as they approach God through love. [5]