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G1729 · Greek · New Testament
ἐνδεής
Endees
Adjective
Lacking, Needy, Destitute

Definition

The Greek adjective endees means lacking, needy, or destitute — describing a state of genuine insufficiency or want. It appears once in Acts 4:34 in a significant theological statement about the Jerusalem church.

Usage & Theological Significance

Endees appears in one of the most remarkable statements about the early church: 'There were no needy persons (endees) among them' (Acts 4:34). This is a direct echo of Deuteronomy 15:4 — 'there need be no poor people among you' — showing that the church was living the promised covenant community. The early disciples' voluntary sharing of resources was not Communist redistribution but Spirit-empowered generosity that fulfilled Torah's vision. The fact that Luke highlights the absence of endees persons emphasizes the supernatural character of this community: they had solved through love what economics alone cannot solve. The church at its best still aims at this vision — a community where genuine need is met by genuine generosity.

Key Bible Verses

Acts 4:34 There were no needy persons (endees) among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them.
Deuteronomy 15:4 However, there need be no poor people among you, for in the land the LORD your God is giving you to possess as your inheritance...
Philippians 4:19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
Acts 2:45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.
James 2:15-16 Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them 'Go in peace,' but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?

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