(Greek Church; 150-215)
I know that God has given us the use of goods, but only as far as is necessary; and He has determined that the use be common. It is absurd and disgraceful for one to live magnificently and luxuriously when so many are hungry.
By Tertullian
(Earliest of the Latin fathers; 155-222)
All is common with us except women. Jesus was our man, God and brother. He restored unto all men what cruel murderers took from them by the sword. Christians have no master and no Christian shall be bound for bread and raiment. The land is no man’s inheritance; none shall possess it as property.
By St. Cyprian
(Latin; 200-258)
No man shall be received into our commune who sayeth that the land may be sold. God’s footstool is not property.
By St. Basil
(Greek Church; 329-379)