I don’t have a huge “bucket list,” but there are a few things I hope to experience on this side of eternity. My top ten includes watching the aurora borealis paint the sky directly above me, finally learning to ride a bike (yes, really), and hanging a mirror ball from my living room ceiling, much to my 12-year-old daughters’ dismay. An odd choice, sure, but it doesn’t surprise them in the least. I’m a shimmy-shaker from way, way back; honestly, I’ve always prioritized dancing at home. What I lack in skill I make up for in enthusiasm—again, much to my daughters’ dismay.
When I read Ananias and Sapphira’s story, I see enthusiasm, though for what is less clear. The husband and wife so wanted to be a part of the growing church that they sold their field and gave the earnings to the church—well, a portion of it. In theory, this is a very admirable act; one gospel-spreading Barnabas did the same (Acts 4:36–37). So, where did Ananias and Sapphira go wrong?
Sharing their resources is a good thing, and holding back some of the profits for themselves wouldn’t have been wrong, if they hadn’t promised it all. After seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit, the amount of money shared was at the discretion of the individual, so no one’s hand was forced. Peter says as much when confronting Ananias in his lie: “Wasn’t it yours while you possessed it? And after it was sold, wasn’t it at your disposal?” (Acts 5:4).
The lie was the thing; they were deceived by the enemy and agreed “to test the Spirit of the Lord” (v.9). Seeking the approval of their community, they told the apostles they’d given everything, while still holding back something for themselves. They tried to deceive God’s people, His church, who are the temple of the indwelling Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8;2:4;Ephesians 4:4–6). So in reality, the couple “lied [not] to people but to God” (Acts 5:4). Their offense, a bold lie, was an offense against God and God alone (Psalm 51:4). They valued the approval of others above obedience to their Holy God.
Jesus Himself cautioned, “No one can serve two masters…You cannot serve both God and money” (Matthew 6:24). Because He wants our wholehearted devotion, He values obedience and holiness. Ananias and Sapphira’s actions could’ve tainted the holiness of the early Church, leading people astray, but God would not allow it. He dealt with their sin, and a healthy, holy fear and reverence of the Lord was reaffirmed within His Church (Acts 5:11).
Our actions mirror and reflect what we value most, casting either shadow or light over our surroundings. So, it’s worth asking ourselves what we’re truly devoted to. Are we seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance and obeying Him, or do we seek the approval of others first? Honest answers can lead to much-needed change in our lives, drawing us closer to God and keeping Him first on our ever-shifting list of priorities.
Thanks Deepak for sharing the link to hymns. Congregations started singing together during the time of Acts. I listen to Albert Mohler podcasts and he said today is the 20th anniversary of the song “ In Christ Alone”. The Presbyterians wanted to change a verse in their hymnals from The Wrath of God was satisfied to The Love of God is magnified but the writers didn’t agree and used their copyright to preserve the words. The writers of the song said Jesus didn’t die for the love of God, He died to save us from our sins. Praying for everyone and adding requests to my prayer list. Peaceful blessings to all.
God’s reaction to this couple’s sin has always seemed drastic. I think maybe God was trying to make an example out of them.
So true
Sadly I can’t remember who commented this, but it spoke volumes. The power of a lie, the punishment of a lie. I hate lying and always have. There is no need for it. Have I done it, yes. My son went to a Christian school and I saw the influence of money. Those who gave a lot, got more. It was such a mistake on the schools part. We all recognized it. It was not christian behavior from the leaders. I struggled with this in the school and church. I had to finally tell myself, they are human. Just as I am and I make mistakes. The key is recognizing them and not continuing to make the same one over and over. I do believe the church needs to be careful. They need to be held accountable or the christian church could collapse. I pray that we all seek Him first. God’s approval over the approval of others.
I really appreciated the devotional and the comments today! This story always used to petrify me, making me wonder if I was giving enough. I can now see it’s not the amount, but the heart attitude of Ananias and Sapphira that was the problem. Brooke P I am continuing to pray for you.
♥️
Interestingly enough I find the correlation between ananias and sapphira’s “mistake” and the American Church today. There are too many churches out there that aren’t willing to speak the truth and help with all the issues that have been presented at our feet today. Our American churches need to be showing us how to navigate through these difficult times. But many have their heads in the sand unwilling to speak the truth, unwilling to show their people how best to deal with our struggles today. If the American Church doesn’t stand up and stop cowing to the numbers we will fail as Christians in the United states.
Whenever I read through this story in Acts, it makes me sad. Why did they have to lie, why couldn’t they be honest? One lie – yet the consequence was so costly! Their whole future life, gone in a split second because of a foolish decision. Although it’s sad, it is a good reminder that sin has consequences, and that nothing we do is hid from God. Not only are there consequences, but our sin effects those around us. Imagine their families who were left to grieve – maybe they had children, brothers, sisters, parents. When we sin, it’s like throwing a stone in the water – the stone sinks to the bottom but in hitting the water it creates ripples. The ripples of our sin effect those around us and sometimes it spreads far and wide.
Father God, please make me aware of Your ever presence. Help me to always tell the truth, even if it hurts. Let me be a light and example to those around me. Help me to walk in the Spirit so I will now fulfill the lust of the flesh. In Jesus name, Amen.
@Karen – praying for your daughter – how sad that this kind of thing happens even in Christian schools. Praying for you as well – I know your “mom heart” must be breaking.
@Ruth Long – praying you have greater self-control, that you will heed the Holy Spirit and will not be tempted to lie.
@Dorothy – praying for your aunt,cousin, and that God will place just the right book in your hands to help you be motivated and inspired!
Have a blessed weekend my SRT sisters!