Acts 5:1-11: But a man named Ananias, with his wife Sapphira, sold a piece of property, 2 and with his wife’s knowledge he kept back for himself some of the proceeds and brought only a part of it and laid it at the apostles’ feet. 3 But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back for yourself part of the proceeds of the land? 4 While it remained unsold, did it not remain your own? And after it was sold, was it not at your disposal? Why is it that you have contrived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to man but to God.” 5 When Ananias heard these words, he fell down and breathed his last. And great fear came upon all who heard of it. 6 The young men rose and wrapped him up and carried him out and buried him.
7 After an interval of about three hours his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8 And Peter said to her, “Tell me whether you sold the land for so much.” And she said, “Yes, for so much.” 9 But Peter said to her, “How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Behold, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.” 10 Immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. When the young men came in they found her dead, and they carried her out and buried her beside her husband. 11 And great fear came upon the whole church and upon all who heard of these things.
Sin offers a false
Sin is always
God
Sin always has
Because of our
we should
God
Further Reading
Proverbs 1:7
Proverbs 9:10
Matthew 10:28
Psalm 51:3–4
Acts 2:42–47
Application To Consider:
Recognize the Deception of Sin – Be mindful that sin promises fulfillment but ultimately leads to emptiness. Understanding this can help in resisting temptation.
Practice Humility in Judgment – Instead of harshly condemning others like Ananias and Sapphira, reflect on personal shortcomings and recognize that everyone struggles with sin.
Be Honest About Motivations – Acknowledge that sin often stems from a desire for approval, status, or affirmation. Identifying these underlying motives can lead to repentance and realignment with truth.
Guard Against False Identity – Realize that every sinful action distorts one’s perception of righteousness. Strive for authenticity and a genuine relationship with God rather than external validation.
Commit to Integrity in Speech – Since lies are often told to enhance one’s image, commit to honesty even when the truth is uncomfortable.
Confront Idolatry – Identify moments when personal desires dictate choices rather than God’s truth. Make intentional efforts to surrender self-made ideologies and trust in God’s sovereignty.
Pursue God’s Original Intent – Be aware that sin corrupts what God intended for good. Strive for genuine godliness, not just an appearance of righteousness without true surrender.
Live Transparently and Missionally – Instead of hiding in fear of exposure, embrace God’s grace and live in the fullness of His purpose, free from the weight of sin.