To the Ends of the Earth: Devotions in Acts Part 1Näide

Day 5 | Acts 5: Ananias and Sapphira, Apostolic Signs and Wonders

Acts 5 presents a sobering account of Ananias and Sapphira, who lie about their offering and face severe consequences. This story underscores the importance of integrity and honesty within the community of believers. The early church is marked by a deep sense of awe and fear of the Lord, recognising the seriousness of sin.

Despite this sobering event, the apostles continue to perform signs and wonders, and the church grows. The high priest and Sadducees, filled with jealousy, arrest the apostles, but an angel of the Lord frees them, instructing them to continue preaching. This chapter highlights the tension between the growing church and the religious authorities, as well as the unwavering commitment of the apostles to their mission.

The story of Ananias and Sapphira also serves as a reminder of the holiness of God and the call to live lives that honour Him. Their actions reveal the danger of hypocrisy and the importance of being truthful and transparent in our relationships with God and others. It challenges us to examine our own lives and to seek God's forgiveness and grace in areas where we may have fallen short. The early church's commitment to holiness and integrity is a powerful example for us to follow.

The Big Idea

A key point of Acts 5 is the call to integrity and the power of God at work in the church. The story of Ananias and Sapphira serves as a warning about the seriousness of sin, while the apostles' continued ministry demonstrates God's power and faithfulness.

Consider

Reflect on your own life and community. Are there areas where you need to seek forgiveness or restore integrity? Pray for a heart that honours God in all things and for a community that reflects His love and holiness. Ask God to help you live with integrity and to be a faithful steward of His gifts, trusting that He will empower you to overcome challenges.

An Interesting Note

The early church was characterised by a communal lifestyle, where believers shared their possessions and resources to meet each other's needs. This practice was a radical departure from the individualistic culture of the time and demonstrated the transformative power of the gospel in creating a new kind of community. The story of Ananias and Sapphira highlights the importance of honesty and integrity within this communal setting.

This devotion is based on the Bible Streams Podcast series on Acts.