Episode 219: Inspired by the Book of Acts

Ananias and Saphira

As the new family of Jesus was being formed, men and women shared each other's burdens and resources, widows, and orphans were taken care of, and the bond of love between them all was growing. Unfortunately, even in this utopia greed worked its way into a few hearts. Ananias and his wife Saphira sold some property to look generous to others. But when they gave the money to the family of believers, they lied and kept some of the money back for themselves. They were behaving like the fig tree that showed leaves but bore no fruit. And just like that fig tree, they would die for their deception.

Acts 5:3

In yesterday’s episode, we heard of Peter and John’s boldness to preach the Gospel even when facing opposition and intimidation from the religious leaders of the day. God was working through them to grow his church, and because of their willingness to step out and obey God rather than human authority, thousands more came to faith in Christ. Today we’ll hear how sin continues to be present in the life of even the early Christians. We’ll see how God dealt swiftly with one couple’s deception as an example to others that God is still serious about sin.