Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5: 1-11)
We can learn much from those recorded in Bible, even “negative examples” in which we learn not to follow their mistakes; such are these two—both to the early church and today.
Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5: 1-11)
We can learn much from those recorded in Bible, even “negative examples” in which we learn not to follow their mistakes; such are these two—both to the early church and today.
- Don’t Allow The Sins Of Others To Derail You
- Their sin did not mean the church failed; it should not turn anyone away from following the truth. God’s design was still perfect; but it was made up of imperfect people.
- It was necessary for the sin to be addressed (cf. 1 Cor. 5:6); but once dealt with, it should cause the sinner and others to be more mindful of their actions and attitudes, which it did (v5, 11; 2 Cor. 2:7-8, 7:9-11).
- Watch Your Influences (both those who influence you and the influence you have on others)
- Sometimes those who should be a blessing to us, may be a curse. These two neither supported one another or the church in what was right. (cf. Gen. 2:18, 3:6)
- They followed each other into sin and could have encouraged others in such (1 Cor. 15:33; 2 Cor. 6:14).
- What of our influences; who are we watching and what are others seeing (2 Tim. 4:12; Phil. 1:27; 3:17; etc.)?
- Be Careful Of Your Motives
- It seems possible they wanted the honor that had been given to Barnabas (4:36-37) without paying the cost.
- If so they had a problem with pride (Prov. 16:18; Matt. 6:1-2), love (1 Cor. 13:1ff), and humility (Phil. 2:3-4; James 4:10). What drives us, vanity or love?
