Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need. And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet. But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession; And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet. But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? (Acts 4:34-37; 5:1-3)
Acts 4:34 is incredibly powerful and encouraging. The church was creating a culture of mutual respect and maturity where the believers were moved to care for one another with all their livelihood and heart. Luke wrote that those who owned land or property sold their possessions and laid the proceeds at the apostles' feet. This generosity ensured everyone’s needs were met, demonstrating a powerful expression of Christian love and unity. During this time, Barnabas, known as the "son of consolation," came forward to give a very generous donation. Most of the church celebrated his giving, but some became jealous and chose to deceive to get the same fame and applause as Barnabas.
Ananias and Sapphira sold a possession and acted like they were giving all the proceeds to the church but withheld a portion for themselves. Not giving the whole amount wasn’t a sin. God never demanded that. Their sin was trying to make their deception seem genuine and to fool the believers and God Himself. The consequences of their deception tell us the gravity of lying and falsehood.
Practical Application
Reflect on your own life and motives. Are there areas where you might be tempted to deceive or withhold the truth? Honesty is crucial in our relationship with God and others. Choose to let no lying heart be in you.