Bible Study - Acts 5: 1-16
- Read Acts chapter 5 verses 1-16
- Today's passage starts in stark contrast to yesterdays. Instead
of the exemplary generosity of Barnabas we get Ananias and Sapphira,
who we read, deliberately deceived the church. It is worth noting of
what sin they were guilty; it is not the fact they kept some of the
money, because as Peter points out it was their property and they could
do with it what they wanted. It is their deception in claiming the
money they gave to the church was all the money they had received for
their property.
- We may find this passage harsh and a little uncomfortable yet Peter
sees Satan at work with willing volunteers amongst the fellowship; how
could the early church have survived if this behaviour had been
tolerated and allowed to continue? This event caused "great fear" as
people may have realised that a commitment to Christ was not something
to be taken lightly.
- It is good that this negative spin on the church was included in
the scriptures as it shows, even at the earliest time during a period
of great spirituality and growth, there was still a mixture of good and
bad.
- Even so the early church continued to meet - very publicly at that.
It continued to grow and with an effective healing ministry. The church
exists to change lives and heal in all sorts of ways and will thrive
where lives are seen to be changed.
- Questions
- What is my attitude to those things I give to God (whether time,
money or skills)? Am I holding back in some way or am I totally
committed?
- Peter spoke clearly and forthrightly on this particular matter of
church discipline. Is it only the responsibility of the church leader
to maintain discipline or is it everyone's duty? Is turning a
"blind eye" an option?
- Are people's lives being changed because of the way I worship
and live my life? Are people's lives being changed because of the
way my local church worships and ministers to the locality?
- Prayer
- Father, help me to live my life in a way that is pleasing to you.
In my words and actions each day help me to show those people with whom
I come into contact that I am serious about my commitment to you.
Norbury Parish Church, Hazel Grove, Stockport, Cheshire. Telephone:
0161-483 8640