As this new community of believers continues to grow, they commit all that they own to each other, bringing their possessions and money to the apostles to be shared with those in need.
When Ananias and Sapphira withhold some of their contribution, Peter calls them out for lying about it. They both fall down and die instantly. As the apostles continue their journey, many are healed by their presence. Religious leaders step in again, arresting them. An angel of the Lord releases them from prison, and the apostles again preach in front of the people. The leaders conclude it is best to punish them briefly and then let them be, for the apostles are either truly with God, or their message will dwindle away.
Ananias and Sapphira chose to rely on themselves instead of God. The punishment for this, as it always is for any sin, is death. We are all subject to the same fate. Jesus mercifully and graciously spares us from this fate when we commit ourselves to Him. As Peter and the apostles pass through town, the mere touch of their shadows has healing powers. That’s how much power faith in God carries.
Acts 5:41-42 “So they went on their way from the presence of the Council, rejoicing that they had been considered worthy to suffer shame for His name. And every day, in the temple and from house to house, they kept right on teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.”
Living your life for God will bring blessings upon you and those around you. Rejoice for suffering in His name, knowing He did the same in suffering for us.
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