A caring congregation is a strong congregation, for there is dynamic energy in the genuine expression of Gods love. Acts 5:1-11 They were more interested in appearances than in reality. If you find yourself less concerned about your actions and time spent with God, consider that you may have missed out on the message of Jesus sacrifice for you. But I still felt so guilty. King Solomon's Story in the BibleWho Was Lot's Wife in the Bible?Who Was Jezebel in the Bible?Who Was the Prodigal Son? And Peter declared that she would experience the same fate which Ananias had suffered. Their loving concern for one another went so far as to touch their wallets, and that is real care! Peter gave her an opportunity to be honest. 3. .it has given me a lot to ponder. Immediately Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, knew something was wrong. But that becomes even more obvious to us when we learn that their confidence for the future was in their bank account rather than in the Lord. Why do I lie to myself so often? (3 Then Peter said, "Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some . When Peter asked Sapphira, Is this the price you and Ananias got for the land? (Acts 5:8), her life hung in the balance. However, money can often rule men and restrict the rights that God has over them. Here are some possibilities for A & N: Have they been cautioning you lately, urging you to draw you closer to God? But the acclaim was there. As the early church began to share resources, a couple named Ananias and Sapphira tried to trick them. Both affect my relationship with God. Help me exchange Satans lies for your truth. 3 Ways Jesus Shows Us How to Practice Hospitality, 3 Times Christians Actually Should Judge Others. One could make a case for either. In the Bible, it seems sapphires were likely used by God to adorn a new created Lucifer. 2:19). Fear God? This was a hard story to revisit. . The major sin of Ananias and Sapphira was dishonesty, deceit, hypocrisy, pretense, presenting a false image of themselves, implying a greater spirituality than they actually possessed, letting people think more highly of them than what they knew was warranted. Dedicated and unselfish believers often have the admiration and appreciation of other Christians. She is passionate about researching and uncovering the mysteries that lie in this sacred book. Ananias and his wife Sapphira sold a piece of property too. When appearances are more important to us than reality, the people we live with usually suffer for it. How can you avoid this tendency? How precious that as Believers we can reason through things together without anger or malice. And that brings us, secondly, to the sin of Ananias and Sapphira. If he thinks he is coming out on the short end, he quarrels and complains until he gets what he thinks he deserves. Buddhists believed that Sapphire brought spiritual enlightenment, and Hindus used it during worship. Wow. They are part of a larger unit called the Body of Christ (Eph. And as he heard these words, Ananias fell down and breathed his last (Acts 5:5). 10 In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. Leviticus 10:1 says they offered "unauthorized fire" to the Lord in their censers, contrary to his command. How many times are we motivated by what others will think of us? They thought alike, they had deep feelings for each other, and they made decisions that reflected their mutual care and concern. Lets be honest. sometimes the things i hide the most from are my thoughts and fears. Our story begins with a magnanimous gift and ends with a miraculous expansion. 2 And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and brought a certain part and laid it at the apostles' feet. It is included in the list of those things which characterize those who will not inherit the kingdom of God (Rev. It was no grandstand play with him. They were con artists who came into the early church to try to deceive God's . Site by Author Media. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart. Yet, even this gruesome story has a redemptive ending. Two, of course, are Ananias and his wife Sapphira ( Acts 5:1 ). The words of John 3:16 were fulfilled. Dont I know that when I deny myself that time, that I am showing God that I dont need Him? What a ministry you have! I long for a mighty move of the Holy Spirit into my life and in doing so, I know that this will bring expose to my life. Many of us are right there with you Thanks for giving me the honor of encouraging you in some small way each week. We who have the Holy Spirit in us are still vulnerable no matter how long weve been a member\Christian. He created me. It happens when we are the center of our lives instead of God living there. Luke follows up this story with one that sounds just the opposite. Amen to that! This suggests that their sin was a sin against God, and the church was in danger. It can be hard to be truthful because of fear of what others are going to think of me. Sapphira darling you know we give so much, and this is our land, we have worked hard, let us keep a little for our old age. They wanted more than acceptance; they wanted acclaim. In their case, lying to the Holy Spirit is punishable by death, an immediate death. Though Ananias and Sapphira are not specifically mentioned in Acts 4:31, all certainly suggests they might indeed have been included in that outpouring and infilling of the Holy Spirit. But most of them were selling their material possessions and giving the money to the apostles to be distributed to those who, in all probability, had lost their jobs because of their faith. God does not gain glory from deceit. His neighbors and friends were frightened too. , from Aram. While they demonstrated a marvelous togetherness in their deceptive scheme, their hypocrisy could not help but have affected their marriage. However, they lied about how much they had sold the property for, and kept back some of the money for themselves. But Ananias and Sapphira didnt think. As mama used to say I brought you into this world! The people in the early church who sold their possessions and gave the money to the church probably received the enthusiastic appreciation of the entire congregation. She, too, falls dead. The Bible shows us that Sapphira and Ananias had failed to resist the evil influence of Satan. Lying is serious business with God, and He will not tolerate it. Mary Oelerich-Meyer is a Chicago-area freelance writer and copy editor who prayed for years for a way to write about and for the Lord. God already knows it and I find it easy to ask for forgiveness from him but I dont want anyone else to know my short comings. Please, notice the word all. And died (Acts 5:5). Keep bringing these to mind, Father, and a thousand more. When we admit our true feelings and motives to someone else, when we acknowledge our faults for what they are and ask someone to pray for us, it provides a helpful incentive to claim Gods power to change. So for Ananias and Sapphira, rest assured that they were not believers. I often sing when Im alone in the car. Sapphire is a beautiful gemstone that has been prized throughout history for its celestial blue color. The Apostle Peter, through a revelation from the Holy Spirit, questioned their honesty: Ananias, on hearing this, immediately fell down dead. Then I work around to remembering that I am saved by grace and forgiven and justified through Jesus. Source for information on Sapphira: The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable dictionary. The bigger issue wasnt that the group expected a certain amount of money, and some was missing. You can imagine how grateful people were, praising generous givers like Barnabas, who sold a field "and put the money at the apostles' feet" (Acts 4:37). However, whenever Luke refers to believers by name in the book of Acts, he introduces them by saying, A certain disciple named But Acts 5:1 simply reads, A man named Ananias, with his wife Sapphira So this couple may (we cannot be certain) have been merely observers of this new church, rather than Spirit-filled participants. Today, Sapphire is still a popular gemstone that is cherished for its beauty and meaning. This is the level on which he thinks his thoughts, senses his feelings, and makes his choices. Was Sapphira complicit, or was she submissive to her husband, who really held all of the power? No one can out-give God. But they were to find that it can never be so. Alas, she was not. Who did he think he was fooling? Barnabas was one who sacrificed everything (Acts 4:36, 37). Not because something eerie goes bump in the night, but because the Holy Ghost displays his mighty power. A terribly tragic, sad story. Hearing what was happening (including new miracle healings), the Sanhedrin had Peter and John the Apostle arrested and imprisoned. But when some concerned Christian who might be able to help us asks how things are going at home, we quickly reply, Oh, just great, great. Hypocrisy is the most dangerous spiritual virus to infect the church. The name sapphire comes from the Greek word sappheiros, meaning blue stone. Sapphires are found in a variety of colors, but the most prized sapphires are blue. When Ananias heard Peter say, You have not lied to men but to God (Acts 5:4), he immediately fell and died. So appreciate your honesty here, and the food for thought YOU have provided. https://www.learnreligions.com/ananias-and-sapphira-bible-story-summary-700070 (accessed July 5, 2023). And the Lord added daily to those who were being saved. How can we be sure the same thing will never happen to us? They had every right to keep part of the money if they wished, but they gave in to Satan's influence and lied to God. General Editor. Scares the be-jeebers out of me! Scripture reference: Acts 5:1-11 Bible Search Tool. Truth is, everyone who heard about his death was terrified (GW). Clearly God was putting this couple to the test and their neighbors were not about to interfere. We are careful to veil most of the expressions of the flesh before others, but safely behind the walls of our own homes, we have a tendency to let it all hang outall the anger, all the temper, all the unkindness and inconsiderateness, all the selfish demands, all the pride, all the childish behavior. If youre thinking, Wasnt Ananias the true Bad Boy in this story?, he was indeed. 6:10), the household of God (Eph. I cant speak for the Holy Spirit, but I believe that in the early stages of the Church, someone needed to call out this sin as heinous and make a demonstration of him to the rest of the community (and unbelievers as well). Then we will be able to stop playing the game of putting on appearances. Forgive me when I stumble. Our salvation is wholly dependent on the grace of God, and not on our own actions. The Story of Ananias and Sapphira When the apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit, they became a mighty force to be reckoned with. 3. Why did you people plot to test the Spirit of the Lord? (Acts 5:9 CJB). No Christian husband and wife can be an island to themselves. Others probably set some aside too. Who were these people to go along with this fellowship but not follow its ideas fully? And the young men arose and covered him up, and after carrying him out, they buried him (Acts 5:6). On the spot. Biblical People: Sapphira By Admin September 12, 2021 Sapphira and her husband sell some land and give part of the proceeds to the church. Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live (Isaiah 55:3 KJV). Evidently, Sapphiras heart told her that some was enough.. As they appeared to have thirsted for accolades and praises from the early church, they seemed to have succumbed to the pride of life that John warned of in 1 John 2:16. They were sacrificing their own comforts and conveniences for the good of all. What others give is between them and the Lord. Thank you, Liz, for such wonderful studies. Chapter 6: Generous to a Fault beautiful, the wife of Ananias (q.v.). Their deceit undermined the apostles' authority, which was crucial in the early church. True, this deception wasnt her idea, but Sapphira was privy to it from the start, and willingly went along with her husbands plan. Jan 18, 2021 Claim to fame: The Holy Spirit told Peter that Ananias and Sapphira would immediately die. Name: Sapphira [suh-FIGH-ruh: "beautiful"] Main contribution: Her death for lying to the Holy Spirit inspired awe of God in believers and unbelievers alike. It is a beautiful name for a girl. Sapphira is a lovely name which unfortunately has an unsavory Biblical history. FIve minutes each day this week. Question for Reflection This will be our little secret. No second chances. If their attitudes are wrong, even if they both share them alike, they must acknowledge them openly to the Lord and refuse to go on excusing them. Not in any season and not for any reason. That is why He put this account into his Word. This is the realm of experience. Have you ever wondered what kind of relationship Ananias and Sapphira had with each other? His love will cover our omissions and commissions, then our hearts will be prepared to be filled to overflowing with His joy. They collaborated on a plan to stash some of the money from the sale of their property in a safety deposit box for themselves and take the rest to the apostles. Probably the old, nobody will know and the need to look as good as the Joneses, if not better. If only theyd spoken the truth, instead of a lie. If you look at Acts 4: 31 we are told that (and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit'(Good News Bible/Ghost'(Library Reference Bible Oxford Universit Press), and they spake the word of God with boldness (L.R.B. They trusted themselves and they had it all figured out. They could not bear to do what the others were doinggive their substance totally to God and trust solely in His faithfulness to meet their needs. What does the bible say about dreams and nightmares. Sapphires are beautiful, blue gemstones that have been treasured throughout history. How Can Christians Knock Down Fear of the Future? I DO have a quiet place. Then I tell myself that if I just had a quiet place..uhstop right there. Ananias means "Jehovah is gracious.". Lesson #4 - be very careful with your heart. Why Is it Important to Remember That Jesus Was Jewish? Compare Major Beliefs of 7 Christian Denominations, Introduction to the Catholic Religion: Beliefs, Practices and History. That was the theme of everyone giving what they had and gathering it together for the work of the gospel. Its our money, isnt it? Gods family is much broader than any single family unit, and we soon learn that our relationship to this larger spiritual family affects our relationship with each other as husbands and wives. As Ive been pondering these questions today, I wonder whether they considered God in their attitudes and actions. As a result, God struck them both dead. Updated on June 25, 2019 The sudden deaths of Ananias and Sapphira are among the scariest events in the Bible, a terrifying reminder that God will not be mocked. This delay could cause us to assume judgment wont happen, but without Jesuss saving power, punishment is inevitable. Those early Christians sensed a spiritual bond at the deepest level of their lives. I hear what youre saying about struggling to give it all to God. What was so wrong with their plan? The Holy Spirit is serious business. Love your blogs and I am so blessed by them all! I am enjoying these Bible Study Blogs, they really have made me think and that is a good thing. A man couldnt ask for much more than that. Even if they were filled with the Holy Spirit, Satan could still get to them. Later, not knowing the fate of her husband, Sapphira shows up, and Peter confronts her as well. 6. Sapphira was one of the first converts to Christianity at the time of the Apostle Peter. 1915. Worst betrayal: Ananias and Sapphira lied to the Spirit and the Church about their generous giving. Call an excuse what it really isa lieand speak the truth to myself. She was a partner in his guilt and also in his punishment ( Acts 5:1-11 ). What were they thinking? Sapphira means "beautiful" or "pleasant.". Though this is a unique scene in the New Testament, it serves as a reminder of Satans determination to mislead the flock. 2. practical ways you can prevent yourself from falling into an excuse-making mode when the temptation to lie strikes? This article is part of our People of Christianity catalog that features the stories, meaning, and significance of well-known people from the Bible and history. Sapphira was the wife of Ananias, who in Acts chapter 5 sold a piece of land and kept back part of the price, with his wife also knowing about it, laying it at the apostles' feet, presumably claiming it was the entire amount. It actually begins at the end of chapter 4 with the description of the early church in Jerusalem, a group of believers so filled with the Holy Spirit that they were of one heart and one mind. Guess this is a question that has been debated for centuries once saved always saved? The Holy Spirit also condemns our sins and so they became a warning to others looking on and us today. The thought we deserve this might have entered their minds. We go before him and confess our wrongdoing so that all of our sins can be taken from us. I dont know wheather A and S were saved or not but they were hanging around the church and attempting to do like the Christians. Absolutely right, Cathy. God doesnt want our excuses! The Bible is clear that we should have nothing to hide and nothing to fear. 2 With his wife's full knowledge he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles' feet. In Acts 5:1, the Holy Spirit introduces "a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife," while in Acts 9:10, the Holy Spirit says "a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias.". Instead, they listened to the wrong voice. A lifelong student of the Bible, Peter DeHaan, PhD, wrote the 1,000-page website ABibleADay.com to encourage people to explore the Bible. His only thought was the need of other Christians and the glory of God. Love what you said about omission . By filling our thoughts with Gods Word, so we recognize the truth when we hear it. 2. Saphira as a girls name is a variant of the English name Sapphire. Though Sapphira was Bad for a Moment, her first-century sisters learned an important lesson from her mistakes. And his wife Sapphira joined him in the deception. He gives of himself only to get something in return, and he usually keeps track of how much he gets. Wow. Ananias and Sapphira Bible Story Study Guide. We cannot escape his presence. Because they were the latest movement, and it was exciting to join them? 3 But Peter said, "Ananias, why has () Satan filled your heart to lie () to the Holy Spirit and () to keep back for yourself part of the proceeds . Ananias and Sapphira gave each other to justify their subterfuge? They would have been new members of the body of Christ and new are so vulnerable today as well as then. Im looking forward to hearing about Rahab next week! Ironically, Ananias' name means "Jehovah has been gracious." With this show of God's anger, great fear seized everyone in the young church. It is possible that the church's well-intentioned sharing of goods led to a considerable amount of subtle pressure on members to make donations, and that the problem of Ananias and Sapphira is that they wanted to receive a . F. Bruce suggests that Ananias "has an honoured place in sacred history, and a special claim upon the gratitude of all who in one way or another have entered into the blessing that stems from the life and work of the great apostle." [7] Theres a Willa Cather novel called Sapphira and the Slave Girl, and in the book Eragon, its the name of a dragon (spelt Saphira). Sapphire is a beautiful blue stone that has been used in jewelry and other decorative objects for centuries. But yet, they were wrong. As a result, they paid the ultimate price for their disobedience. His attempt to conceal the truth and receive a name for generosity without actually sacrificing made him guilty. The whole church was afraid. She did nothing to stop herself. And presto, they would have instant acclaim as spiritual, self-sacrificing believers who had surrendered everything to Jesus Christ. Ananias and Sapphira. They were the formative days of the church. God will provide for my needs.. Be HonestThe Story of Ananias and Sapphira "We have each other, and that is all that matters," the love-struck couple boasted shortly after their wedding. Until then, bless for you making time for Gods Word in your busy life. Peter reminded Ananias that the land was his own to do with as he wished. They lied against the Holy Spirit when they claimed they brought it all. Hilda Scott is an avid explorer of the Bible and inteprator of its gospel. 4. In the Bible, Sapphire is associated with the tribe of Issachar and is said to represent wisdom and understanding. I have learned to say No or Yes. 3 But Peter said, "Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back . I often wish that I could put tape over my mouth sometimes. When Ananias stood alone before Peter, the apostle asked him, Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit? (Acts 5:3) Clearly, the evil one had influenced (CEB) and tempted (DRA) Sapphiras husband, such that hed let Satan take control (GNT). We hold our breath, waiting for Ananias to fall to his kneesconfessing, repenting, begging for mercy, something. Or reason or consider the consequences. Sapphira chose to perpetuate the same false front her husband had initiated. The sapphire is the second-hardest gemstone, after diamonds. Answer The story of Ananias and Sapphira is found in Acts 5, and it is a sad story, indeed. "Ananias and Sapphira Bible Story Study Guide." He does not seem to act that way now. But Sapphira was led astray by the same evil voice. That is usually easier than committing ourselves totally to Christ and letting Him live through us to make the changes He wants to make. When I get something right, praise the Lord alone. Its final. An example had to be made. So far, so good. Sapphira and her husband Ananias were among the first in Jerusalem to become Christians. Here, Sapphira followed her husband's lead in giving the rehearsed account to the apostles (Acts 5:2, Acts 5:8-9). Ananias and his wife Sapphira were members of the early Christian Jerusalem church. Biblical Studies 5 Insights for Interpreting the Deaths of Ananias and Sapphira Matthew Boffey 8 min read May 18, 2021 The story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5 is difficult. The heart is sometimes used in Scripture to refer in a wider sense to the immaterial part of mans being, including both his spirit and his soul. .so often it isnt what i say but what i dont say. The Story of Ananias and Sapphira Peter confronts Sapphiras husband about his duplicity. Annanias and Sapphira learned this lesson the hard way and paid for their deception with their lives. And lies hurt Him mightily, even subtle lies or lies of omission. It is also one of the stones mentioned in the Bible, specifically in the book of Exodus. Some stories in the Bible are meant to strike fear in our hearts. Sadly, Im very good at coming up with those. How many times do we each deserve this fate? Again, the young men took her body away and buried it. Wow. He explained that they were under no obligation to sell their property. Ananias and Sapphira lied about the amount of money they had given to the Lord, and they were struck dead because of it (Acts 5:1-11). Paul warned the church, Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked (Galatians 6:7). Im just as guilty! He spoke to my heart, ever so gently, Because I knew Sapphiras heart and I know your heart. The things that I have done were not for the same reasons that Sapphira had. The closing verses of Acts 5 tells us what happened after Sapphiras downfall: Everyone who heard of these things had a healthy respect for God (MSG). Wow! God knows them and is just waiting for us to release it all to Him. They most likely were persuaded by those before them that sold their properties and gave their money to the Apostles. Acts 5:1-11. I believe this was exactly the reaction God wanted. The remarkable hardness of sapphires, which measure 9 on the Mohs scale, is second only to diamond. Its a gem. Liz: thank you for your amazing messages. Remind me that I cannot hide, and because of your grace, I dont need to. What are the risks of husbands and wives being transparent with each other? Sapphires are often used in jewelry, and they are also used in electronic equipment because of their durability. When a husband, church, or government asks a Christian to sin, the believer always has the responsibility to obey God.. Categories: Bad Girls of the Bible, Blog.
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