SERIALISED PRACTICAL GUIDE

TITLE:  WHAT IS NEXT AFTER THE RESURRECTION?

 DAY 9 OF 14 SERIES (SATURDAY FRIDAY 5TH APRIL, 2024)

TOPIC:  ANANIAS AND SAPPHIRA: INTEGRITY AND TRUTH

AUTHOR: MARY LAWRENCE-DOKPESI

SCRIPTURE

“Then Peter said, ‘Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back for yourself some of the proceeds of the land? While it remained unsold, did it not remain your own? And after it was sold, was it not at your disposal? Why is it that you have considered doing this thing? You have not lied to men but to God.’” (Acts 5:3-4)

ANANIAS AND SAPPHIRA: INTEGRITY AND TRUTH

Ananias and Sapphira attempt to deceive the early church, selling their land for a high price but claiming to give the full amount. Peter, discerning their dishonesty through the Holy Spirit, confronts them. This event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of integrity and truthfulness within the Christian community.

A sense of awe and fear descends upon the onlookers as Ananias falls dead after Peter’s words. The Holy Spirit’s presence is undeniable, emphasizing the seriousness of their actions.

Benefit: Living with integrity and truthfulness fosters trust and strengthens the bonds within the Christian community. The Holy Spirit guides us to be honest in all our dealings.

Action Step: Reflect on areas in your life where you might be tempted to compromise your honesty. Pray for the courage to live with integrity in every situation.

Prayer: Lord, search my heart and reveal any areas of dishonesty. Grant me the strength to be truthful in my words and actions, honouring you and those around me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Further Exploration: Proverbs 12:22, Ephesians 4:25