Deception 8.11.09

But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession.

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.

But Peter said, "Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the price of the land for yourself?

While it remained, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not in your own control? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God."

Then Ananias, hearing these words, fell down and breathed his last. So great fear came upon all those who heard these things.

And the young men arose and wrapped him up, carried him out, and buried him.

Now it was about three hours later when his wife came in, not knowing what had happened.

And Peter answered her, "Tell me whether you sold the land for so much?" She said, "Yes, for so much."

Then Peter said to her, "How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out."

Then immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. And the young men came in and found her dead, and carrying her out, buried her by her husband.

So great fear came upon all the church and upon all who heard these things.

Acts 5:1-11 (NKJV)

So, we have the story of Ananias and Sapphira, who gave money to the church. Wow. Not a bad thing right? But then they lied and said they gave all the money that they had. Now that was a problem with God, and He was not going to sit by and let them get away with all of this, so He killed them right there on the spot. God is one of love and mercy, but He's also one of justice and anger over sin. He loves the sinner, but not the sin.

Does it appear to others that I am a righteous person, when my life is crammed with sin?

Is my life and faith a sham?

Or, is it one filled with love for the Lord, with what He has done for me?

Do I hate my sin as much as He does, or do I hold onto it, like Ananias and Sapphira?

My little children, these things I write to you, so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world. 1 John 2:1-2 (NKJV)