[:en]Ananias and Sapphira (vs. 1-11)
A man named Ananias and his wife Sapphira sold a piece of property. With his wife’s knowledge, he kept back part of the money for himself and brought the rest and put it at the apostle’s feet. He had lied to God and God’s people saying that they gave the whole part but holding back some for themselves, trying to appear more generous than they really were. When Peter rebuked him, he fell down and died. Three hours later, Sapphira came in. Peter asked her if that was the price she got from the land. She said “yes”. At the moment she fell down and died at his feet. God judgment of Ananias and Sapphira produced shock and fear among the believers. They realized how serious God had regarded concerning the sin of covetousness.
The Apostles Heal Many (vs. 12-16)
The apostles performed many miracles sins and wonders among the people. The sick and those f\tormented by the evil spirits were brought into the streets. People who passed within Peter’s shadows were healed because of God’s power working thru him. Peter’s miraculous healing proved to the people the truth of his teachings and demonstrated the power of the Messiah. as a result, more and more people believed in the Lord.The Apostles Persecuted (vs. 17-42)
The religious leaders were filled with jealousy. They arrested the apostles and put them in public jail. But during the night, an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the jail and brought them out. The angels told them to go, stand in the temple courts and tell the people the full message of their new life. At daybreak, they entered the temple courts and began to teach the people. (vs. 20-21)
When the high priest asked them not to teach in Jesus’ name, Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than men” (v. 29) When they heard this, they were furious and wanted to put them to death. But Gamaliel, a respected Pharisee and a teacher of the law advised them against doing it. He said: “Leave these men alone! Let them go. For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men.. You will only find yourselves fighting against God” (v. 39). His speech persuaded them and the apostles were freed..
The apostles rejoiced because hey had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the name of Jesus. They never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ.
Things to Ponder:
- The sin of dishonesty, greed and covetousness are destructive in a church. It prevents the Holy Spirit to work effectively. Never try to deceive God and the believers. It will destroy our testimony for Christ.
- In the early church, generosity, sincerity, honesty, unity of the members, and the character of the leaders attracted people to come to Christ. But today, people are attracted to church because of programs, good speakers, size, popularity, and beautiful facilities. Which do you think is more effective?
- Boldness in preaching may caused trouble, hatred and persecutions. Expect negative reactions from the community but remember to be more concerned about serving God than pleasing people. Are you willing to speak up and stand up for Jesus?
- Gamaliel presented sound advice about reacting to religious movements. It is often wiser to be tolerant rather than repressive so that you will not find yourself fighting against God.
- The apostles never stopped teaching in the temple and from house to house. Home Bible study is a means to introduce new people for Christian faith. It is also a way to grow in the knowledge of God. We can use this approach to build up believers.
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