The story of Ananias and Sapphira is not one that I even remember hearing before, and I definitely haven't thought deeply about it before last night's discussion. They were among the earliest of Chrisitians who were all living in community at this time. This couple sold a piece of property, voluntarily gave the profits to the apostles claiming to have given all, but secretly kept back some of the proceeds.
But Peter said, "Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back part of the proceeds of the land?...You have not lied to men but to God." When Ananias heard these words, he fell down and died.
- Acts 5:3-5
Then it goes on to tell how his wife Sapphira knew about it, lied to the apostles when questioned, and fell down dead next to him! Woah. Talk about justice. We came to the conclusion that it was such a severe punishment because of their hypocrisy . . . after just separating themselves from the often hypocritical Pharasies . . . they were going to start to poison the whole bunch. "No way," said God . . . not in so many words.
"I hope I'm not the gangrene that needs to be cut out!"
~ Quote of the night ~ Sarah
It made me reflect upon always having purity of intention. Why do I do what I do? To be a good example? To show others how "holy" I am? Just because it's part of my routine? Or truly because I love Jesus with my whole heart? I need to remind myself of it constantly.
Lord, help me to give of myself freely and love you more genuinely everyday.
Hope of the Poor Final Day
2 months ago
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