A Lesson in Honesty Acts 5 1 11

A Lesson in Honesty Acts 5: 1 -11

A Lesson in Honesty: Acts 5: 1 -11 Background: Acts 4: 32 -37 o Disciples were of one heart and soul o They had everything in common o Not a needy person among them How was that possible? o Owners of lands and houses sold them and brought the proceeds to the apostles who distributed to the needy. o Specific example is given: Joseph (Barnabas)

A Lesson in Honesty: Acts 5: 1 -11 Ananias was not condemned for keeping part of the $ • While Ananias owned the land it was his (to keep or sell) • After Ananias sold the land, the proceeds were under his control (to give all, some, or none of it to the poor) His sin was lying: acting like he gave all while he kept some back to be thought of like Barnabas, without the same sacrifice

A Lesson in Honesty: Acts 5: 1 -11 • • • God cannot be deceived 5: 3 -4 Lying can be done silently 5: 2 Full knowledge = “collusion” 5: 2, 9 Satan is the instigator of lies 5: 3 (Jn 8: 44) Lying starts in the heart 5: 3 -4 (Mk 7: 20 -23) Lying is not only to men, but to God 5: 3, 4 Lies lead to more lies (to keep original lie covered up) 5: 7 -8 Lying puts the Spirit of the Lord to the test 5: 9 Lying is a serious offence 5: 5, 6; 9 -10 (Rev 21: 8) Account should cause great fear to come over us 5: 5, 11