Scripture to Read: Acts 4:36-37; Acts 5:1-11
As we saw in the first two devotions this week, commentators on Luke 13:18-21 disagree on whether the parables represent the negative influence that will infiltrate the church or the growth of the church itself. Negative influence has been within the church since Christ’s church began. As we read Acts 4:36-37, we find Barnabas introduced. This is the same Barnabas who traveled with Paul on some of the first missionary journeys. We read how Barnabas sold some land and gave it to the church. Then in Acts 5:1-11, we find Ananias, with his wife Sapphira, who also sold some property. But when Ananias brought his gift to the church, he lied and made it sound like he brought the full amount when he kept some money for himself. Keeping some of the money for himself was not the problem. The problem was that he told them he brought the full amount as if he was sacrificially giving as Barnabas had done. God hates lying, and we know why He hates lying because Jesus called Satan the father of lies in John 8:44. So, because Ananias and his wife Sapphira both lied to the Holy Spirit, it cost them their lives. Satan, and the spiritual forces of wickedness, will use anyone they can to infiltrate God’s church with complaining, lying, cheating, stealing, gossip, and any other actions that kill the unity and love between believers. We must all constantly be on guard so we are not one of those tools of the enemy.
Challenge & Application
1. What did God teach you today about being honest at all times?
2. How will you guard your heart from being deceptive to others?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!