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As we see the church begin to develop in Acts we find that as the masses believed in Jesus; they helped each other. In fact some sold what they had and brought it to the apostles. It was distributed and there were “no needy people”. (Acts 4:34)

In chapter 5, we find the trend continuing with a man named Ananias who, with his wife, Sapphira, when they sold some property. However, they decided to keep a portion of their money, but not tell the apostles. They presented the money as if it was all. As judgement for their lie they both drew their last breath and died.

It is interesting as we look deep into this Word how it is apparent that they both had a choice to speak the truth or choose to lie. The Word tells us that Satan is the father of lies, but in this instance we find that they were in control of their choices. They deliberately chose to lie. It was none of the expression “the devil made me do it”. It was a conscious choice to lie.

As Christ Followers we can be encouraged that God gives us a way of escape. We do not have to give into any temptation. “The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure”. (I Corinthians 10:13) As Christ Followers we are equipped through the power of the Holy Spirit to choose right. “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and remind you of all that I said to you”. (John 14:26)

You can imagine that when Ananias and Sapphira sold their property is was a lot of money. However, Peter points out in the chapter they had a choice to do what they wanted. No one was making them do what the others had done. They could keep it or even keep a portion. It was not in the choosing of giving the money that was the problem. It was the deception in how they gave it. They presented it as if it was the whole amount from the sale. It was not. They not only lied to the apostles, and the people, but lied to God. “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord,

But those who deal faithfully are His delight”. (Proverbs 12:22)

As Christ Followers, let us learn to “deal faithfully” and to glorify God in our choices.

Yvette Perrin is a columnist for The Charlotte Gazette. She can be reached at theword2yvette@gmail.com.