MPV Commentary
Read the modernized Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary, aligned with each Bible book and chapter, in clear, updated English.
Currently viewing commentary for Acts 5
Read the modernized Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary, aligned with each Bible book and chapter, in clear, updated English.
Currently viewing commentary for Acts 5
The first indication of trouble within the young church.
A kind of rivalry had developed among the new Christians, with each eager to contribute their means to support the apostles. However, this zeal may have led some to act impulsively without considering their true motives, while others might be tempted to exaggerate their generosity for personal gain.
2. Ananias kept back part of the price, and his wife Sapphira was aware of it—Their deliberate deception made their sin even more egregious.
He presented only a portion of the proceeds as if it were the entire amount.
3-6. Why has Satan filled your heart with this deceit? Compare Acts 5:4, where Jesus asks why Peter conceived this idea in his heart (John 13:2, 27).
You lied to the Holy Spirit, who was guiding and illuminating those around you.
4. Wasn't the money yours while it remained unsold, and wasn't it still in your control after it was sold? This highlights the voluntary nature of their contributions to support the young church.
They lied not just to men but to God Himself, who was working through them.
5. Ananias fell dead, and a great fear came over all those outside the Christian community who heard about this event. Instead of mocking the followers of Jesus, they were awed by the presence of God among them and the power of their community to address such corruption.
6. The young men in the church—likely some of its more active and younger members—were tasked with burying Ananias. In a thriving Christian community, volunteers like these are essential and will be found useful.
7-11. Tell me, did you sell the land for this amount? Sapphira was asked to confirm the price they had agreed upon (see Acts 5:2).
9. How could you have conspired together to deceive the Spirit? They were trying to see if they could escape detection by the all-knowing and supernatural presence of God with the apostles.
10. The men who buried Sapphira's husband are standing at your door—A vivid and ominous image!
11. And a great fear came over the entire church, just as it had when Achan was judged (Joshua 7:1-26). This event served as a warning to the young church at the beginning of its new life together.