Acts 5:4 – “Didn’t it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn’t the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied just to human beings but to God.”
Extended Explanation
In Acts 5:4, Peter continues confronting Ananias for his deception. Peter makes it clear that Ananias was under no obligation to sell his property or to give all the proceeds to the apostles. The problem was not that he kept some of the money but that he pretended to give it all while secretly holding back a portion.
Peter’s question, “Didn’t it belong to you before it was sold?” confirms that Ananias was never forced to give anything. The early church was not practicing communism or forced wealth-sharing. Giving was voluntary, an act of love and unity, not a requirement.
The second question, “After it was sold, wasn’t the money at your disposal?” reinforces that Ananias had full control over what he did with the money. He was free to give or keep any amount. However, his sin was lying—not to people alone, but to God Himself.
This verse teaches a profound truth: lying in spiritual matters is not just about deceiving people—it is an offense against God. Ananias’ actions were a direct rejection of truth and integrity in the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Historical Context
The early church was thriving, with believers freely sharing resources (Acts 4:32-37). Some sold land and donated everything to support those in need. This generosity was a reflection of their love for Christ and each other.
Ananias and Sapphira saw this generosity and the honor given to those who sacrificed for the church. They wanted that same recognition but without making the same sacrifice. Their deceit was an attempt to appear more spiritual than they truly were.
In Jewish tradition, honesty in vows and offerings was crucial. Lying about an offering was considered a serious sin (Leviticus 27:9-10, Ecclesiastes 5:4-5). Just as Achan’s deception in Joshua 7 brought severe consequences, Ananias and Sapphira’s lie resulted in God’s judgment.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches several important truths:
- God desires sincerity – Ananias was not judged for keeping money but for pretending to be something he was not.
- Giving must be from the heart – The early church was not about forced giving, but about genuine generosity.
- Sin is against God first – Peter makes it clear that lying to the church was, in fact, lying to God.
- God sees our hearts – Outward appearances mean nothing if our hearts are not aligned with truth.
Literary Analysis
Luke, the author of Acts, uses Peter’s questions to emphasize personal responsibility. Peter does not accuse Ananias of being pressured or manipulated. Instead, he highlights that the decision to lie was entirely Ananias’ own.
The phrase, “You have not lied just to human beings but to God,” is powerful. It shifts the focus from external actions to the spiritual reality. The Greek word used for “lied” (pseudomai) means to falsify or misrepresent the truth, showing the deliberate nature of Ananias’ sin.
Biblical Cross-References
- Proverbs 19:9 – “A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will perish.”
- Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 – “When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it… It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it.”
- Leviticus 19:11 – “Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not deceive one another.”
- Luke 12:2 – “There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known.”
- Colossians 3:9 – “Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse is a clear warning about the dangers of hypocrisy. It is easy to want to look good in front of others, but God is not fooled by appearances. He sees the heart.
It also speaks to the importance of integrity in giving, worship, and service. God does not want fake devotion. Whether we give, serve, or worship, it must be done honestly and willingly. Pretending to be more spiritual than we really are is a dangerous trap.
Christians today should examine their motives. Are we serving for recognition or out of genuine love for God? Do we say one thing while secretly doing another? This verse challenges us to be honest in every area of our lives.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
At first, some might see this passage as harsh. But God’s love is not just about comfort—it is also about truth. Love without truth is meaningless. God disciplines those He loves (Hebrews 12:6) and protects His church from corruption.
If Ananias and Sapphira’s deception had gone unchallenged, it could have set a dangerous precedent for the early church. Just as a loving parent corrects a child for their own good, God ensures that His church remains pure.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus constantly called out religious hypocrisy (Matthew 23:27-28). He warned against doing righteous acts for show and taught that God values sincerity over performance (Matthew 6:1-4).
Unlike Ananias, Jesus gave everything willingly, with no deceit in His heart. He is “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). His sacrifice was completely genuine—He laid down His life out of pure love, not for recognition.
Through Jesus, we are called to live lives of integrity. When we follow Him, we are transformed into people of truth (John 8:32).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think Peter emphasized that Ananias’ actions were his own decision?
- How does this passage challenge you to examine your own motives?
- In what ways are Christians today tempted to appear more spiritual than they actually are?
- Why is lying to God more serious than just deceiving people?
- What steps can you take to live a life of greater honesty and integrity before God?
This verse is a powerful reminder that God values truth. He calls us to serve Him with sincerity, not for appearances but from a genuine heart. Instead of trying to impress people, we should focus on walking in integrity before the One who sees all.