Commentary on Acts 5

In Acts 4:32-35, Luke gave an update of the early Church, saying they were of one heart and one soul, had all things in common, and, with generous hearts, sold their lands and houses, distributing the proceeds to anyone who had need. He illustrated this passion and focus using Barnabas (Acts 4:36- 37), a Son of Encouragement, who sold his land and brought the money to the apostles for the Church's use.

As we move into Acts 5, Luke gives a second illustration with an entirely different outcome-the death of Ananias and Sapphira. Both of these illustrations reminds us of the necessity of a complete response to Jesus. Christianity demands that everything is committed to Christ.

In this expositional study of Acts 5, Stephen Manley explains how Luke helps us understand the passionate state of the early Church:

• They were wholly committed to Jesus
• Everything in their lives was controlled by Him, even their safety
• These believers never wavered in their response to good or evil
• Their love for Jesus took dominance over their financial security

We have to understand that the Good News about Jesus must engage every area of life, or we are not Christian. This commentary is a call for us to give up being half-hearted, part-time, and lukewarm ... and to embrace Jesus wholeheartedly with a complete devotion and total commitment.