Misusing Blessings: The Tale of Ananias and Sapphira

Introduction: The Concept of Stewardship

• Personal Anecdote/Relevant Story: Share a story about a time when the importance of honest stewardship was evident, either positively or negatively.

• Theme Introduction: Introduce the theme of stewardship and honesty in the context of Christian life.

• Biblical Perspective: Reference Acts 5:1-11 to set the stage for the story of Ananias and Sapphira.

Scripture Reading: Acts 5:1-11

Acts 5:1–11 NKJV

But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession. And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and brought a certain part and laid it at the apostles’ feet. But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the price of the land for yourself? While it remained, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not in your own control? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God.” Then Ananias, hearing these words, fell down and breathed his last. So great fear came upon all those who heard these things. And the young men arose and wrapped him up, carried him out, and buried him. Now it was about three hours later when his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. And Peter answered her, “Tell me whether you sold the land for so much?” She said, “Yes, for so much.” Then Peter said to her, “How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.” Then immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. And the young men came in and found her dead, and carrying her out, buried her by her husband. So great fear came upon all the church and upon all who heard these things.

The Context of the Blessing (Acts 4:32-37)

Acts 4:32–37 NKJV

Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all. Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need. And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.

A. The Generosity of the Early Church

- Describe how members sold possessions to support each other.

B. The Intended Purpose of These Blessings

- Discuss how these acts of generosity were meant to strengthen the community.

The Misuse of the Blessing (Acts 5:1-2)

Acts 5:1–2 NKJV

But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession. And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and brought a certain part and laid it at the apostles’ feet.

A. Ananias and Sapphira’s Deception

- Contrast their actions with the community’s spirit.

B. The Heart of the Issue: Selfishness and Pride

- Delve into why they might have chosen to deceive.

Divine Confrontation: Peter’s Revelation (Acts 5:3-4)

Acts 5:3–4 NKJV

But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the price of the land for yourself? While it remained, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not in your own control? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God.”

A. The Exposure of Sin

- Highlight how Peter reveals their sin as a lie to the Holy Spirit.

B. The Seriousness of Misusing God’s Gifts

- Emphasize that their sin was not just in lying, but in misusing what was meant for the common good.

The Consequences of Misusing Blessings (Acts 5:5-10)

Acts 5:5–10 NKJV

Then Ananias, hearing these words, fell down and breathed his last. So great fear came upon all those who heard these things. And the young men arose and wrapped him up, carried him out, and buried him. Now it was about three hours later when his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. And Peter answered her, “Tell me whether you sold the land for so much?” She said, “Yes, for so much.” Then Peter said to her, “How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.” Then immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. And the young men came in and found her dead, and carrying her out, buried her by her husband.

A. The Immediate Judgment

- Detail the dramatic and immediate consequence of their actions.

B. The Impact on the Community

- Discuss the fear and lessons learned by the early church.

Modern Implications: The Responsibility of Blessings

A. Personal Reflection on the Use of Blessings

- Encourage the congregation to consider how they use their own blessings.

B. The Dangers of Selfishness with God’s Gifts

- Warn against the temptations of pride and selfishness.

Learning from Their Mistake

A. Embracing Transparency and Honesty

- Suggest practical ways to ensure blessings are used as intended.

B. Fostering a Community of Sharing

- Challenge the congregation to support one another and share blessings.

Conclusion

Recap the story’s key lessons on the proper use of blessings.

Stress the importance of aligning our actions with God’s intentions for His gifts.

Closing prayer focusing on seeking God’s guidance in using blessings for His glory and the common good.