The Seriousness of the Congregation

Introduction

In the modern world, we might worry over the laxity that exists about church.

We should be very cautious to protect against taking church less seriously than we should.

It has become an entertainment venue.

It has become a self-serving place.

Some might see it as a personal “play thing.”

Our assembly is to be protected through our own personal sanctity.

1 Cor. 3:16

1 Cor. 6:19

1 Cor. 11 - some died through not making distinctions about church.

How seriously should we take our behavior?

Two examples, one positive, the other negative should remind us.

Finally, we see another growing problem.

Apostles and money management.

A Contrast of Peoples

Barnabas: A positive example

Luke cites Barnabas as an example of someone he has more generally describes.

The Apostles gave him a nickname based upon his embodiment of the generosity and helpfulness he displayed.

They called him “son of encouragement.” This must refer to his giving. (Note Acts 4:37).

Ananias: Aachen like defiance

At length, however, Luke gives Ananias and Sapphira as negative examples.

He does more than focus on them, however.

He shows they use generosity as a chance for embezzlement.

They disrespect the authority/persons of the apostles.

They show no regard for the Holy Spirit and the empowerment, thereby, of the Apostles.

Luke borrows the language of Josh. 7:1.

Also, slaves, according to Titus 2:10 were not to embezzle.

However, the concern is over a deliberate attempt to get by with it.

Peter will explain that this happens needlessly.

It is the brazenness of it and the breach of good faith that becomes a concern.

Notice how Peter addresses the situation:

Acts 4:3: Satan filled his heart (not the HS).

That caused him to deceive the Holy Spirit and to embezzle from the value of the land.

Acts 4:4: This was needless because Ananias had control of the property and its value.

We must think of this as motivated by an intentional attempt to deceive when otherwise there was no reason for there to be a problem.

Peter again asks why this matter resided in Ananias’ heart.

Peter apparently understood what Ananias did as an attempt to see if anyone would know what had happened.

This becomes another way the presence of the Spirit among the congregation becomes known.

This becomes important for maintaining the unity of the congregation.

These two become an example for everyone else to avoid.

We should note Acts 4:12-13.