There was an interval of about three hours; then his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. “Tell me,” Peter asked her, “did you sell the field for this price?” “Yes,” she said, “for that price.” Acts 5:7-8 HCSB
All of us have experienced someone lying to us, and I am sure all of us have told a lie at some time in our lives. As a minister I have interacted with many who come to the church asking for benevolence help. I have heard numerous accounts detailing the misfortune people are experiencing, and I have always tried to help whenever possible even when I suspected someone was lying about his circumstances just to get help. I have tried to provide food and pay delinquent bills rather than providing money. I was told a story of a man who was standing on the side of the road with a sign that said, “Will work for money.” When a gentleman stopped and offered him a job the man told him, “I can make more money standing on this corner than going to work for you at $10 per hour.” Some people will lie for evil gain at the expense of compassionate people.
Ananias and Sapphira had agreed with each other to lie to the apostles and the church about the price they received for the sale of their property. They wanted to appear to be as generous as Barnabas and receive similar recognition and praise from other people. They lied to the people, but more importantly they lied to God. God always knows the truth and will always punish sin.
Challenge: Lying is a problem in our culture. Businessmen lie. Politicians lie. Companies lie about their products. Advertisements are deceptive. The Bible says that the truth will set you free (John 8:32). Seek to be truthful in all of your dealings and relationships.