In the prior chapter we saw how Jewish believers realized that they had a heavenly portion and they gave up their earthly possessions. This chapter begins with the word “But,” bringing in failure and decline. The enemy now begins to work within the flock of God. Ananias and Sapphira were lying to the Holy Spirit. Their death caused such fear among the people that no one would dare to join the apostles unless they were real believers in the Lord Jesus Christ.
The Lord worked so mightily that multitudes were saved and healed. Even Peter’s shadow brought healing, and none who came left sick. Thus did blessing begin at Jerusalem and then spread out to neighboring cities.
This mighty work stirred up the envy and wrath of the religious people, so they put the apostles in prison. However, the angel of the Lord opened the prison and instructed them to continue speaking to the people. They were brought before the Sadducees and told not to speak about Jesus, but Peter and the other apostles answered and said, “We ought to obey God rather than men.” This is true even now in the twenty-first century. The good news of forgiveness of sins was then preached to the council. But instead of receiving it, they wanted to kill the apostles. A Pharisee named Gamaliel stood up and reminded the council that in previous times there were other leaders and their followers who came to nothing. If this work was of men, it would likewise soon come to an end. But if this was all of God, they could not overthrow it, for they could not fight against God. Thus the apostles, after being beaten, were set free and continued their preaching about Jesus Christ in the temple and in every house. May we also count it a joy to suffer dishonor for His name.
1. Against whom was Ananias lying when he kept back part of the price of the land? __________ Acts 5:___
2. Although the people magnified the apostles for the many signs and wonders they did, what did no unconverted man dare to do? __________ Acts 5:___
3. Sick people and those who were vexed with unclean spirits were brought to the city of Jerusalem. How many of them were healed? __________ Acts 5:___
4. What answer did Peter and the other apostles give the council? __________ Acts 5:___
5. If a work is of God, you cannot overthrow it. If you try, who will you be fighting against? __________ Acts 5:___