After the attempt by the Jewish leaders to silence the apostles had failed, there was a renewed demonstration of the power of the Spirit in the message that they were announcing. There was also a practical demonstration of this power shown as many brought their wealth and laid it at the apostles’ feet that it might be distributed to those who had need. It was a time when there were none that lacked among the early believers.
Satan was not long in seeking again to destroy this wonderful testimony to the risen Christ. This time, however, the attempt came from within, among the believers themselves. Ananias and Sapphira lied about how much of their money they were giving to the Lord. The solemn judgment was swift as they both died. This caused great fear among all who were believers and all others who heard about it.
Once this evil from within had been dealt with, there was a fresh display of blessing and power in the assembly. Once again, however, the leaders of the Jewish nation rose up to try and stop the movement from spreading. The apostles felt the shame of the public scourging, but they rejoiced that they were worthy to bear shame for the name of the Lord Jesus.
1. Ananias and his wife, Sapphira, lied. Who is termed the “father” of lies? John 8:___
2. What happened to Achan and his family when he lied about some wealth he had wrongfully acquired and tried to hide? Joshua 7:___
3. What happened to the assemblies when they were found walking in the fear of the Lord? Acts 9:___
4. The Jewish leaders tried to stop the message by putting the apostles in prison. But the Lord opened the doors so they could continue to preach the message. What has the Lord promised that His Word will not do?
Isaiah 55:___
5. When the Jewish leaders saw the miracle that Jesus had done, they were angry. What did the Pharisees and the Herodians take counsel together to do? Mark 3:___