Do you want God's power but struggle with His call to holiness?
Do you ever try to make yourself look better in front of others? I certainly do. Don’t we all? I think it’s human nature to be worried about how others perceive us. But some people take it too far, to the point of lying to others, or even to God.
We find an example in Acts 5. Ananias and Sapphira sell a piece of land and pretend to give all the proceeds to the church, but secretly keep some for themselves. In itself, that was not the problem. Peter makes it clear: the money was theirs.
The real problem was their lie. They wanted to appear more spiritual than they were. Peter says:
“You have not lied to men, but to God.” (Acts 5:4)
What follows is violent: both drop dead. Great fear comes over the congregation. This passage raises questions. Why is God’s judgment so direct and visible here? Why does God punish so excessively at all?
We must realise that the congregation is very new, still laying its foundation. God makes it clear that His holiness is non-negotiable. The church is not a place for religious pretence, but for truth.
This story shows that grace is not a cheap concept. The same Spirit that gives strength is also holy. God builds His church not only on enthusiasm, but on integrity.
Yet this chapter is not entirely dark. We also read that signs and wonders are increasing and that many are coming to faith. Holiness and growth go hand in hand.
Perhaps this confronts us with an uncomfortable question: do we want the power of God, but without the holiness of God?
God does not seek perfect people. He seeks honest hearts.
Are there areas in your life where you want to appear spiritually better than you really are? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal them to you and surrender them to God.
