New Testament

Acts 5:10

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ClearClear Bible Translation

Instantly she fell down at his feet and yielded up the ghost. When the young men came in and found her dead, they carried her out and buried her beside her husband.

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KJVKing James Version

Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband.

What Acts 5:10 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this passage, we see a dramatic moment where a woman named Sapphira falls dead at the feet of the apostle Peter. This happens immediately after she lies about the amount of money she and her husband, Ananias, had given to the church. The young men who were present quickly realize she is dead and take her body away to bury her next to her husband. This event serves as a powerful reminder of the seriousness of honesty and integrity within the community of believers. It highlights the consequences of deceit and the importance of being truthful, especially in matters of faith and commitment. The suddenness of her death emphasizes that actions have immediate repercussions, and it calls us to reflect on our own honesty in our dealings with others. This story is not just about punishment; it’s about the value of transparency and the impact of our choices on our relationships and community. It challenges us to consider how we present ourselves and what we truly value in our lives.

How to apply Acts 5:10 to your life

This passage encourages us to be truthful in our actions and words. It reminds us that dishonesty can lead to serious consequences, not just for ourselves but for those around us. Reflect on your commitments and ensure they align with your values and beliefs. Choose honesty in all your interactions to build trust and integrity in your relationships. Be mindful of how your choices affect your community and loved ones. Stay true to your word.

Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary

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A painting of Peter speaking to Ananias as he lays down the money

Illustrated scene from Peter's story: Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1–11)

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Peter

The low dark stone ruins of Capernaum, with the Sea of Galilee and hills behind.

Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.

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Capernaum

Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.

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At a Glance — the Book of Acts

Author
Luke the physician
Written
Around AD 62
Genre
Historical narrative
Original Audience
Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What happened to Sapphira in Acts 5:10?

In Acts 5:10, Sapphira falls dead at the feet of the apostle Peter after lying about the amount of money she and her husband, Ananias, had donated to the church. This event occurs immediately after Peter confronts her about her deceit, highlighting the seriousness of dishonesty within the community of believers.

What is the significance of Sapphira's death?

Sapphira's death serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of dishonesty and deceit, especially in matters of faith. It emphasizes the importance of integrity and transparency within the church community, illustrating that actions have immediate repercussions and urging believers to reflect on their own honesty.

What lessons can we learn from Acts 5:10?

Acts 5:10 teaches us the value of honesty and integrity in our dealings with others. It reminds us that dishonesty can lead to serious consequences, not just for ourselves but also for our community. The passage encourages us to align our commitments with our values and to choose transparency in our interactions.

How does Acts 5:10 relate to community values?

This passage underscores the importance of honesty and integrity as foundational values within a community of believers. It challenges us to consider how our actions affect those around us and highlights the need for trust and accountability in our relationships.

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