New Testament
Acts 5:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Peter said, "Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the money you received for the land?
Compare translations
But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?
What Acts 5:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Peter confronts Ananias about a serious issue. Ananias had sold a piece of land and kept some of the money for himself while pretending to give it all to the community. Peter questions why Ananias allowed Satan to influence him to lie, emphasizing the importance of honesty and integrity. This act of deceit not only affects Ananias but also the entire community, as it undermines trust. Peter highlights that lying to the Holy Spirit is a grave matter, showing that our actions have spiritual consequences. This story serves as a reminder that we should be truthful in our dealings and not let greed or fear lead us to dishonesty. The consequences of our choices can ripple through our relationships and communities, making it essential to act with sincerity and transparency. Ultimately, this passage challenges us to reflect on our motivations and the integrity of our actions in all aspects of life, encouraging us to live authentically and honorably in our relationships with others.
How to apply Acts 5:3 to your life
Consider your own life and the areas where you might be tempted to be dishonest. Reflect on the impact of your choices on those around you. Strive to be transparent and truthful in your interactions, fostering trust and integrity in your relationships. Remember, honesty builds stronger connections with others and with yourself. Be mindful of your motivations in every situation you face, ensuring they align with your values and principles.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Peter's story: Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1–11)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Peter
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Acts 5:3
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Acts 5:3
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 does Acts 5:3 teach about honesty?
Acts 5:3 highlights the importance of honesty by showing the consequences of Ananias' deceit. Peter confronts Ananias for lying to the Holy Spirit and keeping part of the money from the sale of land. This teaches us that dishonesty can undermine trust within a community and has serious spiritual implications. It encourages us to reflect on our own honesty in dealings with others.
Why did Peter accuse Ananias of lying to the Holy Spirit?
Peter accused Ananias of lying to the Holy Spirit because Ananias pretended to donate all the proceeds from his land sale while secretly keeping part of it for himself. This act of deceit was not just a lie to the community but a direct affront to the Holy Spirit, who represents truth and integrity. Peter's accusation underscores the seriousness of being truthful in our commitments.
What are the spiritual consequences of deceit according to Acts 5:3?
Acts 5:3 illustrates that deceit can lead to severe spiritual consequences. By lying to the Holy Spirit, Ananias not only jeopardized his relationship with God but also affected the entire community's trust. The passage serves as a warning that dishonesty can lead to judgment and separation from God, emphasizing the need for integrity in our actions.
How can I apply the lessons from Acts 5:3 in my life?
To apply the lessons from Acts 5:3, regularly examine your motivations and actions to ensure they align with honesty and integrity. Be transparent in your dealings, whether in personal relationships or professional settings. Strive to build trust by being truthful, and consider the impact of your choices on others. This reflection can help you foster a more authentic and trustworthy life.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.