New Testament

Acts 5:4

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this passage, Peter confronts Ananias about his actions after selling a piece of property.

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

Before you sold it, wasn't it yours to keep? And after you sold it, wasn't the money yours to do with as you pleased? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You haven't lied to people — you've lied to God.

KJVKing James Version

Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this passage, Peter confronts Ananias about his actions after selling a piece of property. He reminds Ananias that the property was his to keep, and even after selling it, the money was his to use as he wished. However, Ananias chose to lie about the amount he gave to the community, pretending to be more generous than he truly was. This deception was not just against the people but against God. Peter emphasizes that God knows our hearts and intentions, and dishonesty can lead to serious consequences. The core message is about integrity and the importance of being truthful, especially in our dealings with others and with God. Ananias's choice to lie reveals a deeper issue of greed and a desire for recognition, which ultimately led to his downfall. This story serves as a powerful reminder that our actions and choices matter, and that honesty is crucial in our relationships and faith journey. We must be mindful of our motivations and the truth we uphold in our lives.

Key themes

Related topics

integrity, honesty, deception

How to apply Acts 5:4 to your life

Reflect on your own honesty in daily life. Are there areas where you might be tempted to exaggerate or misrepresent the truth? Strive to be genuine in your interactions, remembering that integrity builds trust and strengthens relationships with others and with God. Choose transparency over deceit in all situations.  “Be truthful in your dealings.”   “Live with integrity.”   “Honor your commitments.”   “Value honesty.”   “Seek authenticity.”

Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Acts 5:4 mean?

Acts 5:4 highlights Peter's confrontation with Ananias, emphasizing that Ananias had the right to keep his property and the money from its sale. However, by lying about his generosity, Ananias not only deceived the community but also God, illustrating the importance of honesty in our actions.

What is the meaning of lying to God in Acts 5:4?

Lying to God in Acts 5:4 refers to Ananias's attempt to misrepresent his actions and intentions regarding his financial contributions. This verse underscores that dishonesty, especially in matters of faith and integrity, is ultimately an offense against God.

How does Acts 5:4 relate to integrity?

Acts 5:4 relates to integrity by showing that Ananias's deception was a failure to uphold honesty in his actions. The verse teaches that maintaining integrity is crucial in our relationships and that dishonesty can lead to serious consequences.

What lesson can we learn from Acts 5:4?

The lesson from Acts 5:4 is to prioritize honesty and integrity in all aspects of life. It reminds us that our actions and motivations matter, and being truthful fosters trust and strengthens our relationships with others and with God.

The Book of Acts
Book Summary

The Book of Acts

Acts 1: The Ascension and the Choosing of Matthias

Jesus shows himself alive to the apostles after his suffering, speaking about the kingdom of God. He commands them not to leave Jerusalem but to wait for the promise of the Father, saying they will be baptized with the Holy Ghost soon. They ask if he will restore the kingdom to Israel, and he tells them it is not for them to know the times, but they will receive power when the Holy Ghost comes upon them and will be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judaea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. As they watch, he is taken up, and a cloud receives him out of their sight. Two men in white apparel tell them that this same Jesus will return in the same way they have seen him go.

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