New Testament
Acts 5:4
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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.
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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.
What Acts 5:4 means
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.
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
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Illustrated scene from Peter's story: Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1–11)
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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.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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Related Bible verses
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 5:4 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.
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