PODCAST
When A Gift Is Not A Gift
August 24th, 2019
Acts 4:31—5:4
Some say that the new Christian community forming in Jerusalem is experiencing a second Pentecost. Sensing divine blessing and filled with the Holy Spirit, they boldly proclaim God’s Word.
No community member lives in need; worldly possessions are sometimes sold to care for others.
Ananias and Sapphira live affluently, working hard for what they have. They sell land and give, but not the full amount as they profess. God sees the lie and they die, having discredited the Holy Spirit’s witness among the new believers. When is a gift not a gift? When it’s not given.
By contrast, God’s gifts are freely given. Relationship with Jesus changes everything and everyone. The grip on worldly things relaxes and relationship with God unifies all. Trust in God fulfills every need and Christ-followers give from His unlimited wealth.
Trust God. Accept His gifts and be the powerful witness that will always reach a changing world.
Author: Jan C. LaSalle
