If you want to remain standing for the reading of God's word tonight, we're going to be in Acts

chapter 4, verse 32 through chapter 5, verse 11. All the believers were in one heart and mind. No one

claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had.

With great power, the apostles continued to testify

to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus,

and God's grace was so powerfully a work in them all

that there were no need persons among them.

For from time to time, those who owned land or houses sold them,

brought the money from the sales,

and put it at the apostles' feet,

and it was distributed to anyone who had need.

Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas, which means son of encouragement,

sold a field he owned, and brought the money and put it at the apostles' feet.

Now, a man named Ananias, together with his wife's Safira, also sold a piece of property.

With his wife's full knowledge, he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles' feet.

Then Peter said, Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received

for the land. Didn't it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold wasn't the money at your

disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied just to human beings but to God.

When Ananias heard this, he fell down and died, and great fear seized all who heard what had

happened. Then some young men came forward, wrapped up his body, and carried him out, and buried him.

About three hours later, his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. Peter asked her,

tell me, is this the price you an Ananias got for the land? Yes, she said, that is the price.

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