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Did the Early Church Practice Socialism? (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeIn the early church, members voluntarily sold their possessions and laid the proceeds at the apostles' feet to distribute to those in need, demonstrating their trust in the apostles and their shift in allegiance from the old system to Christ's representatives. Among them, a man named Ananias, with his wife Sapphira, sold a possession but kept back part of the proceeds, though they presented it as if they had given the full amount. Peter confronted Ananias, questioning why satan had filled his heart to lie to the Holy Spirit by withholding part of the price of the land. Peter clarified that the land was theirs to keep or sell, and the money was under their control, with no claim made by the apostles. Their sin was not in retaining part of the proceeds but in their hypocrisy, pretending to be more generous than they were. God judged them for this false witness, executing them for their deception.
Should We 'Sweat the Small Stuff'? (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by Bill OnisickIn the narrative of Ananias and Sapphira, as found in Acts 5:1-11, we encounter a stark warning about the consequences of seemingly small deceptions. They told a little lie, yet God's reaction was swift and severe, resulting in their deaths. This example underscores the gravity with which God views even minor infractions, revealing that what may appear insignificant to us carries profound weight in His eyes. Such instances serve as a sobering reminder to guard against the little foxes that threaten our spiritual integrity and connection to the Vine, Jesus Christ.
The Obsolescing Right
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughIn the account of Ananias and Sapphira, Peter upholds the fundamental principle of private property ownership by declaring that their land, while it remained unsold, was their own, and after it was sold, the profit was under their control. Even as the early believers shared all things in common, the right to personal ownership was not abolished, reflecting a consistent biblical emphasis on individual property rights.
Unity and Division: The Blessing and the Curse (Part Five)
'Ready Answer' by Charles WhitakerJesus desires our total commitment to the truth and to Him. Hypocrites will find themselves among those to whom Christ will say, 'I never knew you.'
Was the Early Church Socialist or Communist?
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeThe apostles never required converts to give up property as a precondition for church membership. Rather, the members voluntarily gave, retaining ownership.
God, Socialism, and Offerings
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughSocialism is enforced slavery to government, founded on no religious principle, but on the poisonous fruits of 'progressive' humanism.
Elements of Judgment (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)We must emulate the ways of God, demonstrating justice in our lives, thoughts, words, and deeds, preparing to judge in God's Kingdom. Not all sins are equal.
Lying to the Holy Spirit
'Ready Answer' by Richard T. RitenbaughThe apostle Peter claims Ananias and Sapphira lied to the Holy Spirit. Does his statement prove the Holy Spirit is a divine Person in a Trinity?
Could You Be Struck Dead?
Sermon by Martin G. Collinsthe deaths of Ananias, Saphira, Nadab, Abihu, and Uzzah all occurred at a pivotal time of change, a time God desired to get the attention of all people.
Acts (Part Seven)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughLuke records the confrontation of the apostles and the Sanhedrin. Amazingly, the apostles found an ally in Gamaliel, a Pharisee and grandson of Hillel.
Suffering Disgrace For Christ's Name
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe can always expect new challenges, including persecution, and must never be content with standing still, but must press on to spiritual maturity.
Presumption and Divine Justice (Part Two)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe Bible reveals a pattern of God's displeasure with presumption. God's justice always aligns with His righteousness, but He often acts in mercy.
Justice and Grace
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughSometimes we are disturbed, even angered, because an act of God seems unfair. We have difficulty because we do not understand holiness, justice, sin, and grace.
Acts (Part Six)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe early church had confidence in God's sovereignty, realizing that no human authority could thwart God's power. This conviction gave them strength.
Defining Grace
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe entire life of Christ was a manifestation of God's grace, revealing the nature of God by means of a life lived to give us an example to follow.
Holiness of God (Part 3)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughAs bearers of God's name, we must aspire to holiness. Perfecting holiness is the process by which we are transformed from the glory of man to the glory of God.
The Fear of God (Part Three)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughAfter the Spirit of God is imparted, removing the fear of men and installing the life-sustaining fear of God, the real dramatic growth takes place.
Examples of Divine Justice
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughNadab and Abihu, Ananias and Sapphira, and Uzzah, all aware of the penalties for their actions, rebelled against God's clear and unambiguous instructions.