Topical Bible: Women: Sapphira, in Her Blasphemous Falsehood

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Sapphira is a notable figure in the New Testament, primarily recognized for her role in a deceitful act alongside her husband, Ananias. Her account is recounted in the Book of Acts, specifically in Acts 5:1-11. This account serves as a cautionary tale about the gravity of sin, particularly the sin of lying to the Holy Spirit and the community of believers.

Biblical Account

Sapphira, along with her husband Ananias, was part of the early Christian community in Jerusalem. The believers at that time were known for their communal living, sharing possessions and resources to ensure that no one among them was in need. Acts 4:32-35 describes how the believers were of one heart and soul, and how they would sell their lands or houses and bring the proceeds to the apostles to be distributed to anyone who had need.

In this context, Ananias and Sapphira sold a piece of property. However, instead of bringing the full amount to the apostles, they conspired to keep back part of the proceeds for themselves while pretending to donate the entire sum. Acts 5:2 states, "With his wife’s full knowledge, he kept back part of the proceeds for himself, but brought a portion and laid it at the apostles’ feet."

Confrontation and Consequence

The apostle Peter confronted Ananias first, revealing the divine insight into their deception. Peter questioned Ananias, saying, "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?" (Acts 5:3). Peter emphasized that Ananias had not lied to men, but to God. Upon hearing these words, Ananias fell down and died, and great fear seized all who heard what had happened (Acts 5:5).

About three hours later, Sapphira entered, unaware of her husband's fate. Peter asked her directly whether the amount they had given was the full price of the land. Sapphira confirmed the falsehood, and Peter responded, "How could you conspire to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look! The feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out also" (Acts 5:9). Immediately, she fell at his feet and died. The young men who had buried her husband came in, found her dead, and carried her out to be buried beside Ananias (Acts 5:10).

Theological Implications

Sapphira's account is a stark reminder of the seriousness with which God views sin, particularly hypocrisy and deceit within the church. Her actions, in collusion with Ananias, were not merely a breach of trust among the community but an affront to the Holy Spirit. The immediate judgment that befell both Ananias and Sapphira underscores the holiness of God and the expectation of integrity among His people.

The account of Sapphira serves as a warning against the temptation to seek personal gain or recognition at the expense of truth and righteousness. It highlights the importance of honesty and transparency in the life of a believer and the community of faith. The fear that seized the early church following these events (Acts 5:11) reflects a renewed reverence for God's holiness and the seriousness of living a life that honors Him in all aspects.

Nave's Topical Index

Acts 5:2-10
And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet.
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Concerning the Unity of God . On the Article, I Believe in one God ...
... honour Peter, who raised up Tabitha, but struck Sapphira dead ... Baptism I dare not
describe before men and women [948 ... look upon a woman to lust after her [955] is ...
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