The following series is based on a book written by Jeremy and Sushma Ballard, “Is Your Home a Jesus Home?” The book is available for purchase on Amazon (Paperback & eBook), Barnes & Noble (Paperback & eBook), and Apple Books (eBook). Every purchase helps to support Jesus Home Ministries and the work Jeremy and Sushma are doing.
We’ve explored how the roles of men and women complement each other in marriage, but it’s equally important to recognize the dangers when unity in marriage turns into complicity in sin. The story of Ananias and Sapphira offers a sobering lesson on the consequences of agreeing to do wrong together.
Read Acts 5:1-11
As the early church grew, many believers sold their possessions to support those in need, demonstrating a spirit of generosity and communal care. Ananias and Sapphira also sold a piece of land with the intention of donating part of the proceeds. However, their actions took a deceitful turn—they conspired to present a false amount, keeping a portion for themselves while pretending to give all.
This deceit was not just a lie to the apostles, but a lie to God Himself. Their desire to appear more generous than they were, all while secretly holding back for personal gain, revealed a deep-seated selfishness. The couple’s collusion in this sin made them partners in deception rather than in righteousness.
Satan exploited this vulnerability, filling their hearts with deceit. Just as Adam and Eve succumbed to temptation in the Garden of Eden, Ananias and Sapphira yielded to the lure of dishonesty. Their failure to resist the devil’s influence highlights the importance of standing firm against temptation, as James 4:7 urges us to do.
The consequences of their sin were immediate and severe. By lying to the apostles, they lied to the Holy Spirit, and as a result, both lost their lives. This tragic outcome was not just a punishment but a powerful message to the early church: God takes sin seriously, and deceit, especially within the community of believers, has dire consequences.
This story also serves as a crucial reminder for marriages today. While supporting our spouses is vital, this support must never extend to condoning or enabling sinful behavior. True love in marriage means upholding integrity and accountability, even when it’s difficult. Sometimes, love requires us to confront our spouse’s wrongdoing, for the sake of their soul and the sanctity of the marriage.
God is an integral part of every marriage, and maintaining righteousness is paramount. When we put God’s principles first, we create a foundation of trust and integrity that strengthens the marriage bond and honors God.
Join us next time as we explore the significance of prioritizing righteousness, regardless of our spouse’s actions, and how this commitment can transform and protect your marriage.
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