Podcasts about Ananias

Send us a textAn encouraging passage is when Saul of Tarsus, the great persecutor of the early church, was praying continually to God. Guilty of doing wrong to Jesus, Saul is not in a good state with his salvation. Ananias is told that God is listening to the continuous prayer of Saul. What does that mean for those who are searching and trying to understand Jesus and God? If you are inspired to speak to God, that channel is always open. This should be encouraging to anyone everywhere, that their prayers will be heard. To seek God earnestly, means He will move to open that door you are knocking on. The Bible says Jesus is standing at the door and knocks for you to open it to Him. Will you open that door to Him?=====Searching for answers to life's questions? Need help finding a church? Drop us a line. We would love to help you find a congregation that practices the love of Christ. The Extra Mile Podcast is a work of Milwaukee Ave Church of Christ in Lubbock, TX. Assembly times:9:30 AM - Classes for all ages10:30 AM - Sunday Morning Assembly5:00 PM - Sunday Evening Assembly7:00 PM - Wednesday Evening AssemblyEmail us:  the.emile.pod@gmail.comInstagram: @extramilepodcastSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/546CHn6Qvdh807yhYC5sHL?si=j6-jHRTiRh6_Non9E9URagApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-extra-mile-podcast/id1550189689Google Play: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8xMjgwNTI1LnJzcwWe would love to hear from you! Email: the.emile.pod@gmail.com Instagram: @extramilepodcast

In Week 13 of our Everyday Mission series, we explore how God often calls us into moments that stretch our faith further than is comfortable. Acts 9:1–31 shows us a powerful picture of what it looks like to trust God beyond our limits — both in Saul's dramatic transformation and in Ananias' willingness to obey even when the path seemed risky. This episode invites you to consider where God may be asking you to step out, depend on Him, and participate in His mission in ways you never imagined.For more information about Integrity Church, visit our website, http://liveintegritychurch.org Connect with us on social media throughout the week to stay up to date on events and things happening at Integrity! Instagram: @integrity_church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liveintegrity/

Daily Dose of Hope December 2, 2025   Scripture - Acts 9:1-31   Prayer: Heavenly Father, Help us start this devotional today with a time of silence, a time to pause before you...Lord, hear our prayers.  Speak to us.  We want to hear from you.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently walking through the book of Acts.  Today, we start Acts 9.   This is a great passage - Saul's conversion on the road to Damascus.  It's amazing how God took the biggest persecutor of believers and very intentionally chooses him to bring the Gospel to the Gentiles.  His conversion story is dramatic, and it really needs to be.  He doesn't strike me as the kind of person who would take hints from God.  He needs something that cannot be disputed, like the living Christ meeting him on his Damascus journey and speaking directly to him.  Then, he loses his sight, only to regain it when Ananias prays for him.  It's quite extraordinary.   Most of us are pretty familiar with Saul's conversion story but today, I'd like to focus on Ananias of Damascus.  He is the man in the shadows.  Keep in mind, there are several men named Ananias in the New Testament; we are focusing on the man in Damascus who prayed over Saul who became Paul.  What we read in Acts 9 is that God appears to Ananias in a vision and tells him to go to the house of Judas on Straight Street where he will meet Saul of Tarsus.  Ananias knew of Saul's reputation and he knew that Saul was in Damascus to arrest believers of Jesus so he protested a bit.  God tells him to go to the house anyway.   Despite being fearful, Ananias obeys.  I'm going to say that again.  Despite knowing that Saul could potentially arrest him, Ananias obeys God.  He goes to the house and prays over Saul.  Almost immediately, something like scales fall from Saul's eyes and he can see again.   We don't know much about what happens to faithful Ananias of Damascus after this incident.  The author of Acts doesn't give us a lot of information – does he go on to preach the Gospel in his community and beyond?  Does he found churches?  Does he end up getting arrested for preaching Jesus? Really, we have no idea.  What we do know is that Ananias of Damascus obeyed God's command to go pray over Saul so that Saul could go do all of those things.  Without Ananias' prayer, Saul might have spent the rest of his life as a blind man wandering around, not knowing what his life might have been.   Not everyone can be Saul/Paul, but we can all be Ananias.  We can all be obedient.  We can all pray for those who have harmed the church and those who have been harmed by the church.  We can do what God is asking us.  We don't have to found world-altering movements but we do need to do what Jesus asks us to do right now, right here. What is Jesus asking you to do?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Pastor Troy's message from Acts 5:1–11 tells how Ananias and Sapphira pretended to be fully generous while secretly holding back, leading God to judge their hypocrisy in a dramatic and immediate way. Their deaths brought a deep sense of awe and reverence to the early church, reminding everyone that God cares about honesty, purity, and the condition of the heart, not appearances. Pastor Troy emphasized that while this passage is sobering, it's meant to purify believers, not terrify them, and to call us toward authenticity, integrity, and a worshipful fear that draws us closer to God.

Pastor Troy's message from Acts 5:1–11 tells how Ananias and Sapphira pretended to be fully generous while secretly holding back, leading God to judge their hypocrisy in a dramatic and immediate way. Their deaths brought a deep sense of awe and reverence to the early church, reminding everyone that God cares about honesty, purity, and the condition of the heart, not appearances. Pastor Troy emphasized that while this passage is sobering, it's meant to purify believers, not terrify them, and to call us toward authenticity, integrity, and a worshipful fear that draws us closer to God.

When a marriage becomes a conspiracy against God, who pays the price? The story of Ananias and Sapphira shows us the devastating consequences of deceit and the profound need for the fear of God in marriage and the church. The sermon also issues a direct challenge to young men: don't pursue a culture of constant coddling. Like the young men in Acts 5 who ‘rose up' even in the face of death, be ready to do hard things in service to Jesus and his bride.Support the show

Obedience will include real suffering. This week Ian talks on the roles both Paul and Ananias had, even though it was different they are equal in God's eyes.The “go” of Acts 9 eventually leads Paul to Acts 25, where decades of ordinary obedience meet a remarkable assignment. Saying yes to Jesus isn't a guarantee of comfort; Paul's road was marked by chains, beatings, and weakness, yet in those very places God gave him his biggest platform.

Fr. Mike breaks down Saul's miraculous conversion, explaining the significance of Jesus sending Ananias to heal Saul, and how it reveals that Jesus works through his Church just as powerfully as he worked through the incarnation. Fr. Mike also reminds us that if we belong to the Lord, we will have to participate in his suffering. Lastly, as we conclude St. Paul's letter to the Romans, Fr. Mike leaves us with the exhortation that the Gospel advances primarily through family and friendship. Today's readings are Acts 9, Romans 15-16, and Proverbs 27:18-20. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

The punishment of Ananias and Sapphira from the book of Acts seems severe. They were struck dead by God for a seemingly trivial offense. Seems like a harsh punishment. But this story teaches us a very important lesson about God. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/81/29?v=20251111

This week in our Wild Invitation series, we're walking through Saul's unforgettable transformation into Paul—a story that reminds us just how powerful a true encounter with Jesus can be. We unpack what it looks like to surrender fully to the Holy Spirit, even in the areas of our lives we've held back. Through raw stories and biblical insight, we talk about how real change often begins with humility, obedience, and the courage to say yes. Whether you're craving deeper faith or wondering if God can still use your gifts, this episode will challenge and comfort you in all the right ways. In This Episode [00:00] Winter Coffee Chats + Kicking Off Acts 3 [03:10] Triggered by Bible Characters? Let's Talk Paul [07:00] Updates and a Little Behind-the-Scenes Fun [08:45] Catching Up: From Stephen's Martyrdom to Saul's Mission [11:00] The Road to Damascus: A Life-Changing Encounter [14:00] Real-Life Testimonies of Transformation [20:00] Humility, Surrender, and the Power of Saying Yes [23:30] Ananias and Why We Need Community in Our Faith [29:00] God Doesn't Waste Who You Are—He Redeems It [33:00] Final Thoughts: Transformation in Every Season ⁠⁠ORDER OUR NEW STUDY!⁠⁠⁠ This seven-week, verse-by-verse study through the book of Acts invites you to embrace the unpredictable, sometimes challenging adventure of Spirit-led living that characterized the early church. Thanks to Our Sponsors Piper and Leaf: Visit ⁠⁠⁠PiperandLeaf.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠to pick up an Advent Tea set for you or someone you love! NIV Application Study Bible - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grab your copy today!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Winshape: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more or submit your application today⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! If you'd like to partner with For The Girl as a sponsor, fill out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Advertise With Us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ form! Follow us!

Dr. Ted Traylor shares a message about the people who host thanksgiving dinner, comparing those who are genuine in their faith & love to those who are just putting on a show. He compares two married couples: Ananias & Sapphira in Acts 5 and Aquila & Priscilla in Acts 18. 00:00 - Message Introduction 05:50 - Acts 5 08:47 - Con-Artists 14:38 - Acts 18 17:10 - Christian Artisans Visit olivebaptist.org for more information.

Acts 5:1-11 | Greg Opean Packinghouse's Sunday morning worship service from November 23, 2025. In Acts 5 we step into the only church on earth—a massive newborn body full of joy, generosity, and danger from within. After Barnabas' sincere gift, Ananias and Sapphira chase image over reality, lying about their generosity to win applause, and Peter exposes it as a lie to the Holy Spirit—not about amounts, but about pretending. God subtracts their hypocrisy so He can multiply the church, because that one-upmanship, Hollywood-style image game would have killed a community meant to live by great grace. The lesson lands close: drop the mask, walk in the light, tell the truth about where you're really at, and let Jesus give you the real thing—fellowship, cleansing, rest. Enjoy what God gives, give freely as He leads, and refuse the pressure to look “more spiritual” than you are; there's one name worthy in the church, and it's Jesus. - Greg Opean - Sunday, November 23, 2025

Daily Dose of Hope November 24, 2025   Scripture - Acts 5:1-16   Prayer: Almighty God, As we move into a new week, we pray that today will be a day that we see glimpses of your glory.  We need you, we yearn for you.  Lord, help us set aside our distractions and settle our scattered thoughts so we can focus on you and you alone.  In the next few moments of silence, Lord, hear our prayers... In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the daily Bible reading plan at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  We are currently walking through the book of Acts.  Today, we are staring Acts 5, specifically the first sixteen verses.   The story of Ananias and Sapphira is kind of disturbing.  But keep in mind that this is happening within the context of the new church community.  This is a community in which people are selling all their possessions and living in unity, of the same mind and spirit.  Then, Ananias and Sapphira, in contrast, tell everyone they are selling a piece of land and giving all the profit to the church.  But they secretly keep a big chunk for themselves.  This is the thing – if they had been honest and said they were splitting the proceeds and keeping some for themselves, it would not have been a big deal.  Afterall, it was their property and their money.  They could decide how to use it.  The issue was in the deception.  Rather than being filled with the Holy Spirit (as we see in the rest of the community), they were filled with a spirit of evil.    Here is an interesting question – were Ananias and Sapphira true believers?  They probably were.  Their story is told in the context of the actions of "all the believers" in Acts 4.  They knew the Holy Spirit.  It's possible that Ananias may have earlier promised to give the whole amount of the sale of the property to the church and then they changed their mind and decided to be deceptive rather than truthful.  Maybe the best evidence that they were believers is that they were disciplined for their actions.  They wanted attention and accolades but they lied to get it.  They were even given a chance to fess up but they stuck to their lies.  As a result, they died.    It shows us that believers can be led into bold, obvious sin.  And really, don't we see this often in the church?  A respected church leader falls from grace – the inappropriate relationship, embezzled funds, something is just not right.  Satan is active and at work in our lives and we have to be on guard, prepared with the full armor of God.  You guys, spiritual warfare is real.    If this story seems harsh, it is.  You are totally right.  I've thought about this.  The church was young.  They were really setting boundaries.  The apostles were establishing their own leadership.  This was a warning to the church as a whole.  Deception and evil will not be tolerated.  We are not to look like the culture at large.  We belong to Jesus.  We reflect Jesus.    Does New Hope reflect Jesus?  What can we do better?  What can you do better?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

This sermon takes an honest look at dishonesty—how even the “little lies” we tell can break trust, hurt relationships, and pull us away from who God calls us to be. Using the story of Ananias and Sapphira, we are reminded that lying is never harmless and that truth is what connects us to Jesus, the One who is truth itself. It's a straightforward, eye-opening message about why honesty matters in real life, not just in theory.Pastor Roscoe also shares a real and vulnerable story about facing a financial crisis in a church building project, showing how tough it can be to stay truthful when the pressure is on. The message encourages listeners to drop the act, be authentic, and let God work with who they really are—not the version they pretend to be. In the end, it's a strong call to integrity: to be people whose words mean something and whose lives reflect the freedom and protection that come from choosing truth over deception.

Fr. Mike discusses the ministry of the apostles and encourages us to allow God to work in our lives in the same way. He also reminds us that through Baptism, we are set free from our fallen human nature and given the freedom to live according to the spirit. Today's readings are from Acts 5, Romans 8, and Proverbs 27:7-9. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

“Did the Miracle of the Sun actually happen?” This question opens a discussion on the authenticity of miraculous events in Catholic tradition. Other topics include the relationship between God’s will and personal manifestation, the nature of the Mass as a propitiatory sacrifice, and the significance of Ananias laying hands on St. Paul. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:35 – Did The Miracle of the Sun actually happen? 17:23 – Can we manifest what God will give us? 29:25 – If the mass is a Propitiatory sacrifice then how come mortal sin can't be forgiven during mass? 45:00 – What was the significance of Ananias laying his hands on St. Paul? 50:23 – Josephus said James was Jesus’ brother. What is the Catholic response to that?

They wanted to keep up with the rest of the congregation but forgot that you cannot lie to God. Let's talk about Ananias and Sapphira from the book of Acts.www.sitstillmydaughter.comMusic by:The Flow Of Time by Alex-Productions | https://onsound.eu/Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.comCreative Commons / Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0)https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US

A busy week of small groups, service, and shared life sets the stage for one of the most unsettling turns in the early church: the moment an enemy knocks on the door and says, “I'm with you now.” We walk through Saul's shock encounter with the risen Jesus and the identity crash that follows, then sit with Ananias' very human hesitation. Why trust someone who hurt us? What does real repentance look like? And how do we protect the vulnerable while keeping our hearts open to redemption?We unpack the historical roots of Saul's zeal as a Pharisee and why he believed he was defending God, not fighting Him. That context matters, because it shows how conviction can become a counterfeit identity—and how a holy disruption can reclaim a life. From there, we trace the tangible markers of change Scripture highlights: confession and baptism, a new public message proclaimed to old peers, time away for formation rather than a rush toward authority, and respect for boundaries set by wise leaders. With Barnabas advocating and the church staying prudent, reconciliation bears fruit: peace, growth, and a community strengthened in the fear of the Lord.Along the way, we name a hard truth for modern churches: grace without boundaries isn't love. We talk about safeguarding communities, discerning fruit over time, and holding prayer and prudence together when we're called to love our enemies. If you're wrestling with identity, trust, or the possibility that someone can really change, this conversation offers grounded hope and practical wisdom.If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs encouragement, and leave a review with one takeaway you're carrying into the week. Your words help others find this message of grace, discernment, and hope.Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at help@madisonchurch.com. For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly! If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content. This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

While many claim God killed Ananias and Sapphira, there's no evidence they were true believers, and there's no evidence that God actually killed them.

We all fake it sometimes. A little image-management here, a little hiding there—just enough to look put-together on the outside, even when something's breaking on the inside. But in Acts 5, we meet a couple whose decision to pretend becomes the most sobering moment in the early church. Not because they sinned, but because they hid. In this week's message, Pastor Scotty Scruggs walks us through the story of Ananias and Sapphira and shows why the greatest threat to our spiritual lives isn't what's “out there”—it's what we keep in the dark. You'll learn why honesty is the doorway to healing, why God takes secrecy so seriously, and the three choices that move us from managing our image to actually being transformed. If you've ever felt pressure to look more spiritual than you are, if you've ever carried a secret hoping no one will notice, or if you're tired of pretending and just want to breathe again—this message is for you. Welcome to a church where everybody's welcome, nobody's perfect, and anything's possible.

We all fake it sometimes. A little image-management here, a little hiding there—just enough to look put-together on the outside, even when something's breaking on the inside. But in Acts 5, we meet a couple whose decision to pretend becomes the most sobering moment in the early church. Not because they sinned, but because they hid. In this week's message, Pastor Scotty Scruggs walks us through the story of Ananias and Sapphira and shows why the greatest threat to our spiritual lives isn't what's “out there”—it's what we keep in the dark. You'll learn why honesty is the doorway to healing, why God takes secrecy so seriously, and the three choices that move us from managing our image to actually being transformed. If you've ever felt pressure to look more spiritual than you are, if you've ever carried a secret hoping no one will notice, or if you're tired of pretending and just want to breathe again—this message is for you. Welcome to a church where everybody's welcome, nobody's perfect, and anything's possible.

Pastor Endean centers on the vital connection between faith and truth, asserting that genuine faith in God—whose very nature is truth—naturally produces integrity and honesty, countering the pervasive deceit in both ancient cultures like Crete and modern society. Drawing from Titus 1 and the dramatic account of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5, it emphasizes that lying, even when financially motivated or seemingly harmless, is a profound spiritual offense because it defies God's character and damages the integrity of the church. Truthfulness is not merely a moral rule but a reflection of one's relationship with God, rooted in the biblical teaching that God cannot lie and that believers are called to be truthful in speech, motive, and action, rejecting hypocrisy, flattery, gossip, and deceitful intent. Pastor Endean warns that a culture that embraces relativism and self-deception ultimately leads to spiritual ruin, while faith in Christ empowers believers to live with authenticity, confess sin, and stand firm in truth as a mark of sanctification and worship. Ultimately, the call is to live as people of integrity, reflecting the God of truth in a world marked by falsehood, where honesty is not optional but essential to a life of faith and witness.

Pastor Bob's message, “Radical Generosity,” illustrates the remarkable unity of the early church in Acts 4:32–5:16, where believers were of one heart and soul, sharing everything they had as a bold witness of their faith. Bob emphasizes that true generosity is more than the action of giving; it's a reflection of a heart, flowing naturally from our relationship with a God who provides abundantly. Through the story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5, we're challenged to walk in authenticity and integrity, avoiding the dangers of hypocrisy and embracing a life of honest devotion.

In this episode of The Leader's Notebook, I continue our series, Also Featured in the Cast, with a look at the Apostle Paul—not as the star of the story, but through the lives of three people who shaped his journey: Ananias, Barnabas, and Stephen. Each of these men was “also mentioned in the cast,” yet each played an indispensable role in God's plan. Ananias obeyed a terrifying call to reach out to a persecutor. Barnabas became the encourager who restored others when no one else would. And Stephen's Christlike suffering sowed the seeds of Paul's conversion. Their stories remind us that God often works through ordinary people in unseen moments—and that our obedience, compassion, and faithfulness may change lives in ways we'll never fully know. – Dr. Mark Rutland Chapters (00:00:03) - The Leaders Notebook(00:00:25) - The Unfamiliar Margaret Hamilton(00:02:18) - Acts 4, The Son of Exclamation(00:06:30) - Three Disciples of Paul the Apostle(00:13:24) - The crazy old Welshman from Port St. Joe(00:16:51) - Barnabas and Saul of Tarsus(00:22:30) - The Life of Barnabas(00:26:46) - Paul the Apostle and Saul of Tarsus(00:32:54) - Suffering in the Gospel(00:37:59) - The Leader's Notebook

The early church was marked by wholehearted devotion — unity, generosity, honesty, and awe before a holy God.But the story of Ananias and Sapphira reminds us: God is not interested in partial obedience, spiritual performance, or selective surrender.God wants the whole heart — not the edited, filtered, Sunday-only version.Before you listen, take a moment to slow down and prepare:⸻

Acts 9:1-22But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.” The men who were traveling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. Saul rose from the ground, and although his eyes were opened, he saw nothing. So they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. And for three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank.Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” And the Lord said to him, “Rise and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul, for behold, he is praying, and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight.” But Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem. And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on your name.” But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.” So Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he rose and was baptized; and taking food, he was strengthened. For some days he was with the disciples at Damascus.  And immediately he proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues, saying, “He is the Son of God.” And all who heard him were amazed and said, “Is not this the man who made havoc in Jerusalem of those who called upon this name? And has he not come here for this purpose, to bring them bound before the chief priests?” But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus was the Christ.

The early church was beginning to earn respect. The apostles were giving powerful witness to the resurrection of Jesus, and God's grace was evident in the way the members took care of each other like family. But when Ananias and Sapphira attempted to undermine the sacredness of the church, they paid for it with their lives.

The early church provides powerful examples of faithful and unfaithful giving through Barnabas and Ananias and Sapphira. Barnabas demonstrated Spirit-led generosity that became the foundation for his world-changing ministry, while Ananias and Sapphira's deception served as a warning about lying to the Holy Spirit. Faithful giving flows from three key principles: it's a disposition of the heart rather than a calculated decision, it's motivated by love for the church body rather than personal impulses, and it's directed by the Holy Spirit rather than driven by emotions. Our giving patterns reveal what we truly believe about God's ownership, provision, and trustworthiness. When we give faithfully like Barnabas, we position ourselves for greater ministry opportunities and align our hearts with God's purposes.

Do the ends justify the means? Ananias and the elders bear false witness, revealing their true motivation. Paul, amid false accusations, continues to be a calm and clear witness to the truth. Felix, needing to make a decision, chooses personal gain over the truth. Paul continues to bear faithful witness, sharing the Gospel and trusting in God.

Acts 23 tells of Paul before the Sanhedrin. In a similar way to when our Lord Jesus Christ appears before them, the hearing commences with an illegality from the High Priest, Ananias. That corrupt priest commands that the Apostle be smitten on the cheek - this is contrary to the Law of Moses. Paul reacts to this violation by saying that God would in His time smite the high priest. For this answer Paul is rebuked by those of the Council. The Apostle says he had not recognised the high priest. This seems unusual as in Acts 9 this high priest had given letters to Paul authorising the persecution at Damascus. Some such as Ramsay have suggested Paul's eyesight was poor, due to malaria possibly contracted on his first missionary journey. Others suggest that this is in fact a rebuttal of the high priest's right to hold that office. Paul undoubtedly had poor eyesight as many of his letters attest e.g. Galatians 6verses11. The Apostle sees the impossibility of him getting a fair trial and so he divides the Council on the question of the teaching of the Scriptures regarding the raising of the dead. Verse 8 tells us of the difference in teaching between the Pharisees and the Sadducees. Verse 10 informs us that the disagreement became violent. Paul is once again rescued. Paul's sister's son learns of a plot to assassinate Paul and informs the chief captain. The chief captain immediately responds by sending Paul to Felix the Roman Governor in Caesarea with a heavily armed escort - a journey of two days. This heavily armed company carry with them a letter explaining why the Chief Captain has taken these measures. Chapter 24 speaks of Paul before Felix and of the flattering orator the Jews hired to prosecute the Apostle. The Apostle defends each charge magnificently. Paul points out that he came to Jerusalem for worship and to bring charitable gifts for his nation. The aged Apostle also is a Pharisee. The Pharisaic teachings were an allowable teaching among the Jews. Felix finds himself in a difficult place having some understanding of the teachings of the Way (an early name for believers in Christ Jesus). Felix detains Paul not wanting to fall out of favour with the Jews. Paul is provided with protection and liberty. Having heard of Paul's bringing charity to his fellow Jews Felix hopes to secure a bribe. Felix becomes very disturbed knowing that since he understands the reality of the coming judgment and that he would be subject to the judgment of God. Felix's life makes it certain that he will be rejected when that judgment comes. After two years Rome replaces Governor Felix with Governor Festus. Festus maintains Paul's imprisonment to please the Jews.

In this Bible Story, the evil intentions of Saul the persecutor is thwarted by the presence of Jesus himself. As Saul is on the road to drag Christians out of their homes and imprison them, Jesus throws him off his horse and blinds him. For three days, Saul wept in darkness. But his sight is restored, and he could see the true light of Christ. This story is inspired by Acts 9:1-31. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Acts 9:4 from the King James Version.Episode 223: Saul, filled with rage, was a force against all who claimed the name of Christ. He was on his way to Damascus to gather any Christians he could find there to be tried and executed. While traveling, a light brighter than anything he had ever known appeared before him, and out of this light spoke the voice of Jesus. Blinded by the light, Saul was led by his companions to a house in Damascus. There he would wait for three days until Ananias was sent by God to heal and restore him. From that time on, he began to teach the people the message of Christ instead.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The sermon emphasizes that all unrighteousness is sin in God's sight, rejecting the notion that some sins are minor or permissible, regardless of their earthly consequences. It underscores the seriousness of sin through biblical examples like Ananias and Sapphira, the Corinthians who died due to irreverent conduct at the Lord's Table, and the danger of harboring a judgmental spirit toward others. While acknowledging the existence of sin unto physical death, the message clarifies that such cases are rare and not to be prayed for, as the Christian's role is not to seek divine judgment but to intercede for repentance and restoration. The preacher calls believers to reject worldly classifications of sin, reminding them that every transgression—whether lying, lust, disobedience, or hypocrisy—violates God's holiness and demands a holy response. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a heart posture of humility, recognizing that Christ's blood was shed for every sin, and that true righteousness is found in obedience to God's Word and holiness of life.

The sermon explores the distinction between sins that are 'not unto death' and those that are, emphasizing the believer's responsibility to intercede prayerfully for fellow Christians caught in habitual sin, while recognizing that some sins carry immediate physical consequences. Drawing from 1 John 5:16–17, it clarifies that 'death' here refers to physical death, not eternal separation from God, and underscores the importance of loving others as Christ loved, with compassion and urgency. The preacher highlights examples such as Ananias and Sapphira, drunk worshipers in Corinth, and King Saul to illustrate sins that resulted in divine judgment, while affirming that believers should not pray for such deaths but instead seek repentance and restoration. The tone is pastoral and instructive, calling the church to active, loving accountability without condemnation, rooted in the truth that God values repentance over punishment. Ultimately, the message affirms the believer's confidence in prayer and the power of intercession to restore a brother or sister in Christ.

In this Bible Story, Ananias and Saphira are struck down for their false sense of holiness and charity. They feign generosity to look holy, and pay dearly for their deception. This story is inspired by Acts 4:32-5:16. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Acts 5:3 from the King James Version.Episode 219: As the new family of Jesus was being formed, men and women shared each others burdens and resources, widows and orphans were taken care of, and the bond of love between them all was growing. Unfortunately, even in this utopia greed worked its way into a few hearts. Ananias and his wife Saphira sold some property to look generous to others. But when they gave the money to the family of believers, they lied and kept some of the money back for themselves. They were behaving like the figtree that showed leaves but bore no fruit. And just like that fig tree, they would die for their deception.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tony takes us on a deep dive into the story of Ananias & Sapphira. What we really need to see is what we normally do not see, the unseen/supernatural world. What is actually going on is between Satan and God.

Acts 9:1-191 Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord's disciples. He went to the high priest 2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. 3 As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4 He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”5 “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. 6 “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”7 The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone. 8 Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. 9 For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.10 In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, “Ananias!” “Yes, Lord,” he answered.11 The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. 12 In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.”13 “Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem. 14 And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.”15 But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. 16 I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”17 Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, 19 and after taking some food, he regained his strength.

In this message, Pastor Bill Francavilla reminds us that God's family was never meant to look the same. Each of us has unique gifts, callings, and personalities. But all serve one purpose: to glorify God.From Paul's bold ministry to Ananias' quiet obedience, we see that greatness in the Kingdom isn't measured by fame but by faithfulness. Whether you're a Paul preaching to the nations or an Ananias reaching one person at a time, your obedience matters.Let's stop comparing and start obeying, because one act of obedience can change a life.#Faith #Obedience #LivingHopeChurch #TheRockSeries #DifferentGiftsOneBodyWelcome to Living Hope Church! These podcasts are our weekly Sunday sermons. We hope you enjoy them.

How should believers respond to the power of God? In Acts 5:1–16, we witness both the sobering judgment of God and His overwhelming grace. Through the story of Ananias and Sapphira and the miraculous works done through the apostles, Scripture reminds us that signs and wonders are purposeful — they produce a holy fear of God and point us to the transforming power of the gospel. God is not only mighty to heal bodies, but to change hearts and bring sinners from darkness to light.

Here is a fresh perspective on probably the most famous conversion of them all, recorded in Acts 9:1-19, Saul of Tarsus. This was a man who had an experience of religion, but needed a personal experience with God - and we all need this! We need to have an ongoing experience of encounters with the Lord. This is how Saul's started - but though it was sudden, it was the beginning of a life-long journey. There's also an interesting healing that takes place, when Saul receives his sight again through the hands of an ordinary disciple named Ananias. Join us for some wonderful lessons here on God's kingdom! This message is available at https://www.preachtheword.com now in MP3 audio format...

Staff Meeting: Lessons From Ananias - Pastor Annie Bullard (10/28/2025) by Word of Life Assembly of God

2 Chronicles 29 says that Hezekiah was 25 when he began to rule and reigned for 29 years. Hezekiah walks in the ways of David (his spiritual father). Hezekiah was Judah's greatest ever king - read the testimony in 2 Kings 18 verse 5. This king cleanses the temple from the filth of his father, Ahaz. The Levites had to assist the priests with the task. Note the power of the words of verse 17 - the dedicated work began on the first day of his first month. They prepare for the Passover massive sacrifices and the offerings began as the music of praise and worship began. Seventy bulls were offered representing the 70 nations (Deuteronomy 32:8). Despite the suddenness of what the king did the people rejoiced and supported the Feast.Daniel 9 tells of the prophet's sadness when he realises that the exiles would be in Babylon for 70 years as spoken by Jeremiah in chapter 25. From verses 3-19 Daniel in his prayer confesses his sin and that of the nation expressing that they deserve what had befallen them. From the time he commences praying the angel Gabriel is sent to the beloved prophet to give him understanding of what is termed "the 70 weeks prophecy". That prophecy concerns the work of the Lord Jesus Christ - Messiah the Prince to bring in a "righteousness of the ages". The work is completed between AD30 with the crucifixion and the 70 weeks ending in AD32 with the stoning of Stephen. Each of the segments mentioned can be precisely dated from the archaeological records which exist. Because of the great sin of the nation in crucifying the Lord of glory and refusing the short period provided for repentance Rome would come and destroy Jerusalem. The year was AD33 when we read in Acts 9 of the conversion of Saul of Tarsus. Saul is seeking to destroy the believers in Christ who dwelt in Damascus. Saul presses on as the fierce Syrian sun burns brightly in the sky. Saul is blinded by a light stronger than the sun and he is stirred by a voice that he may well have known, "Saul, Saul why are you persecuting me?" The Syriac Pashito, whose phrase, "It is hard for you to kick against the goads" is added to the English KJV. Saul's response is, "Who are you Lord?" With his eyes blinded and his mind in total turmoil and his entire world view turned upside down (as would be said of him in Acts 17:6) he is led by the hand into the city to await instructions. For three days Saul neither ate nor drank. Ananias is told to go to Saul to lay hands on him to recover Saul's sight. Ananias is further told of Saul's mission which Almighty God has marked out for him. Saul is a chosen vessel to take Christ's message before kings. Ananias goes to the street which ironically named "Straight". Ramsay says in his book that it was the most crooked street in all Damascus. Ananias courageously lays his hands on Saul and restores his sight and imparts to Saul the Holy Spirit. Saul preaches Jesus in the Damascene synagogues to the astonishment of all. From there Saul goes to Jerusalem and seeks association with the believers, who shun him believing that Saul is using a ruse to get among them. Respite from persecution is granted to the ecclesias. Peter heals Aeneas at Lydda slightly inland from Joppa; then at Joppa he is shown the clothes that Dorcas had made for the widows and orphans before her decease. Peter raises her to life to continue her work and from there Peter he goes to the house of Simon the tanner. We might pose a question: Did Peter go to the house of a tanner to prepare himself to accept that ceremonial uncleanness was no longer relevant as we will see in our reading tomorrow from Acts 10?Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

In this stream I am joined by Fr. Deacon Dr. Ananias to discuss all things philosophy and critique the short comings of modern philosophy. Make sure to check it out and let me know what you think. God bless Sign up for the conference here! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/athens-jerusalem-orthodox-art-philosophy-life-tickets-1598008298839

1 Timothy 3:15-16 is based on Daniel 6. Acts 4 spoke of Barnabas' generous act in selling land and donating the proceeds to the ecclesial common cause. Barnabas may well have been the rich young ruler of Matthew 19. In Acts 5 couple named: Ananias and Sapphira, want the ecclesia's acclaim without giving all of the proceeds of their sale of land. It was their right to do with their money as they pleased. Their sin lay in lying - attempting to deceive God and other believers. It cost them their lives and was a great wake-up call to the ecclesia. We are told from verse 12 of the mighty signs that support the Apostles' preaching The chapter says that Peter and John are arrested and put in the public prison overnight. The angel of the Lord comes and releases those 2 Apostles and tells them to continue to proclaim "the words of life". At daybreak Peter and John were enthusiastically preaching in the temple. The Apostles are rearrested by the officers, but this time quietly for fear of the people and once more the Jewish Council forbids them to preach full stop. The Apostles' answer in verse 29 is a message to believers for all time, "We must obey God rather than men". Their bold testimony was an evidence that they were Jesus' disciples. Gamaliel counsels his peers to desist from opposing, or harming, the Apostles, since historical evidence - Gamaliel asserts - always showed that what was not from God was doomed to fail. In chapter 6 we have a complaint from the Hellenistic believers that their widows were not being treated fairly in the daily distribution of help. Seven faithful believers of Grecian background were chosen to rectify the matter. One of the seven, Stephen, was seized by the Jewish rulers and falsely accused of speaking words against Moses and the temple. False witnesses are secured and tell lies against Stephen. Those members of the Council behold Stephen's angelic appearance and demeanour.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

In this sermon we look at the second summary statement, thus far in Acts, about this newborn church. They prove to be remarkably unified and sacrificial for these early days of the new community. However, as with all churches, not without sin. Luke includes an episode where Ananias and Sapphire lie to Peter about how much they are giving and they lose their lives because of it. 

This week, we continue with our Why Church? series. In chapter 5:1-11 of Acts, we see Ananias and Sapphira sell a piece of property and keep back some of the money for themselves. Peter confronts them about their deceit, and they end up dying as a result. Pastor Eric gives us three warnings against half-heartedness, and a call to be “all in” with God from the text: 1) Half-heartedness in truth 2) Half-heartedness in marriage 3) Half-heartedness in generosity 4) Fear the Lord and run to God's grace

What if the greatest danger in our giving isn't how much we give—but why we give? In this episode, Bob and Linda unpack one of the most shocking stories in Acts 5: the tale of Ananias and Sapphira. Why did God respond so severely—and what does it reveal about our own struggles with wealth, legacy, and generosity? Together, we wrestle with the tension between leaving an inheritance (Proverbs 13:22) and practicing radical generosity (Acts 4, Matthew 6:33). You'll hear how this tension has played out in our own finances, and we'll share a 4-part framework to help you align your money with God's priorities—without guilt, fear, or legalism.   What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why the story of Ananias & Sapphira still convicts believers today. The hidden danger of looking generous versus being generous. How Barnabas modeled the right heart posture in giving. 4-part biblical framework for wealth + generosity: Provide, Preserve, Prioritize, Pivot. Practical questions to evaluate your heart when it comes to money   Scripture Anchors (NLT): Acts 5:1–11 — The sobering story of Ananias & Sapphira. Proverbs 13:22 — “Good people leave an inheritance to their grandchildren…” Matthew 6:33 — “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else…” 1 Timothy 5:8 — “Those who won't care for their relatives… have denied the true faith.”   Listen & Share: If this conversation challenged you, would you share it with a friend? Let's normalize radical obedience and kingdom generosity in today's world. Watch this episode on our SeedTime Money Podcast YouTube channel! (https://youtu.be/_AonHZ0jWnk)   BONUS: Ever dreamt of hanging out with us for 6 weeks in your small group or church? Head to https://seedtime.com/true for details or shoot us a DM on Instagram (http://instagram.com/seedtime). If you haven't checked out our best-selling book Simple Money, Rich Life (https://seedtime.com/smrl/), we think you'll love it. It was named the 2022 Book of the Year by ICFH and has over 1,000 5-star reviews on Amazon, and is best described as “a money book for people who don't read money books.”  You can take it for a test drive for FREE at https://SeedTime.com/sample where you can download chapter 1 of the audiobook, grab the 1st 2 chapters of the ebook version, and even get the 5-week book study companion guide.

Verse by verse study through the book of Acts Chapter Five and Verse Seven

Everyone wants favor—but not everyone walks in it. ET breaks down the difference between being God's favorite and actually living favored. The key? Non-negotiables. Daniel prayed three times a day even when a law said not to (Daniel 6). Ananias and Sapphira said “yes” with their mouths but negotiated the covenant with their hearts (Acts 5). In this message, you'll learn: - Why modifying God's instructions cancels momentum - How to set spiritual non-negotiables (prayer, integrity, obedience) - The trap of “I'll obey…until it costs me” - Why favor follows alignment, not popularity or connections If you're tired of praying without progress, this is for you. Lock in your non-negotiables, and watch God do what men can't.

Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible for Kids! In today's episode, Hunter takes us on a journey through a dramatic moment in the Bible—the story of Saul's incredible transformation on the road to Damascus. Saul was once known for wanting to put Christians in prison, but God had a different plan for his life. As Hunter reads from Acts chapter 9, we discover how a miraculous encounter with Jesus changed Saul's heart forever, opening his eyes to God's endless love for everyone. Tune in as we explore how meeting Jesus can change even the hardest hearts, reminding us all that we are deeply loved—no doubt about it. DRB Kids  is a part of the one year Bible family of podcasts from the Daily Radio Bible. DRB Kids is a daily Bible reading podcast for kids. Children and families around the world gather to listen to amazing stories from the Bible. These short 5 minute podcasts will encourage your family, inspire your children, and help root your Child's life in the story of God's love for the world.    Find out more at www.drbkids.com   Hi there Daily Bible friends! It's another wonderful day, and that means we've got a brand new episode of the Daily Radio Bible for Kids to share with you! In today's episode (October 16th), Hunter takes us on a journey through one of the most incredible stories in the Bible: the life-changing encounter of Saul on the road to Damascus. Here's what we covered today: A Surprising Plan Saul started out as someone you definitely wouldn't want to meet if you were a Christian. He was determined to find and arrest followers of Jesus. But God had something amazing in store for Saul—something that would completely turn his life around! A Very Bright Light As Saul got close to Damascus, something extraordinary happened. A bright light shone all around him, and he heard a voice: “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” It was Jesus Himself speaking! From that moment on, Saul's heart and his whole life began to change. A Friend Named Ananias While Saul was blind and trying to make sense of what happened, God sent Ananias to find him. Even though Ananias was scared, he trusted God and helped Saul regain his sight. What a brave act of kindness! A Brand New Beginning When Ananias laid his hands on Saul, something like scales fell from his eyes. Saul could see again—both with his eyes, and also with his heart. He realized just how big God's love is, not just for some, but for everyone! A Message for Us Today's story reminds us that God's love can reach anyone and change any heart. No matter where you are or what you've done, you are loved. No doubt about it! Thanks for spending another day in the Bible with us! Hunter will be back tomorrow for another adventure in God's word. Until then, let's go forward in God's joy—and remember: you are loved. Talk to you soon. Hunter DONATE TO THE PODCAST to help kids around the world recieve these podcasts free everyday.  Thanks! Listen to the Bible in a Year  HERE on Spotify HERE on itunes Podcast Listen to our Daily Proverb Podcast HERE on Spotify HERE on itunes Podcasts Leave us a voicemail here: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible email Hunter for more information: hunter@dailyradiobible.com