Living in the Power and Purity of the Spirit

Before You Study

Read This First

The book of Acts continues the story of Jesus’ followers after His resurrection and ascension, focusing on the growth of the early church empowered by the Holy Spirit. Prior chapters describe the coming of the Spirit at Pentecost and the initial expansion of the church in Jerusalem. Acts 5 occurs during a critical time when the church is rapidly growing but also facing internal and external challenges. Understanding the cultural and religious tensions between the Jewish leaders and the new Christian movement helps us grasp the significance of the events in this chapter. This context reveals how God’s holiness and justice shape the community and how the apostles courageously advance the gospel despite persecution.

What You'll Learn

• The seriousness of deceit within the church and God’s holiness in judging sin, as seen in Ananias and Sapphira’s story.
• How the early church experienced God’s miraculous power through signs, wonders, and healings confirming the apostles’ message.
• The growing opposition from Jewish religious leaders and their attempts to suppress the apostles’ teaching.
• The boldness of the apostles in obeying God rather than human authorities, even under threat of imprisonment and violence.
• The wise counsel of Gamaliel, illustrating a cautious approach to dealing with the church and recognizing God’s hand in its growth.
• The early church’s commitment to daily teaching and fellowship, demonstrating the power of unified witness in spreading the gospel.

God’s holiness demands truth and obedience, empowering the church to witness boldly amid opposition.

Bible Translation Note: All Scripture on this page is quoted from the King James Version (KJV) and presented in full without alteration.

Acts 5:1 But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession,

Acts 5:2 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.

Acts 5:3 But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?

Acts 5:4 Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.

Acts 5:5 And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things.

Acts 5:6 And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him.

Acts 5:7 And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in.

Acts 5:8 And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much.

Acts 5:9 Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out.

Acts 5:10 Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband.

Acts 5:11 And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard these things.

Acts 5:12 And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon’s porch.

Acts 5:13 And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them.

Acts 5:14 And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.)

Acts 5:15 Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them.

Acts 5:16 There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.

Acts 5:17 Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation,

Acts 5:18 And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison.

Acts 5:19 But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said,

Acts 5:20 Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life.

Acts 5:21 And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel and sent to the prison to have them brought.

Acts 5:22 But when the officers came, and found them not in the prison, they returned, and told,

Acts 5:23 Saying, The prison truly found we shut with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we had opened, we found no man within.

Acts 5:24 Now when the high priest and the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these things, they doubted of them whereunto this would grow.

Acts 5:25 Then came one and told them, saying, Behold, the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people.

Acts 5:26 Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned.

Acts 5:27 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them,

Acts 5:28 Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man’s blood upon us.

Acts 5:29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.

Acts 5:30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree.

Acts 5:31 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.

Acts 5:32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.

Acts 5:33 When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them.

Acts 5:34 Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space;

Acts 5:35 And said unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men.

Acts 5:36 For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to nought.

Acts 5:37 After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed.

Acts 5:38 And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought:

Acts 5:39 But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.

Acts 5:40 And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.

Acts 5:41 And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.

Acts 5:42 And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.

Acts 5:1

But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession,

Study: Ananias and Sapphira’s decision to sell property and withhold part of the proceeds introduces a serious breach of trust within the early church. This act of deceit contrasts sharply with the community’s spirit of generosity and unity, highlighting the covenant call to honesty before God and others.

Acts 5:2

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.

Study: By bringing only part of the money to the apostles, Ananias and Sapphira attempted to appear generous while secretly keeping back some for themselves. Their collusion reveals a deliberate attempt to deceive the church and the Holy Spirit, showing how sin can undermine the purity and witness of God’s people.

Acts 5:3

But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?

Study: Peter confronts Ananias directly, exposing Satan’s influence in filling his heart with lies against the Holy Ghost. This highlights the spiritual battle behind sin and the seriousness of lying not just to people but to God Himself, emphasizing the sacredness of truth in the Spirit-filled community.

Acts 5:4

Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.

Study: Peter’s words remind Ananias that the land and money were his to control, underscoring that the sin was in the deceitful intent, not the act of selling. This verse teaches that God judges the heart’s motives, not merely outward actions, reinforcing the covenant demand for sincere worship and honesty.

Acts 5:5

And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things.

Study: Ananias’ sudden death after Peter’s rebuke demonstrates God’s immediate judgment on sin within His holy community. The resulting fear among the believers underscores the seriousness with which God treats sin and the need for reverence and purity in the church.

Acts 5:6

And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him.

Study: The young men’s role in carrying out Ananias’ body reflects the community’s responsibility to handle sin’s consequences respectfully. This act also shows the tangible reality of God’s holiness and justice working visibly among His people.

Acts 5:7

And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in.

Study: Sapphira’s ignorance of her husband’s fate sets the stage for her own testing, illustrating how sin can entangle others and the importance of individual accountability before God.

Acts 5:8

And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much.

Study: Peter questions Sapphira about the sale price, giving her an opportunity to confess. Her affirmation of the false amount reveals her complicity and willingness to continue the deception, showing how sin often involves conscious choice.

Acts 5:9

Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out.

Study: Peter accuses Sapphira of tempting the Spirit of the Lord, a grave offense that shows the Spirit’s role in guiding and guarding the church’s purity. The reference to the men who buried her husband at the door serves as a stark warning of the consequences of sin.

Acts 5:10

Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband.

Study: Sapphira’s immediate death after Peter’s rebuke confirms God’s consistent judgment on deceit and hypocrisy. Her burial beside her husband symbolizes the shared guilt and the devastating impact of sin on the community.

Acts 5:11

And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard these things.

Study: The fear that fell upon the church and all who heard these events reflects a profound reverence for God’s holiness. This fear is not mere terror but a healthy awe that preserves the community’s purity and respect for God’s standards.

Acts 5:12

And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon’s porch.

Study: The apostles’ ministry is marked by many signs and wonders, confirming their divine authority and the truth of their message. Their unity in Solomon’s porch highlights the importance of communal worship and shared mission in the early church.

Acts 5:13

And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them.

Study: Despite the miracles, many people remained hesitant to join the believers, showing the social risks and pressures involved in following Christ. Yet, the reputation of the apostles grew, demonstrating how God’s power can overcome human fear and opposition.

Acts 5:14

And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.)

Study: The increase in believers, both men and women, indicates the gospel’s broad appeal and the Spirit’s work in drawing diverse people into God’s kingdom. This growth fulfills Jesus’ promise of a multiplying church.

Acts 5:15

Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them.

Study: The practice of bringing the sick into the streets so Peter’s shadow might heal them shows the deep faith of the people and God’s gracious provision of healing. This also illustrates the tangible impact of the apostles’ ministry on the community.

Acts 5:16

There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.

Study: People from surrounding cities bringing the sick and demon-possessed to Jerusalem highlights the expanding influence of the early church and God’s power over sickness and evil spirits, affirming Jesus’ authority through His followers.

Acts 5:17

Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation,

Study: The high priest and Sadducees’ indignation reveals the religious leaders’ growing hostility toward the apostles and the threat the gospel posed to their authority and traditions.

Acts 5:18

And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison.

Study: The apostles’ imprisonment by the religious leaders shows the escalating persecution faced by the church and the authorities’ attempt to silence the gospel’s spread.

Acts 5:19

But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said,

Study: God’s intervention through an angel who frees the apostles demonstrates His sovereign protection and the futility of human efforts to hinder His mission.

Acts 5:20

Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life.

Study: The angel’s command to continue preaching ‘all the words of this life’ emphasizes the centrality of the gospel message and the apostles’ obedience to God’s call despite opposition.

Acts 5:21

And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel and sent to the prison to have them brought.

Study: The apostles’ immediate return to teaching in the temple shows their boldness and commitment to public witness, fulfilling Jesus’ instruction to be His witnesses in Jerusalem.

Acts 5:22

But when the officers came, and found them not in the prison, they returned, and told,

Study: The authorities’ surprise at finding the prison empty highlights God’s power to deliver His servants and the growing frustration of the religious leaders.

Acts 5:23

Saying, The prison truly found we shut with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we had opened, we found no man within.

Study: The detailed report of the secure prison and guards underscores the miraculous nature of the apostles’ escape, affirming God’s direct involvement.

Acts 5:24

Now when the high priest and the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these things, they doubted of them whereunto this would grow.

Study: The leaders’ uncertainty about how to handle the apostles reflects the tension between their desire to stop the gospel and the undeniable evidence of God’s hand.

Acts 5:25

Then came one and told them, saying, Behold, the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people.

Study: The report of the apostles teaching in the temple despite imprisonment shows their fearless dedication and God’s unstoppable plan for the church.

Acts 5:26

Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned.

Study: The officers’ gentle treatment of the apostles, fearing the people’s reaction, reveals the growing public support for the church and the limits of religious authority.

Acts 5:27

And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them,

Study: The apostles’ appearance before the council marks a pivotal confrontation between God’s kingdom and earthly powers, setting the stage for a bold defense of the gospel.

Acts 5:28

Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man’s blood upon us.

Study: The high priest’s accusation that the apostles disobeyed orders and filled Jerusalem with their doctrine shows the religious leaders’ fear of losing control and their misunderstanding of God’s work.

Acts 5:29

Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.

Study: Peter’s declaration to obey God rather than men asserts the supremacy of divine authority and the apostles’ unwavering commitment to proclaiming Jesus despite threats.

Acts 5:30

The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree.

Study: Peter reminds the council that God raised Jesus, whom they crucified, affirming the resurrection as the foundation of the apostles’ message and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.

Acts 5:31

Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.

Study: Jesus’ exaltation as Prince and Saviour to give repentance and forgiveness highlights His unique role in God’s covenant promises and the hope offered to Israel and all nations.

Acts 5:32

And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.

Study: The apostles and the Holy Ghost testify to the truth of Jesus’ resurrection and mission, showing the Spirit’s ongoing work in empowering and confirming the church’s witness.

Acts 5:33

When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them.

Study: The council’s anger and plot to kill the apostles reveal the persistent opposition to God’s kingdom and the cost of faithful witness.

Acts 5:34

Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space;

Study: Gamaliel’s intervention introduces a voice of wisdom and caution, reminding the council to consider the possibility that the apostles’ work is from God and not to act rashly.

Acts 5:35

And said unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men.

Study: Gamaliel recalls past failed movements like Theudas, illustrating the temporary nature of human schemes and the importance of discerning God’s hand in events.

Acts 5:36

For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to nought.

Study: The example of Judas of Galilee’s failed rebellion further supports Gamaliel’s argument that human efforts against God’s purposes ultimately fail.

Acts 5:37

After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed.

Study: Acts 5:37 references Judas of Galilee, a historical figure who led a revolt against Roman taxation around the time of the census under Quirinius (Luke 2:2). His uprising is mentioned to contrast with the Pharisees' and Sadducees' resistance to the apostles, highlighting the futility of rebellion against God's sovereign plan. Judas' failure and the dispersal of his followers illustrate the transient nature of political resistance compared to the enduring spread of the gospel. This verse underscores God's providence in preserving His church despite human opposition, reminding believers to trust God's timing and methods rather than resorting to worldly rebellion.

Acts 5:38

And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought:

Study: Gamaliel advises the council to leave the apostles alone, teaching that if their work is human, it will fail, but if it is from God, opposing it means fighting against God Himself.

Acts 5:39

But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.

Study: This warning underscores the sovereignty of God over human affairs and the futility of resisting His will, encouraging respect for divine authority.

Acts 5:40

And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.

Study: Though the apostles are beaten and ordered not to speak in Jesus’ name, their release shows the limits of persecution and God’s protection over His witnesses.

Acts 5:41

And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.

Study: The apostles’ rejoicing in suffering for Jesus’ name reveals their deep faith and understanding that persecution is a privilege in God’s kingdom.

Acts 5:42

And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.

Study: The apostles’ daily teaching in the temple and homes demonstrates their relentless commitment to spreading the gospel and building the church through both public and personal ministry.

Acts 5 captures a dramatic moment in the early church marked by God’s holiness, miraculous power, and the apostles’ bold witness. The story of Ananias and Sapphira warns against deceit and hypocrisy, emphasizing the seriousness of sin within God’s covenant community. Despite growing opposition from religious leaders, the apostles continue to preach Jesus boldly, empowered by the Holy Spirit and protected by God’s miraculous intervention. Wise counsel from Gamaliel reminds the council of God’s sovereignty over human plans. The chapter closes with the church’s joyful endurance of suffering and steadfast commitment to proclaiming Christ daily.

Lord, help us to live with integrity and reverence for Your holiness, avoiding deceit and hypocrisy in our lives. Strengthen our faith to obey You above all else, even when faced with opposition. Empower us by Your Spirit to boldly witness to Jesus and to rejoice in suffering for Your name. May Your kingdom grow through our faithful witness and unity. Amen.

• Pray daily for boldness to live honestly and obey God above all.
• Memorize Acts 5:29 to strengthen your commitment to God’s authority.
• Reflect in a journal on how God’s holiness calls you to integrity.
• Share with a friend or small group about a time God protected you in difficulty.
• Attend a church service or Bible study focused on the early church’s witness.
• Practice hospitality or fellowship by inviting someone to your home for Bible discussion.
• Worship God through songs or prayers that celebrate His power and faithfulness.

Acts 5 reveals the early church’s struggle to maintain holiness and boldness amid growing opposition. The severe judgment on Ananias and Sapphira underscores God’s demand for truth, while the apostles’ miracles and fearless preaching demonstrate the Spirit’s power. Despite persecution, the church grows through faithful witness, reminding us that obedience to God and reverence for His holiness are essential for the kingdom’s advance.

Loading your Kingdom Citizen progress…

Your completed chapters are connected to your Kingdom Citizen account.

View your full progress on the Acts Hub.

Still Studying?

Have a Question About This Chapter?

Ask a Bible question and receive a Scripture-guided study response designed to help point you back to God's Word.