The story of Ananias and Sapphira has bothered me through the years. If we rank the sins in the Bible, I certainly would not rank the lie of Ananias and Sapphira in the “top ten scandalous sins of all time”. (That sounds like a VH1 countdown list). And yet, they don’t get to walk away at the end of this story. I have spent a little time thinking through this story, and here is what I have concluded.
The story of Jesus was completely contained within the lives of a relatively few followers. The truth of the resurrection could not be compromised by people who have a reputation for lying.
When something is new, Purity matters. Babies need good milk; young plants need good soil; young relationships need honesty; young kids need consistency; young Christians need clear truth; young churches need clear direction.
We are not going to try to do 100 different things at True Life Church. We are going to try to do a few things well. My goal as a pastor is to help you win the race God has called you to run. I am going to help equip you, help train you, pray for you and then send you out to run the race. Pure and Simple, True Life Church wins through you. We grow as you grow.
Amen, Mark! I have been excited about True Life church for some time now, but that excitement has increased dramatically after studying the book of Acts this past week. We have the same opportunity the first disciples had after Jesus was taken up into Heaven. We are at the beginning — a brand new body of believers coming together for one purpose, that Jesus will be glorified and declared Lord over all the earth!
I am reminded by what I’ve read so far in Acts that all we have to do is be completely and resolutely available to God, and He will do the rest. It is by the power of the Holy Spirit that we will reach the lost for Jesus Christ. I pray that we will not compare ourselves to others as we begin this journey, but be ourselves and allow God to use us in the unique way that He desires. God Bless…
C
thanks Chad for your incredible post and encouragement.
“When something is new, Purity matters.” I like that and believe it’s true! Hey, you’re on top of the blog thing. It’s great to read about what’s going on and where your heart is.
Thanks Stacia for your comment. This blogging is getting a little addictive. It’s like that old Pringles commercial, “Once you Pop, you just can’t …”