Yesterday, I took the opportunity to “thank” all of those who have helped with benevolence and hospitality within our church. In today’s verse, we are given an example of an individual who is specifically named and is a model of selflessness.

In the church was a believer named Joseph or “Joses.” He was an encourager with such a terrific spirit about him that the Apostles gave him the nickname “Barnabus” which means “Son of Encouragement.” 

Verse 37 records that Barnabus had some “land,” probably a family inheritance. He “sold it and laid it [the money] at the apostles feet.” He didn’t do this for recognition, but no doubt he received recognition anyway. People were impressed with his selfless gift. 

However, some give to be seen. In Acts 5 we read about two more church members, a married couple named “Ananias and Sapphira.” Evidently, they desired the recognition given Barnabus for his selfless act. They wanted the same words of appreciation, affirmation and recognition. 

Concocting a devious, selfish plan, in verse 1 the Bible states that they “sold a possession,” later we will learn that it was a piece of “land.” They planned to keep “back part of the price” for themselves. 

Now, there is nothing wrong with putting away money for the future. There is nothing wrong with having nice possessions. However, to deceive others and “lie to the Holy Spirit” pretending you gave all the money to the church is a terrible sin.