Gifts of the Hypocrites
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The Fourth of Acts comes to a close with remarkable examples of generosity. For the benefit of needy persons, properties were sold, and the proceeds thereof were laid at the feet of the apostles. It appears at the opening of Chapter Five that Ananias and Sapphira wanted to be regarded as generous as others. While no requirement was made of anyone to liquidate possessions, and certainly not to sacrifice the entire worth of anything, Ananias and Sapphira sold land and offered a portion of the proceeds, all under the apparent pretense that they had given it all. Such hypocrisy cost them their lives and brought great fear upon all who heard of it. The Savior had taught that such gifts were to be given in a discreet manner anyway, and not to be seen of men. Not only so, but the hypocrisy of feigned generosity is one of the evils rooted in the love of money. If the Lord considers it a personal favor when provisions are made for the least of His brethren, then it must be Satan who is pleased by the gifts of the hypocrites.
Written and voiced by David Hayes Prophater