When Ananias heard this (the question, “What made you do such a thing?”) he fell down and died. And great fear seized all who heard what had happened. Then some young men came forward, wrapped up his body, and carried him out and buried him.
I read an article from http://www.jimbomkamp.com/acts/Acts5P1.htm He belongs to the Calvary Chapel and states that his church tries not to provide recognition for money given to the church. When someone asks if they can give a million dollars, the church won’t accept it because if one gives from their heart, they would give anonymously.
I think we’ve all tried to elevate ourselves with our words and actions instead of letting God promote us. That is why this story scares us, and we ask, “How can a loving God punish in such a way.” Peter didn’t have the authority to judge, but he did have the authority to ask a question and reveal the heart of Ananias. Perhaps Ananias realized the man he had become after Peter asked the question and died of a heart attack. Or perhaps God struck Ananias down because he would ruin the purity of the early church. The church had to be pure for God to live among them in the being of the Holy Spirit. A pure church is the reason so many more miracles happened then compared to now.
I believe God decides when our time is up on earth. Ananias was no longer useful to God. But do not fear, “the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who listen will come to life.” (John 5:25b) Death is not a punishment. I believe after death Ananias had or will have the choice to accept his Savior, Jesus.
When we repent, question our motivations daily, praise God, and encourage others so the Holy Spirit can perform miracles in us and through us, we will not be self-centered.
Father God, I praise you for sending Your Holy Spirit to me. Help me ask those who are hurtful and myself, “What made you do such a thing?” Point out my mistakes so I can repent and use the power of the Holy Spirit to help and encourage others. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.