The early church experienced explosive growth. Peter preached his first sermon on the day of Pentecost and three thousand people came to faith in Jesus; five thousand more believers were added when he preached his second sermon. But all was not right.

 

Deception crept into the church through a good deed done with bad intentions (Acts 5:1-11). Ananias and Sapphira lied about a generous donation they made to the church. Because they lied to God not man, the sobering judgment of God fell upon them. 

 

A much-needed correction took place in the early church, but not in a way that hindered the plan of God. On the contrary, purged of sin, the church continued to grow in the fear of the Lord.

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“Every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good.”

Romans 8:28 MSG