Presumptuous Sin and Jealousy Pt2

December 8th, 2025

Summary

This sermon from Acts 4:35-5:5 examines the story of Ananias and Sapphira, focusing on the dangers of jealousy, lying, and false worship. The pastor explains how this couple's jealousy of others' generous giving led them to lie to the Holy Spirit about their own gift, resulting in their immediate death. The message emphasizes that their sin wasn't just lying, but disrupting church unity and committing false worship by bringing a deceptive offering to God. The pastor warns against jealousy and envy in the church, explaining how these sins can destroy fellowship and hinder people from coming to salvation. He stresses the importance of honest worship and truthfulness in all aspects of life, noting that lying is often an attempt to preserve one's character while actually destroying it.


Daily Devotional Link

Intro Prayer

This sermon from Acts 4:35-5:5 examines the story of Ananias and Sapphira, focusing on the dangers of jealousy, lying, and false worship. The pastor explains how this couple's jealousy of others' generous giving led them to lie to the Holy Spirit about their own gift, resulting in their immediate death. The message emphasizes that their sin wasn't just lying, but disrupting church unity and committing false worship by bringing a deceptive offering to God. The pastor warns against jealousy and envy in the church, explaining how these sins can destroy fellowship and hinder people from coming to salvation. He stresses the importance of honest worship and truthfulness in all aspects of life, noting that lying is often an attempt to preserve one's character while actually destroying it. 

Ice Breaker

What's something you were really excited to give or share with someone recently, and how did it make you feel? 

Key Verses

  • Acts 4:35-37
  • Acts 5:1-5
  • Romans 13:13
  • Psalm 19:13
  • Matthew 6:1-4
  • Malachi 3:8

Questions

  • What do you think motivated Ananias and Sapphira to lie about their gift? How does jealousy lead to other sins?
  • The pastor mentioned that their sin disrupted the unity of the church described in Acts 4:32. How does dishonesty affect church fellowship today?
  • Why do you think God's judgment was so severe in this case? What does this teach us about the seriousness of lying to the Holy Spirit?
  • The pastor said 'lying is a way to self-preserve one's character while actually destroying it.' Can you think of examples where this is true?
  • How can we guard against jealousy when we see others being blessed or recognized in ways we're not?
  • What's the difference between giving for recognition versus giving as an act of worship? How can we check our motives?
  • The pastor emphasized the importance of honest worship. What does it mean to worship God 'in spirit and in truth'?
  • How can we create an environment in our church where people feel safe to be honest about their struggles and failures?

Life Application

This week, examine your heart for any areas where jealousy or envy might be taking root. If you discover these feelings toward others' blessings or recognition, confess them to God and pray for those people instead. Also, practice radical honesty in your daily interactions - choose to tell the truth even when it's uncomfortable or might get you in trouble. Remember that truthfulness honors God and builds genuine relationships. 

Key Takeaways

  • Jealousy and envy can lead to lying and disrupt church unity, ultimately hindering people from coming to salvation
  • Lying to preserve our character actually destroys it - truth is always the best policy even when it's difficult
  • Our worship must be honest and genuine, not performed for recognition or to impress others
  • God's grace covers our failures, but we must not presume upon His mercy by deliberately sinning
  • The greatest lie we can tell ourselves is that we're saved when we're not - we need honest self-examination before God

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for this powerful reminder about the importance of honesty and pure worship. Help us to examine our hearts and remove any jealousy, envy, or desire for recognition that might hinder our relationship with You. Give us courage to always speak the truth, even when it's difficult. Help us to worship You with pure hearts, seeking only Your glory and not our own recognition. Thank You for Your grace that covers our failures, and help us never to take that grace for granted. May our lives and our worship bring honor to Your name alone. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.