OT -- 1st Kings 2:1-3:3
Well, we could hope for the peaceful transition, now couldn't we?
I think I fail to realize just how infrequently power shifts peacefully in this world. We are indeed fortunate to live here.
David reminds me of Don Corleone in his last moments.
Skip to minute 2:40 to watch Vito instruct Michael the way David instructs Solomon. Click here if your email doesn't display YouTube.
NT -- Acts 5:1-42
Okay, so how do you feel about Ananias and his oh so lovely but greedy wife Sapphira? And what does this tell you about Peter?
Was this a misuse of his power? Or justified? How many second chances did Peter get?
Check out this commentary on that scripture. I am not sure I am in agreement with it but it does provide some context.
What are your feelings?
Proverbs 16:25
This one seems totally appropriate to the above story.
I am assuming that Ananias thought it was the right thing to do but it did lead to his death. And his wife. Frightening.
Another sobering story. I think Peter recognized that Satan had infiltrated the community of believers through Ananias and Sapphira and only death could rid them of this influence. This is not the same Peter who denied Christ. This is the Holy Spirit empowered Peter. What a wake up call this is today. Are we doing deeds to look good? Contributing to try to impress? Satan is still at it at our every weak spot to cause us to stumble.
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