06.21.2016 New Testament: Acts 5.3–4

To read the Bible in a year, read Acts 5.1–16 on June 21, In the year of our Lord 2016

By Don Ruhl

Some people blame God for their sin, arguing that He predestined them to sin, but such a doctrine denies the plain teaching of Scripture. Listen as Peter charges Ananias with sin,

But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the price of the land for yourself? While it remained, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not in your own control? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God” (Acts 5.3–4). 

First, Ananias allowed Satan to fill his heart that he might lie to the Holy Spirit, not that the Holy Spirit filled his heart to lie.

Second, Peter asked Ananias why he conceived this thing in his heart, not why did God conceive this thing in the heart of Ananias.

We sin because we want to sin, not because God made us that way.