Acts 5:3
But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?
Acts 5:3 · King James Version
Meaning
One interpretation of this verse from Acts 5:3 is that Peter is questioning Ananias about why he allowed Satan to influence him to lie to the Holy Ghost. The act of lying to the Holy Spirit is seen as a grave offense because it demonstrates a lack of respect and integrity towards God. By keeping back part of the price of the land that he had sold, Ananias attempted to deceive the apostles and the church about his true intentions. This verse serves as a lesson about the importance of honesty and transparency in one's actions, especially when dealing with matters of faith and spirituality. It highlights the consequences of allowing oneself to be swayed by deceit and dishonesty, showing the severity of such actions in the eyes of God.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Acts, Peter confronts Ananias about his deceitful actions. The theological interpretation of this verse centers around the concept of the Holy Spirit's role in discerning truth and exposing deception. By lying to the Holy Spirit, Ananias is ultimately lying to God Himself, showing a lack of reverence and fear for the Lord. The word "Satan" is mentioned here as the instigator behind Ananias' deceit, highlighting the spiritual battle between good and evil. The word "filled" in this context denotes complete control and influence, indicating the extent of Ananias' deception. The severity of the situation is emphasized by Peter's question, questioning why Ananias would allow himself to be filled with deceit towards the Holy Spirit. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity and honesty in our actions, as well as the consequences of giving in to temptations orchestrated by the enemy.
Acts 5:3 in other translations
American Standard Version
But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thy heart to lie to the Holy Spirit, and to keep back [part] of the price of the land?
World English Bible
But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit, and to keep back part of the price of the land?
Douay-Rheims
But Peter said: Ananias, why hath Satan tempted thy heart, that thou shouldst lie to the Holy Ghost and by fraud keep part of the price of the land?
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then saide Peter, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart, that thou shouldest lye vnto the holy Ghost, and keepe away part of the price of this possession?