In this chapter we have, I. The sin and punishment of Ananias and Sapphira, who, for lying to the Holy Ghost, were struck dead at the word of Peter, Acts 5:1–11. II. The flourishing state of the church, in the power that went along with the preaching of the gospel, Acts 5:12–16. III.

The chapter begins with a melancholy but, which puts a stop to the pleasant and agreeable prospect of things which we had in the foregoing chapters; as every man, so every church, in its best state has its but. 1.

We have here an account of the progress of the gospel, notwithstanding this terrible judgment inflicted upon two hypocrites. I. Here is a general account of the miracles which the apostles wrought : By the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people, many miracles of…

Never did any good work go on with any hope of success, but it met with opposition; those that are bent to do mischief cannot be reconciled to those who make it their business to do good.

We are not told what it was that the apostles preached to the people; no doubt it was according to the direction of the angel— the words of this life; but what passed between them and the council we have here an account of; for in their sufferings there appeared more of a divine power and energy…