Introduction: Why This Matters
Have you ever told a lie to look better in front of others? Maybe it was small, but it was still dishonest. In today’s lesson, we’ll see what happened when two people in the early church pretended to be more generous than they really were—and how seriously God takes truth and integrity.
This is a heavy story, but it teaches a powerful truth: God cares more about what’s real than what looks good on the outside.
1. Bible Reading: Acts 5:1–6
“Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. With his wife’s full knowledge he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles’ feet. Then Peter said, ‘Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land?’ … When Ananias heard this, he fell down and died. And great fear seized all who heard what had happened.”
Explanation For Teenagers
Ananias didn’t have to give all the money—but he lied about it to seem more generous.
Peter called out the lie, not because of the money, but because of the deception.
God cares about honesty. It’s not about perfection, but being real and truthful in our lives.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- Why do you think Ananias wanted to lie about the money?
- Have you ever felt pressure to act more “spiritual” than you really are?
- Why is integrity important, especially in our relationship with God?
2. Bible Reading: Acts 5:7–11
“About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. Peter asked her, ‘Tell me, is this the price you and Ananias got for the land?’ ‘Yes,’ she said, ‘that is the price.’ Peter said to her, ‘How could you conspire to test the Spirit of the Lord?’ … At that moment she fell down at his feet and died. Then the young men came in and, finding her dead, carried her out and buried her beside her husband.”
Explanation For Teenagers
Sapphira had the chance to tell the truth, but she chose to go along with the lie.
This story may seem harsh, but it shows how seriously God takes our hearts and our honesty.
Living with integrity means being truthful—even when no one else knows the full story.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- What could Sapphira have done differently in that moment?
- What are some areas where it’s hard to be honest?
- How can we build a habit of integrity in our daily lives?
Youth Group Game: “Truth or Trash”
What You’ll Need:
- Note cards
- Basket labeled “Truth” and another labeled “Trash”
How to Play:
- Write real scenarios (truths) and silly or false ones (trash) on cards.
- Students take turns reading them and deciding which basket to throw them in.
- Talk about how it feels to tell the truth—and how to recognize when something just isn’t honest.
Debrief
- How do you know when something is “truth” or “trash” in real life?
- Why do you think God values honesty so highly?
- What’s one step you can take this week to live with more integrity?
Closing Prayer
God, help us to live honestly and with integrity. We know You see our hearts, and we want to honor You not just with our actions, but with our truthfulness. Give us courage to be real with You, with others, and with ourselves. In Jesus’ name, Amen.