Jesus Transforms Ordinary People — Acts 4:13–5:16
Oct 2, 2026 9
Jesus transforms ordinary people. We see it in Peter and John’s courage, and we see it in the community gathered around their message. The name that saves them is the same name that changes how they live.
Acts 4:32–33
[32] Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common. [33] And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. (ESV)
Jesus transforms ordinary people
The religious leaders are astonished by Peter and John. These men have no formal rabbinic training, yet they speak boldly about Jesus. They have been with him, and they are filled with his Spirit (see Acts 4:8-13).
When they return to the believers and report the threats against them, the community prays for boldness. God fills them with his Spirit, and they continue speaking his word (see Acts 4:23-31).
Jesus transforms ordinary people who depend on him. They remain ordinary people, but they have an extraordinary message and an extraordinary, life-giving Saviour.
Look at what happens in their life together. They are united in heart and soul. Those with property sell it to provide for those in need. Barnabas sells a field and brings the money to the Apostles (see Acts 4:32-37).
Great grace is upon them, and generosity flows from them. They are moving away from greed toward generosity, and from self-interest toward a shared life and mission. These are people who belong to Jesus and to one another.
[Watch this week’s video devotion with Dave Miers]
Holiness matters in this new community
That makes the events at the beginning of chapter 5 so confronting. Ananias and Sapphira sell property and bring some of the money, pretending it is the full amount.
They were free to keep the property. They were free to give part of the money. Their sin is their deceit. They want to appear generous while lying to the Holy Spirit (see Acts 5:1-4).
God’s immediate judgment brings great fear upon the church. Their deaths are a serious warning to this young community: holiness matters. Belonging to Jesus means turning from hypocrisy and the desire to make much of ourselves (see Acts 5:5-11).
The Good News is…
Jesus, who died for us and rose again, saves us into a new community. His grace changes how we speak, share and live. We can depend on his Spirit for courage, give generously to meet others’ needs, and walk honestly before God. We belong to Jesus, and we now live for him.
Like and share so others can see Jesus clearly.
Further reading: Acts 4:13-5:16
Reflection
Where does your life need to reflect the grace of Jesus more clearly: in speaking about him, sharing with others or turning from hypocrisy?
Rev. Dave Miers
President, Good News Unlimited