Doug’s Coffee Break

In this episode, we explore the sobering story of Ananias and Sapphira, who tested the Holy Spirit through dishonesty and faced immediate judgment. Their downfall sent a powerful message about God’s intolerance of sin, the distinct nature of the early church, and His active presence in this new community. Tune in as we unpack the significance of this dramatic moment in Acts and its lasting impact.

In this episode, we examine the shocking judgment of Ananias in Acts 5:5 and its deeper meaning. Why was his punishment so severe? How does it connect to Achan’s story in Joshua 7? We explore the idea that judgment begins with God's people (1 Peter 4:17) and what the "sin that leads to death" (1 John 5:16) really means. Join us as we unpack this dramatic and sobering moment in the early church!

In this episode, we explore the story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1–4, a striking account of deception, divine judgment, and the early church’s commitment to honesty. We discuss how their sin wasn’t withholding money but lying about it, the contrast with Barnabas’ generosity, and what it means to be "filled"—by either the Holy Spirit or Satan. Plus, we unpack the significance of this event in the context of early Christian giving.

In this episode, we explore the early believers' unity—sharing not just faith but also possessions. The apostles boldly preached Christ’s resurrection, living out answered prayer. We also dive into the story of Barnabas, the "Son of Encouragement," and tackle the question: How could a Levite own land? Tune in for insights into faith, generosity, and biblical history!

In this episode, we explore the early church’s prayer for boldness and the powerful response from God—shaking their meeting place and filling them with the Holy Spirit. 

In this episode, we explore Acts 4:25–26 and its connection to Psalm 2, where Peter identifies opposition to Jesus as a fulfillment of prophecy. We break down the parallels between David’s words and the early church’s struggles, showing how Scripture reveals both past and future resistance to God’s anointed. 

When threatened to stay silent about Jesus, Peter and John stood firm, choosing to obey God over human authorities. Instead of fear, the early church responded with prayer—acknowledging God’s sovereignty, understanding opposition as part of His plan, and asking for even more boldness. Join us as we explore this powerful moment of faith and courage in Acts!

Peter and John, though seen as uneducated, stunned the Sanhedrin with their boldness. Unable to deny the miracle, the authorities refused to even say Jesus’ name. How did Luke know what happened behind closed doors? And why was this just the first of several confrontations with the Sanhedrin? Tune in as we unpack this pivotal moment in Acts.

In this episode, we explore Peter’s bold defense before the religious leaders, where he declares Jesus as the rejected Stone who became the cornerstone. Quoting Psalm 118, Peter ties Christ’s rejection and resurrection to Israel’s salvation, emphasizing that there is no other name by which we must be saved. Despite their lack of formal education, Peter and John’s fearless testimony leaves the Sanhedrin stunned—just as Jesus had foretold. Tune in as we unpack the significance of this powerful moment in Acts 4.

Two simple fishermen stood before the powerful Jewish council—the same leaders who had condemned Jesus. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter fearlessly proclaimed that their authority came from Jesus, whom they had crucified but whom God had raised. This episode unpacks the boldness of the apostles and the unstoppable power of the gospel.