Acts 5:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 5:2
2 And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet.
Chapter Context
Acts 5 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of prayer, redemption, obedience. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-42: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 5:2
2 And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet.
Analysis
The phrase 'kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it' describes deliberate, conspiratorial deception. The Greek 'enosphisato' (kept back) is used in Joshua 7:1 for Achan's theft, linking this sin to Israel's conquest crisis. This wasn't mere withholding but fraudulent representation. 'His wife also being privy' (Greek 'syneidyia,' conscious knowledge) makes this premeditated conspiracy, not impulsive lie. Bringing 'a certain part' while implying the whole exemplifies Jesus' warning about serving two masters.
Historical Context
Property sales were voluntary (v. 4), not mandatory. The sin was deception, not incomplete giving. The couple likely sought Barnabas-level reputation (Acts 4:36-37) without matching sacrifice. Ancient culture's honor/shame dynamic made public recognition valuable, tempting counterfeit piety.
Reflection
- How does conspiring together in sin compound individual guilt?
- What does 'keeping back part' while claiming the whole reveal about money's grip on the heart?
Word Studies
- Apostle: ἀπόστολος (Apostolos) G652 - Apostle, sent one
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Acts 4:37