Givers and Fakers

One of the literary devices used in Luke's writings is his use of comparative narratives. He will tell the story of one character and immediately tell the story of another character of opposite behavior or demeanor. We are presented this device here as we look at Barnabas and Ananias/Sapphira. The stark contrast cannot be denied and it launches us into a deeper discussion about the place of true devotion to God through giving, versus fake devotion through deception.