A seemingly idyllic situation is reported in the early church. The new converts are united in the truth, in purpose and in love. This is exemplified in the life of Barnabas, a man of genuine faith, love and charity. But this happy situation suddenly changes. The Ananias and Saphira episode of insincerity and hypocrisy erupts. There are many lessons here for us on what we should be striving for in the church and what must be carefully avoided.