How do we know that Ananias and Sapphira were not true disciples?

Ananias and Sapphira's deceitful actions demonstrate that they were not true disciples of Christ. Their choice to keep back part of their proceeds while professing to give it all reveals their heart's motive: a desire for recognition and approval from their peers rather than a genuine love for God and His people. Peter confronted them, explaining that their lie was not just against men, but against the Holy Spirit. This serves to illustrate the reality that true discipleship is characterized by a heart transformed by grace, leading to authentic actions aligned with God’s commands, rather than an outward show motivated by vanity.