Observation

This was another question that was attempted by the candidates and most of the candidates gave remarkable responses to the question in both parts A and B. Candidates were familiar with the question, however, their weakness was observed in the fact that they did not know how to put down their points in logical sequence.  It was noticed that many candidates did not discuss about the role Barnabas, Ananias and Sapphira played in the early church. In other cases, some students focused their attention only on Ananias and Saphira thereby neglecting the activities and the communal living of the early church. On the whole, candidate’s performance on this question was average. Candidates were suppose to have started writing their points as listed below

1. After the arrival of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, Peter gave a powerful speech and about three thousand converts were made, and became part of the early church.
2. The new converts were then baptized.
3. Their life was characterized by a strong bond of fellowship because they were of one heart and soul.
4. They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teachings and fellowshipping together.
5. Fear came upon them as wonders and signs were performed by the apostles.
6. Their togetherness was shown in the practice of joint ownership of possessions/ property.
7. They shared the proceeds among themselves according to their needs, and there was no needy person among them.
8. Day by day, the Lord added to their number.
9. They devoted themselves to breaking of bread from one house to another with gladness and sincerity of mind.
10. They praised God and had favour with all the people. / They prayed together.
11. The apostles gave testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and grace was upon them.
12. Those who had land or houses sold them, and brought the money to the apostles to be shared. / No one owned what he possessed.
13. Notable among the donors was Joseph, also known as Barnabas who willingly sold his field and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.
14. However, Ananias and Sapphira his wife, were not sincere in giving out their possession and were instantly punished.
15. Another important event which nearly marred/ destroyed the unity of the Church was the unfair distribution of provisions. However, this was resolved by the appointment of the deacons.