The correct option is A. Ananias lied to the Apostles. Detailed Explanation:

1. Context of the Question: The Acts of the Apostles is a book in the New Testament that describes the early Christian community and the spread of the Gospel after Jesus' resurrection and ascension. It includes various stories about the apostles, their teachings, and the challenges they faced.
2. The Story of Ananias and Sapphira: In Acts 5:1-11, we find the account of Ananias and his wife Sapphira. They sold a piece of property and conspired to withhold part of the proceeds while pretending to donate the entire amount to the apostles. Ananias brought a portion of the money to the apostles but claimed it was the full amount. This act of deceit was not just a lie to the apostles but also a lie to God.
3. Consequences of the Lie: When Ananias presented the money, the apostle Peter confronted him, asking why he had lied to the Holy Spirit. Peter explained that Ananias had not just lied to men but to God. As a result of his deceit, Ananias fell down and died. Later, Sapphira came in and also lied about the amount, leading to her death as well. This story serves as a powerful warning about the seriousness of dishonesty and the importance of integrity within the Christian community.

Why the Other Options are Wrong:

• B. Gamaliel lied to the Apostles: This option is incorrect because Gamaliel, a respected Pharisee and teacher of the law, actually defended the apostles in Acts 5:34-39. He advised the Sanhedrin not to take drastic action against the apostles, suggesting that if their movement was of human origin, it would fail, but if it was from God, they would not be able to stop it. Therefore, he did not lie to the apostles; rather, he provided wise counsel.
• C. Pontius Pilate defended the Apostles: This option is also incorrect. Pontius Pilate was the Roman governor who presided over the trial of Jesus and ultimately ordered His crucifixion. He did not defend the apostles; in fact, he was involved in the events leading to Jesus' death, which had a direct impact on the apostles' mission. There is no record of him defending the apostles in the Acts of the Apostles.
• D. Sapphira told the truth: This option is incorrect because Sapphira, like her husband Ananias, lied about the amount of money they received from the sale of their property. When she was questioned by Peter, she confirmed the false claim made by Ananias, leading to her own demise. Thus, she did not tell the truth.

Summary of Key Points:

• The Acts of the Apostles recounts the early Christian community's experiences, including the story of Ananias and Sapphira.
• Ananias lied to the apostles about the proceeds from a property sale, claiming to donate the full amount while withholding part of it.
• Gamaliel defended the apostles, while Pontius Pilate was involved in Jesus' trial and did not support the apostles.
• Sapphira also lied, confirming her husband's deceit, which led to both of their deaths as a consequence of their dishonesty.

This understanding of the story emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity within the Christian faith and community.