Were Ananias and Sapphira struck down by God?

Ananias and Sapphira were indeed struck down by God. In a community with total openness and transparency, they dared to introduce deceit.

It is written that the community of believers then were of one heart and one mind (Acts 4:32-33, The Message). They shared everything as none of them claimed ownership of their possessions. None of them lacked because those who owned lands and houses sold them and brought the cost of sale to the apostles as offerings. Each time such money is brought, it is distributed according to everyone's need. An example was given of Joseph also called Barnabas who sold his field and brought the money. [More..]

Can medicines treat Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders. Although the cause of PD is not known, genetic and environmental factors are strongly considered to be the main determinants and also family history is a risk factor. Studies strongly suggest that exposure to pesticides, well water consumption, rural living, anonnacin (a sour-sop component) and other chemicals such as a synthetic opiate, 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetr ahydropyridine (MPTP) are some of the predisposing environmental factors leading to Parkinson's disease. These factors trigger a complex of pathogenic events which lead to death of neurons called the dopaminergic nigral neurons in the brain. [More...]