Acts 3

“Healing Of The Lame Man” (Detail) by Raphael 1515

Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. (Acts 3:6 KJV)

There is no indication the lame man’s life was endangered by his affliction. Certainly there were others in the city with similar or worse disabilities. He did not ask Peter for healing, just for money – which Peter did not have.

Do we give what Peter gave? The name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. In this instance, the name healed. When we give it, it may provide the direction to a soul’s salvation. Which would be most beneficial in the long run? Walk today, or live eternally?

And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God: (Acts 3:8-9 KJV)

Praising God, praising God!! They didn’t thank Peter, they praised God. They marveled at one man’s healing, not thinking about the others that sat nearby.

And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk? (Acts 3:12 KJV)

Peter turns this into one marvelous opportunity to glorify God through His son, Jesus Christ. Peter speaks directly to their rejection of Christ.

But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you; And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses. (Acts 3:14-15 KJV)

How many still denying Him today? Oh, they are not calling for Barabbas, nor are they calling for crucifixion – they simply say He is a myth, a desire to believe the unbelievable. The result is the same. Prophecies written for thousands of years were fulfilled in this man.

But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled. (Acts 3:18 KJV)

Actions are required.

Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; (Acts 3:19 KJV)

Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities. (Acts 3:26 KJV)

Now it’s our turn. Study to see if this is not so.