ACTS 3

PETER HEALS WITH THE AUTHORITY OF JESUS + CALLS THE PEOPLE TO REPENTANCE

When Peter and John visit the temple for prayer, they encounter a man with a physical disability begging outside the gates. When the man asks Peter and John for money, Peter responds with something greater. Speaking with the authority given to him by Jesus, Peter calls the man to stand and walk. Realizing that his ankles and feet are now healed, the man stands and begins to walk. With great joy, the man leaps, entering the temple and praising God. Many recognize the man as the beggar who was previously laid by the temple gates and are amazed when they see him miraculously healed.

In an area known as Solomon’s portico, Peter speaks to the amazed crowds. Peter states that Jesus is the source of their authority and power. Despite Israel’s rejection of Jesus, He is the one who came to save them and restore them by faith.

Peter explains that Jesus’ suffering was previously foretold by the prophets and His death on the cross fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies. Jesus also fulfilled God’s promise to Abraham, that God would bless all people through Abraham’s offspring. As a direct descendant of Abraham, Jesus offers hope to all people and makes salvation available to anyone who believes He is the Son of God (Genesis 12, Matthew 1). Peter’s message emphasizes the power of Jesus, calling the crowd to trust in Christ as the Savior and repent of their wrongdoing.