The Book of Acts

Peters Heals a Crippled Beggar

Acts 3:1-11 _{Amplified Bible}

“Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour (3:00 p.m.), 2 and a man who had been unable to walk from birth was being carried along, whom they used to set down every day at that gate of the temple which is called Beautiful*, so that he could beg alms from those entering the temple.”- Acts 3:1-2

            The Jews went to the Temple to pray three times during each day. Around 9 AM, 3 PM, in connection with the morning and afternoon sacrifices & at sunset. Peter and John were going to the Temple for the 3 PM prayers. The “Beautiful” Gate is more than likely a reference to the bronze-covered Nicanor Gate. This was the gate most worshippers went thru to enter Solomon’s Colonnade. “Solomon's Colonnade was a covered portico that ran the entire length of the eastern portion of the outer court of the temple precincts, along and just inside the eastern wall of the temple”. *

            It was considered praiseworthy for people to give money to beggars in the Jewish religion, so it was very wise of the lame man to ask to be placed by the main gate entrance to the Temple. This way he would be seen by the most people who were entering the Temple to worship. The man was hopeful of a monetary payout from Peter when he told the lame man to look at him. He clearly wanted the man to look and listen to what was coming next. Peter and John had no alms to give to this unfortunate man, but he gave him what he had, which obviously was more than the lame man could have ever hoped for. After the man’s interaction with Peter he would never need to beg for money again. By the authority and power of the name of Jesus Christ, the man was completely healed of his lameness. Those present were absolutely astonished. They knew this man. They passed by him every day. They knew he had been unable to walk since birth. They were witnesses to a spectacular miracle. This man was lame, completely unable to walk, yet by the power and authority of the name, he walks. This man jumped for joy and praised God for his incredible mercy. Let’s be clear here, Peter and John did not perform this miracle on their own, but rather through the power of the Holy Spirit. 

            To state that something be done “in the name of Jesus Christ” you are essentially saying “by the authority that name holds and the power it invokes”.  After he was healed, the once lame man clung to both Peter and John as if to not allow them to leave. The people in the various areas of the Temple ‘rushed’ to the Colonnade to witness what had obviously taken place. Peter’s ministry had begun. 

 

Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In his name & for his glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources: The Life Application Study Bible; Expositor's Bible Commentary (Abridged Edition): New Testament.

* Expositor's Bible Commentary (Abridged Edition): New Testament.