Acts 3:10

they recognized him as the man who used to sit begging at the Beautiful Gate of the temple, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.

Study Bible

and they recognized him
The Greek word for "recognized" is "ἐπεγίνωσκον" (epeginōskon), which implies a deep, personal recognition or acknowledgment. This suggests that the people had seen this man regularly and knew him well, highlighting the public nature of his previous condition. In a spiritual sense, this recognition can be seen as a metaphor for how God knows each of us intimately, understanding our struggles and our potential for transformation.

as the man who used to sit begging
The phrase "used to sit begging" indicates a past continuous action, emphasizing the man's previous state of helplessness and dependency. The Greek word "ἐλεημοσύνην" (eleēmosynēn) for "begging" is related to mercy or alms, reflecting the man's reliance on the charity of others. This transformation from a beggar to a healed man serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of faith and the work of the Holy Spirit.

at the Beautiful Gate of the temple
The "Beautiful Gate" is believed to be one of the main entrances to the Temple in Jerusalem, possibly the Nicanor Gate, known for its grandeur and splendor. This location is significant as it symbolizes the intersection of human need and divine intervention. The gate, a place of entry into the sacred, becomes a site of miraculous healing, illustrating how God's grace can meet us at the threshold of our spiritual journey.

and they were filled with wonder and amazement
The Greek words "θάμβος" (thambos) for "wonder" and "ἔκστασις" (ekstasis) for "amazement" convey a sense of being overwhelmed or astonished beyond comprehension. This reaction underscores the miraculous nature of the healing and the power of God at work through the apostles. It serves as a reminder of the awe-inspiring nature of God's works and the appropriate response of reverence and worship.

at what had happened to him
The phrase "what had happened to him" points to the miraculous change in the man's condition. The Greek "συμβεβηκότος" (symbebēkotos) suggests an event that has occurred, emphasizing the reality and permanence of the miracle. This transformation is not just physical but also spiritual, symbolizing the new life and hope found in Christ. It invites believers to reflect on their own spiritual transformations and the ongoing work of God in their lives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Peter and John
Apostles of Jesus Christ who were instrumental in the early church's growth. They were on their way to the temple when they encountered the lame man.

2. The Lame Man
A man who had been lame from birth and was known for begging at the Beautiful Gate of the temple. He was healed by Peter in the name of Jesus Christ.

3. The Beautiful Gate
A prominent entrance to the temple in Jerusalem, known for its grandeur. It was a common place for beggars to seek alms from those entering the temple.

4. The Healing Event
Peter, through the power of Jesus Christ, heals the lame man, enabling him to walk for the first time in his life.

5. The Crowd
The people who frequented the temple and recognized the healed man, leading to their amazement and wonder at the miracle.

Teaching Points

The Power of Jesus' Name
The healing of the lame man underscores the authority and power inherent in the name of Jesus. Believers are reminded of the spiritual authority they have in Christ.

Faith and Expectation
The lame man expected to receive something from Peter and John, though he anticipated alms, not healing. This teaches us to approach God with expectation, knowing He can exceed our requests.

Public Testimony
The miracle served as a public testimony to the power of God, leading to wonder and amazement. Our lives should similarly reflect God's work, drawing others to Him.

Transformation and Recognition
The transformation in the lame man's life was evident to all who knew him. Our transformation in Christ should be visible and recognizable to those around us.

The Role of the Church
Peter and John’s actions demonstrate the church's role in ministering to both physical and spiritual needs, pointing people to Christ through acts of compassion and power.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the healing of the lame man at the Beautiful Gate demonstrate the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy?

2. In what ways can we, like Peter and John, be instruments of God's power and love in our communities today?

3. What does this passage teach us about the importance of faith and expectation in our relationship with God?

4. How can the transformation in the lame man's life inspire us to live out our faith in a way that is visible to others?

5. What are some practical ways the church can address both the physical and spiritual needs of those in our communities, following the example of the early apostles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 2:43
This verse speaks of the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles, of which the healing of the lame man is a prime example.

Isaiah 35:6
This prophecy speaks of the lame leaping like a deer, which is fulfilled in the healing of the lame man, demonstrating the messianic age's arrival through Jesus.

John 14:12
Jesus promised that those who believe in Him would do the works He did and even greater works, which is evident in the apostles' miraculous acts.