Acts 3:2

And a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those entering the temple courts.

Study Bible

And a man who was lame from birth
The phrase "lame from birth" indicates a congenital condition, emphasizing the severity and permanence of the man's disability. In the Greek, "χωλός" (chōlos) is used for "lame," which can mean crippled or unable to walk. This condition would have rendered the man entirely dependent on others for mobility and sustenance, highlighting the depth of his need and the miraculous nature of his healing later in the chapter. In a historical context, those with disabilities were often marginalized and seen as outcasts, making the forthcoming miracle not only a physical healing but a social restoration.

was being carried
The act of being "carried" suggests a community or family involvement, indicating that despite his condition, the man was not entirely abandoned. The Greek word "βαστάζω" (bastazō) implies a continuous action, showing that this was a regular occurrence. This reflects the compassion and responsibility of those around him, who ensured he could be placed in a position to receive alms. It also sets the stage for the divine intervention that would change his life, as he was brought to the right place at the right time.

to the temple gate called Beautiful
The "temple gate called Beautiful" is a significant location, both physically and symbolically. The gate, likely the Nicanor Gate, was an ornate and prominent entrance to the temple, made of Corinthian bronze and known for its splendor. In a spiritual sense, the "Beautiful" gate represents the threshold between the secular and the sacred, a place where divine encounters occur. The man's placement here is symbolic of the transition from a life of begging to one of spiritual and physical wholeness.

where he was put every day
The phrase "every day" underscores the routine and desperation of the man's situation. The Greek "καθ' ἡμέραν" (kath' hēmeran) indicates a daily occurrence, emphasizing the persistence of his plight and the faithfulness of those who helped him. This daily presence at the temple gate also suggests a hope or expectation for change, as the temple was a place of prayer and potential generosity from worshippers.

to beg from those entering the temple courts
Begging "from those entering the temple courts" highlights the man's reliance on the charity of others. The temple courts were bustling with activity, filled with people coming to worship, making it a strategic location for almsgiving. In Jewish tradition, giving to the poor was considered a righteous act, and the man positioned himself to receive such acts of mercy. This setting also foreshadows the divine mercy he would soon experience through the apostles, transforming his life beyond mere almsgiving.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Lame Man
A man who was lame from birth and was carried daily to the temple gate called Beautiful to beg for alms from those entering the temple.

2. Peter and John
Two of Jesus' apostles who were going up to the temple at the time of prayer, around three in the afternoon.

3. The Temple Gate Called Beautiful
A specific gate of the temple in Jerusalem where the lame man was placed to beg. This gate was likely a prominent and well-trafficked location, making it strategic for begging.

4. The Temple
The central place of worship for the Jewish people in Jerusalem, where daily prayers and sacrifices were conducted.

5. The Event of Healing
The encounter between Peter, John, and the lame man, which leads to a miraculous healing, demonstrating the power of Jesus' name.

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 transformative power available through faith in Christ.

Faith and Expectation
The lame man expected to receive something from Peter and John, though he anticipated alms. This teaches us to approach God with expectation, knowing He can provide beyond our immediate needs.

Compassion and Action
Peter and John’s response to the lame man’s plight demonstrates the importance of compassion leading to action. Christians are called to be attentive to the needs around them and to act in love.

The Role of the Church in Healing
The church is called to be a place of healing and restoration, both spiritually and physically, through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Witnessing Through Miracles
The miracle served as a powerful witness to the people, drawing attention to the message of the gospel. Believers are encouraged to let their lives be a testimony to God’s power and grace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the location of the healing at the temple gate called Beautiful enhance the significance of the miracle?

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

3. How does the healing of the lame man in Acts 3:2 connect with the prophecy in Isaiah 35:6, and what does this reveal about Jesus' mission?

4. What can we learn from the lame man’s expectation and how can this shape our approach to prayer and faith?

5. How does the response of Peter and John to the lame man’s need challenge us to respond to the needs we encounter in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 4:9-10
This passage provides further context to the healing, as Peter explains that the man was healed by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.

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

Luke 5:18-26
The healing of the paralytic by Jesus, which parallels the healing in Acts 3, emphasizing the authority and power of Jesus to heal and forgive sins.

John 9:1-7
The healing of the man born blind, which, like the healing of the lame man, demonstrates Jesus' power to restore and renew.