Acts 3:7

Taking him by the right hand, Peter helped him up, and at once the man's feet and ankles were made strong.

Study Bible

Taking him by the right hand
The act of taking someone by the right hand is significant in both cultural and scriptural contexts. In ancient times, the right hand symbolized power, authority, and blessing. The Greek word for "taking" here is "πιάσας" (piasas), which implies a firm and intentional grasp. This gesture by Peter is not just a physical action but a demonstration of faith and authority given to him by Christ. It reflects the divine intervention and the personal touch of God in healing and restoration. The right hand is often associated with God's power and favor, as seen in various scriptures (e.g., Isaiah 41:10).

Peter helped him up
The phrase "helped him up" indicates an act of compassion and faith. The Greek word "ἤγειρεν" (ēgeiren) means to raise up or awaken. This is not merely a physical lifting but a spiritual awakening and restoration. Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, acts as an instrument of God's power, demonstrating the transformative power of faith in action. This act signifies the role of believers in lifting others through the power of Christ, emphasizing the importance of community and support in the Christian faith.

and at once
The immediacy of the healing is captured in the phrase "at once," translated from the Greek word "παραχρῆμα" (parachrēma), meaning immediately or instantly. This underscores the miraculous nature of the event, highlighting that God's power is not bound by time or process. The instantaneous healing serves as a testament to the authenticity of the miracle and the divine authority of the apostles. It reflects the New Testament theme of God's kingdom breaking into the present world with power and authority.

the man’s feet and ankles were made strong
The phrase "were made strong" is translated from the Greek word "ἐστερεώθησαν" (estereōthēsan), which means to be strengthened or established. This indicates a complete and perfect healing, not just a temporary fix. The specific mention of "feet and ankles" highlights the totality of the miracle, as these were the very parts of the body that had been crippled. In a broader spiritual sense, this healing symbolizes the restoration and strengthening that comes through faith in Jesus Christ. It serves as a metaphor for the spiritual strengthening and renewal available to all believers. The physical healing of the man is a sign of the greater spiritual healing and salvation offered through the gospel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Peter
One of Jesus' twelve apostles, known for his leadership in the early church and his boldness in preaching the gospel. In this passage, he demonstrates faith and the power of the Holy Spirit by healing a lame man.

2. The Lame Man
A man who had been lame from birth, sitting at the temple gate called Beautiful, seeking alms. His healing is a testament to the power of Jesus' name and the faith of the apostles.

3. John
Another apostle present with Peter during this event. He is a witness to the miracle and a partner in ministry.

4. The Temple Gate Called Beautiful
A significant location in Jerusalem where the lame man was healed. It was a place of worship and gathering, making the miracle a public testimony to many.

5. The Healing Event
This miraculous healing serves as a sign of the apostles' authority and the power of Jesus' resurrection, drawing attention to the message of salvation.

Teaching Points

Faith in Action
Peter's act of taking the man by the hand demonstrates faith in Jesus' power to heal. Believers are called to act in faith, trusting in God's ability to work through them.

The Power of Jesus' Name
The healing underscores the authority and power inherent in the name of Jesus. Christians are encouraged to pray and minister in His name, expecting God to move.

Public Testimony
The miracle at the temple gate was a public demonstration of God's power, leading to opportunities for witness. Believers should be open to how God might use their lives as a testimony to others.

Compassion and Boldness
Peter's willingness to engage with the lame man shows compassion and boldness. Christians are called to approach others with love and courage, offering hope and help.

Transformation and Restoration
The immediate strengthening of the man's feet and ankles symbolizes the transformative power of Christ. Believers can experience and offer this restoration in various aspects of life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Peter's interaction with the lame man challenge us to act in faith in our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we rely on the power of Jesus' name in our personal and communal prayers?

3. How can we be more intentional about allowing our lives to be a public testimony of God's work?

4. What are some practical ways we can show compassion and boldness in our interactions with others?

5. How does the transformation of the lame man inspire us to seek and offer restoration in our communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 4:10
This verse further explains that the healing was done in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, emphasizing the source of the apostles' power.

Isaiah 35:6
This Old Testament prophecy speaks of the lame leaping like a deer, which is fulfilled in the healing of the lame man, showing the coming of God's kingdom.

Luke 5:24-25
Jesus heals a paralytic, demonstrating His authority to forgive sins and perform miracles, paralleling the apostles' actions in His name.

Mark 16:17-18
Jesus promises that signs will accompany those who believe, including healing the sick, which is evident in this passage.