Acts 5:15

As a result, people brought the sick into the streets and laid them on cots and mats, so that at least Peter's shadow might fall on some of them as he passed by.

Study Bible

As a result
This phrase indicates a direct consequence of the preceding events. In the context of Acts, the apostles were performing many signs and wonders among the people, which led to an increase in faith and expectation. The Greek word here, "hōste," implies a natural outcome or effect, emphasizing the powerful impact of the apostles' ministry on the community.

they would carry
The act of carrying the sick demonstrates the faith and hope of the people. The Greek verb "pherō" suggests a deliberate and purposeful action. This reflects the communal effort and belief in the healing power associated with the apostles, particularly Peter.

the sick
The term "asthenēs" in Greek refers to those who are weak or infirm. In the historical context, sickness was often seen as a physical manifestation of spiritual or moral issues. The early church's ministry to the sick was a testament to the holistic healing power of the Gospel, addressing both physical and spiritual needs.

out into the streets
The streets, or "plateia" in Greek, were public spaces where daily life unfolded. By bringing the sick into the streets, the community was making a public declaration of faith. This act also symbolizes the breaking down of barriers, as the healing power of God was not confined to private or sacred spaces but was available to all.

lay them on cots and mats
The use of "cots" (Greek "klinidion") and "mats" (Greek "krabattos") indicates the varied conditions of the sick. Cots were more structured, while mats were simple and portable, suggesting that people from different social and economic backgrounds were seeking healing. This diversity highlights the inclusive nature of the early Christian message.

so that at least Peter’s shadow
The mention of "Peter’s shadow" (Greek "skia") is significant. In ancient times, a person's shadow was often thought to carry their essence or power. The belief that Peter's shadow could heal reflects the extraordinary faith of the people and the profound authority bestowed upon the apostles by the Holy Spirit.

might fall on some of them
The phrase "might fall" (Greek "episkiazō") conveys the idea of overshadowing or covering. This imagery is reminiscent of the Holy Spirit overshadowing Mary in Luke 1:35, suggesting divine intervention and presence. The hope was that even indirect contact with Peter would result in healing, underscoring the pervasive power of God at work.

as he passed by
The act of passing by, or "parerchomai" in Greek, indicates movement and transition. Peter's journey through the streets symbolizes the spread of the Gospel and the dynamic nature of the early church's mission. It serves as a reminder that the work of God is ongoing and active, reaching out to those in need wherever they are found.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Peter
One of Jesus' twelve apostles, a leading figure in the early church, known for his boldness and faith. In this passage, his presence is so powerful that people believe even his shadow can heal.

2. The Sick
Individuals suffering from various ailments, brought by others in hope of healing. Their presence highlights the desperation and faith of the early believers.

3. The Streets of Jerusalem
The setting for this event, symbolizing the public nature of the apostles' ministry and the widespread impact of their work.

4. Cots and Mats
Objects used to transport and lay the sick, indicating the severity of their conditions and the communal effort to bring them to Peter.

5. The Early Church
The community of believers growing rapidly in Jerusalem, characterized by signs and wonders performed by the apostles.

Teaching Points

Faith in Action
The faith of the people is evident as they bring the sick to be healed by Peter's shadow. This challenges us to consider how we demonstrate our faith in tangible ways.

God's Power through His Servants
The passage illustrates that God can work through His chosen servants in miraculous ways. We should be open to how God might use us to impact others.

Community Support
The communal effort to bring the sick to Peter highlights the importance of supporting one another in times of need. We are called to be a community that cares for and uplifts each other.

Public Witness
The healing taking place in the streets of Jerusalem serves as a public testimony to God's power. Our lives should similarly reflect God's work in us to those around us.

Expectation of Miracles
The early church lived with an expectation of God's miraculous intervention. We should cultivate a similar expectation, trusting in God's ability to work beyond our understanding.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the faith of the people in Acts 5:15 challenge your own faith in God's power to heal and intervene in your life?

2. In what ways can you be a vessel for God's work in your community, similar to how Peter was used in this passage?

3. How does the communal effort to bring the sick to Peter inspire you to support those in need within your church or community?

4. What are some modern-day "streets" where you can publicly witness to God's power and love?

5. How can you cultivate an expectation of God's miraculous work in your daily life, and what steps can you take to align your actions with this expectation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 19:11-12
This passage describes how God performed extraordinary miracles through Paul, where even handkerchiefs and aprons that touched him were used to heal the sick. This connection emphasizes the power of God working through His apostles.

Mark 6:56
In this verse, people sought to touch even the fringe of Jesus' garment for healing. This parallels the faith seen in Acts 5:15, where people believed in the power of Peter's shadow.

John 14:12
Jesus promises that those who believe in Him will do the works He has done and even greater works. Acts 5:15 is a fulfillment of this promise, showing the apostles continuing Jesus' ministry.