◄ Acts 3 ►
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A Lame Man Walks 1One afternoon Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour.a 2And 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.b 3When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. 4Peter looked directly at him, as did John. “Look at us!” said Peter. 5So the man gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them. 6But Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!c” 7Taking him by the right hand, Peter helped him up, and at once the man’s feet and ankles were made strong. 8He sprang to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and leaping and praising God. 9When all the people saw him walking and praising God, 10they 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. Peter Speaks in Solomon’s Colonnade (Deuteronomy 18:15–22) 11While the man clung to Peter and John, all the people were astonished and ran to them in the walkway called Solomon’s Colonnade.d 12And when Peter saw this, he addressed the people: “Men of Israel, why are you surprised by this? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk? 13The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified His servante Jesus. You handed Him over and rejected Him before Pilate, even though he had decided to release Him. 14You rejected the Holy and Righteous One and asked that a murderer be released to you. 15You killed the Author of life, but God raised Him from the dead, and we are witnesses of this fact. 16By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know has been made strong. It is Jesus’ name and the faith that comes through Him that has given him this complete healing in your presence. 17And now, brothers, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did your leaders. 18But in this way God has fulfilled what He foretold through all the prophets, saying that His Christ would suffer. 19Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away, 20that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that He may send Jesus, the Christ, who has been appointed for you. 21Heaven must take Him in until the time comes for the restoration of all things, which God announced long ago through His holy prophets. 22For Moses said, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your brothers. You must listen to Him in everything He tells you.f 23Everyone who does not listen to Him will be completely cut off from among his people.g’ 24Indeed, all the prophets from Samuel on, as many as have spoken, have proclaimed these days. 25And you are sons of the prophets and of the covenant God made with your fathers when He said to Abraham, ‘Through your offspring all the families of the earth will be blessed.’h 26When God raised up His Servant, He sent Him first to you to bless you by turning each of you from your wicked ways.” Footnotes: 1 a That is, three in the afternoon 2 b Literally the temple; also in verse 8 6 c SBL, NE, and WH In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk! 11 d Literally in the colonnade called Solomon’s 13 e Or His child; also in verse 26 22 f Deuteronomy 18:15 23 g See Deuteronomy 18:19. 25 h Genesis 22:18 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Acts 3 Summary A Lame Man Walks Verses 1–5 – Peter and John at the Beautiful Gate Peter and John head to the temple for the afternoon prayer. At the Beautiful Gate they meet a man crippled from birth who asks for alms. Instead of money, he will receive far more. Verses 6–10 – A Miracle in Jesus’ Name Peter declares, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk!” (v. 6). Instantly healed, the man leaps, walks, and praises God, drawing a crowd that recognizes him as the former beggar. Verses 11–16 – Peter Points to the Risen Jesus While the healed man clings to Peter and John, the crowd gathers in Solomon’s Colonnade. Peter denies personal power and credits Jesus, “whom you handed over and denied before Pilate” (v. 13). Faith in Jesus’ name has made the man strong (v. 16). Verses 17–21 – Call to Repent and Be Refreshed Peter acknowledges the people acted in ignorance, fulfilling prophecy. He urges, “Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord” (v. 19). Verses 22–26 – Moses, the Prophets, and the Promise to Abraham Quoting Moses—“The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me” (v. 22; cf. Deuteronomy 18:15)—Peter shows Jesus is that promised Prophet. All prophets “from Samuel on” foretold these days, and through Abraham’s seed all families are blessed (vv. 24–25). Acts 3 takes us to the heart of Jerusalem where Peter and John, going about their daily routines, encounter a lame beggar. Seizing the opportunity to demonstrate the power of faith in Jesus Christ, Peter heals the man, drawing the attention of a large crowd. Peter then delivers a powerful sermon, reminding the people of their ancestors' prophecies and urging them to repent. Historical Setting • Time: Shortly after Pentecost, likely A.D. 30–33. • Place: The temple in Jerusalem, still the center of Jewish worship. Followers of Jesus continue to pray there, showing continuity with Israel’s heritage while proclaiming the risen Messiah. • Social climate: The Sanhedrin has recently opposed the apostles (Acts 4 records the next steps), yet the common people are curious and often favorable. The Beautiful Gate and the Temple Complex Archaeologists locate this ornate gate on the eastern side, possibly the Nicanor Gate separating the Court of Women from the inner courts. Josephus describes its massive bronze doors, forty-five feet high, shining like gold. Beggars chose high-traffic entrances; worshipers passing by felt compelled to give alms, making it an ideal spot for the crippled man. The Miracle of Healing • Public, verifiable, instantaneous, complete. • Not dependent on the beggar’s faith—he expected money, not a miracle. • Purpose: to draw attention to Jesus’ power and open a door for gospel preaching (Hebrews 2:3-4). • Continuity with Jesus’ ministry (Luke 5:24-25 shows a paralytic also rising and walking, validating that Jesus still works through His followers). Peter’s Sermon Structure 1. Denial of self-glory (v. 12). 2. Declaration of Jesus’ life, death, resurrection, and exaltation (vv. 13-15). 3. Explanation of the miracle (v. 16). 4. Invitation to repent and receive refreshment (vv. 17-21). 5. Scriptural proof from Moses, Samuel, and Abraham (vv. 22-25). Peter models gospel proclamation: Scripture-based, Christ-centered, and personally challenging. The Name of Jesus • “Name” means authority, reputation, and power. • Acts 4:12: “There is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” • Philippians 2:9-11 shows the exalted name before which every knee will bow. • The apostles rely on Jesus’ name, not ritual or gold, highlighting spiritual over material wealth. Repentance and Refreshing • Repentance = turning from sin to God (Isaiah 55:7). • “Times of refreshing” hint at spiritual renewal now and final restoration when Jesus returns (Revelation 21:4-5). • Forgiveness is pictured as sins “wiped away,” recalling ancient ink on papyrus easily removed with a damp sponge (Colossians 2:14). Prophets Fulfilled • Moses (Deuteronomy 18:15-19) – a prophet like Moses who mediates God’s word. • Samuel and subsequent prophets – pointing to a future King and Servant (2 Samuel 7:12-16; Isaiah 53; Jeremiah 23:5-6). • Abrahamic promise – “All nations will be blessed through your offspring” (Genesis 22:18). Paul links this seed to Christ (Galatians 3:16). Archaeological Insights • Solomon’s Colonnade (Portico) ran along the eastern wall of the outer court. Excavations of similar Herodian colonnades show rows of tall Corinthian columns offering shelter, ideal for large gatherings. • First-century coins and inscription fragments confirm the temple tax and almsgiving culture in which beggars sat at gates. Connections to Other Scriptures • Luke 24:44-47 – Jesus opens minds to understand the Law, Prophets, and Psalms; Peter follows that pattern here. • Isaiah 35:6 – “Then the lame will leap like a deer,” fulfilled literally in Acts 3 and pointing to the Messianic age. • Matthew 21:14 – The blind and lame came to Jesus in the temple and He healed them, foreshadowing the apostles’ act. • Hosea 6:1-3 – Promise of revival after repentance, mirrored in “times of refreshing.” • Hebrews 1:1-2 – God spoke through prophets, now through His Son, matching Peter’s climax that all prophets pointed to Jesus. Practical Application • Availability: Peter and John were simply on their way to pray; God uses ordinary steps of obedience for extraordinary impact. • Compassion: Seeing need precedes meeting need. Alms are good, but the gospel addresses deeper brokenness. • Boldness: Peter wastes no time explaining the miracle; he speaks plainly about sin and salvation. • Joyful witness: The healed man’s leaping praise turns the temple court into a stage for God’s glory—our gratitude can draw others to Christ. • Expectation: Material lack (“Silver or gold I do not have”) never limits what God can do; spiritual riches in Jesus are limitless. Summary Thought Acts 3 shows the risen Jesus still walking Jerusalem—now through His Spirit-filled people—bringing healing, forgiveness, and the fulfillment of every promise God ever made. Connections to Additional Scriptures Acts 4:12 Salvation exists in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. Isaiah 53:5 But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed. James 5:16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail. Teaching Points The Setting and Miracle (Acts 3:1-10) Peter and John, going to the temple for prayer, encounter a man lame from birth. Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, commands him, In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk! (Acts 3:6). The man is healed instantly, demonstrating the power of Jesus' name. The Reaction of the Crowd (Acts 3:9-11) The healed man enters the temple courts, walking and leaping, praising God. The crowd is filled with wonder and amazement, recognizing him as the beggar they had seen daily. Peter’s Sermon (Acts 3:12-26) Peter seizes the opportunity to address the crowd, attributing the miracle to Jesus, whom they had rejected and crucified. He calls them to repentance, saying, Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away (Acts 3:19). The Fulfillment of Prophecy (Acts 3:18-24) Peter explains that Jesus' suffering was foretold by the prophets, emphasizing that God’s plan was fulfilled through Christ. Practical Applications Boldness in Faith Like Peter and John, we are called to be bold in our faith, trusting in the power of Jesus' name to bring healing and transformation. Opportunities to Witness Look for opportunities in everyday situations to share the gospel, just as Peter did when the crowd gathered. Repentance and Restoration Embrace the call to repentance, understanding that it leads to spiritual restoration and refreshment. Recognizing God’s Work Be attentive to the ways God is working around you, and be ready to give Him glory for the miracles, big or small, in your life. People 1. Peter Peter is one of the apostles and a central figure in the early Christian church. In Acts 3, he performs a miracle by healing a lame man at the temple gate called Beautiful. He then addresses the crowd, explaining the miracle and preaching about Jesus Christ. The Greek name "Πέτρος" (Petros) means "rock" or "stone," reflecting his foundational role in the church. 2. John John, another apostle, accompanies Peter to the temple. He is present during the healing of the lame man and stands with Peter as he addresses the crowd. John's presence underscores the unity and partnership among the apostles. The Greek name "Ἰωάννης" (Ioannes) is derived from the Hebrew name "Yohanan," meaning "Yahweh is gracious." 3. The Lame Man This man, who is not named, is described as being lame from birth and is carried daily to the temple gate to beg for alms. After being healed by Peter, he enters the temple walking, leaping, and praising God, which astonishes the onlookers. His healing serves as a testament to the power of faith in Jesus Christ. 4. The People/Crowd The crowd consists of the people who witness the miracle and gather around Peter and John in Solomon's Colonnade. They are amazed by the healing and listen to Peter's sermon, which calls them to repentance and faith in Jesus. The Greek term "λαός" (laos) is often used to refer to the people or the crowd. 5. The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob While not a person in the traditional sense, this reference is significant as Peter invokes the God of the patriarchs to connect the miracle to the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel. This emphasizes the continuity of God's work from the Old Testament to the New Testament. Places 1. The Temple The Temple in Jerusalem is the central place of worship for the Jewish people. In Acts 3:1, Peter and John are going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, which is the ninth hour. The Greek term used here is "ἱερόν" (hieron), referring to the entire temple complex, including the courts and surrounding areas. 2. The Beautiful Gate This is a specific gate of the temple mentioned in Acts 3:2. A man lame from birth is carried to this gate daily to beg for alms from those entering the temple. The Greek term "ὡραῖος" (hōraios) is used, which can mean "beautiful" or "belonging to the right hour or season," indicating the gate's significance and possibly its ornate design. Events 1. Peter and John Go to the Temple Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. This was a customary time for prayer, aligning with Jewish tradition (Acts 3:1). 2. The Lame Beggar at the Temple Gate A man who had been lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he would beg for alms from those entering the temple (Acts 3:2). 3. The Beggar Asks for Alms Seeing Peter and John about to enter the temple, the beggar asked them for money. This was a common practice for those in need, relying on the charity of worshippers (Acts 3:3). 4. Peter's Response to the Beggar Peter, along with John, looked intently at the beggar and said, "Look at us!" This command was to capture the man's full attention (Acts 3:4). 5. The Beggar's Expectation The beggar gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them. This expectation was based on the usual practice of receiving alms (Acts 3:5). 6. Peter Heals the Beggar Peter declared, "Silver and gold I do not have, but what I have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!" The invocation of Jesus' name signifies authority and power (Acts 3:6). 7. The Beggar is Healed Peter took the man by the right hand and helped him up, and immediately his feet and ankles were strengthened. The Greek word "parachrēma" (παραχρῆμα) indicates the immediacy of the healing (Acts 3:7). 8. The Beggar Walks and Praises God The man leaped up, stood, and began to walk. He entered the temple with them, walking, leaping, and praising God, demonstrating the completeness of his healing (Acts 3:8). 9. The Crowd's Reaction All the people saw him walking and praising God, and they recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the Beautiful Gate. They were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him (Acts 3:9-10). 10. Peter Addresses the Crowd As the healed man clung to Peter and John, all the people ran to them in the portico called Solomon's, utterly astonished. This sets the stage for Peter's subsequent sermon (Acts 3:11). Lessons from Acts 3 1. The Power of Prayer and Fellowship In Acts 3, we see Peter and John heading to the temple for prayer, highlighting the importance of communal worship and prayer. "One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour" (Acts 3:1). This reminds us that gathering together in prayer strengthens our faith and unites us in purpose. Make time for fellowship and prayer in your daily routine to stay connected with God and fellow believers. 2. Be Ready to Share What You Have When Peter and John encounter a lame man asking for alms, Peter responds, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you" (Acts 3:6). This teaches us to be prepared to share our spiritual gifts and the message of Christ, even when material resources are limited. Always be ready to offer what truly matters—hope and salvation through Jesus. 3. Faith in Jesus Brings Healing Peter declares, "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!" (Acts 3:6). The man is healed through faith in Jesus' name, demonstrating the transformative power of faith. Trust in Jesus can bring healing and restoration to our lives, both physically and spiritually. Let this be a reminder to place your faith in Him for all your needs. 4. Miracles Open Doors for the Gospel The healing of the lame man astonishes the crowd, providing Peter with an opportunity to preach. "When Peter saw this, he addressed the people" (Acts 3:12). Miracles and acts of kindness can open doors for sharing the Gospel. Be attentive to how God might use your actions to create opportunities for evangelism. 5. Give Glory to God, Not Yourself Peter quickly redirects the crowd's amazement away from himself and towards God, saying, "Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?" (Acts 3:12). Always give credit to God for the good things in your life, acknowledging His power and grace at work. 6. The Fulfillment of Prophecy Peter explains that the healing is a fulfillment of what God foretold through the prophets. "But this is how God fulfilled what He foretold through all the prophets" (Acts 3:18). This underscores the consistency and reliability of Scripture. Study the Bible to see how God's promises are fulfilled, strengthening your faith in His Word. 7. Repentance Leads to Refreshing Peter calls the people to repentance, promising that "times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord" (Acts 3:19). Repentance is not just about turning away from sin but also about turning towards God, leading to spiritual renewal and peace. Make repentance a regular part of your spiritual practice. 8. Jesus is the Promised Messiah Peter affirms Jesus as the Messiah, saying, "He must remain in heaven until the time comes for God to restore everything" (Acts 3:21). Recognize Jesus as the fulfillment of God's promises and the central figure of our faith. This understanding is crucial for a strong and unwavering belief. 9. The Importance of Listening to Jesus Peter warns that those who do not listen to Jesus will be cut off. "Anyone who does not listen to Him will be completely cut off from among His people" (Acts 3:23). Prioritize listening to Jesus through Scripture and prayer, ensuring His teachings guide your life. 10. You Are Part of God's Covenant Peter reminds the people of their place in God's covenant, saying, "You are the sons of the prophets and of the covenant God made with your fathers" (Acts 3:25). As believers, we are part of this covenant, heirs to God's promises. Embrace your identity in Christ and live out your faith with confidence and joy. Topics 1. The Healing of the Lame Beggar (Acts 3:1-10) Peter and John encounter a man lame from birth at the temple gate called Beautiful. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, Peter commands the man to walk, and he is miraculously healed. This event draws attention from the people, highlighting the power of faith in Jesus. The Greek word used for "healed" (ἰάομαι, iaomai) emphasizes a complete and miraculous healing. 2. Peter's Address to the Onlookers (Acts 3:11-16) As the healed man clings to Peter and John, a crowd gathers in Solomon's Colonnade. Peter seizes the opportunity to address the people, attributing the miracle to Jesus, whom they had denied and killed. He emphasizes that faith in Jesus' name has brought about the man's healing, using the Greek term "πίστις" (pistis) for faith, indicating trust and belief. 3. Call to Repentance and Promise of Restoration (Acts 3:17-21) Peter acknowledges the ignorance of the people and their leaders in crucifying Jesus, fulfilling what God had foretold through the prophets. He calls them to repent and turn to God so that their sins may be wiped out, and times of refreshing may come. The Greek word for "repent" (μετανοέω, metanoeō) implies a change of mind and direction. 4. Prophetic Fulfillment and the Role of Jesus (Acts 3:22-26) Peter references Moses and other prophets, affirming that Jesus is the promised Prophet like Moses. He warns that those who do not listen to Jesus will be cut off. Peter concludes by stating that God raised up His Servant Jesus to bless them by turning them from their wicked ways, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's covenant with Abraham. The Greek term "προφήτης" (prophētēs) is used for prophet, indicating one who speaks forth God's message. Themes 1. Divine Healing and Miracles Acts 3:6-8 describes the miraculous healing of a lame man by Peter, emphasizing the power of Jesus' name: "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!" This theme highlights the continuation of Jesus' healing ministry through His apostles, underscoring the Greek term "δύναμις" (dynamis), meaning power or miracle. 2. Faith in Jesus' Name The healing in Acts 3:16 is attributed to faith in Jesus' name: "By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know has been made strong." This theme stresses the importance of faith as a conduit for divine power, with "πίστις" (pistis) being the Greek word for faith, indicating trust and belief. 3. Fulfillment of Prophecy Peter's speech in Acts 3:18-24 connects Jesus' life and mission to Old Testament prophecies: "But in this way God has fulfilled what He foretold through all the prophets." This theme underscores the continuity between the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament, affirming Jesus as the promised Messiah. 4. Call to Repentance Acts 3:19 calls for repentance: "Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away." The Greek word "μετανοέω" (metanoeō) means to change one's mind or purpose, emphasizing a transformative turning away from sin towards God. 5. Restoration and Refreshing Acts 3:20-21 speaks of times of refreshing and the restoration of all things: "that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord." This theme points to eschatological hope and renewal, with "ἀποκατάστασις" (apokatastasis) referring to restoration or reestablishment. 6. Witness to the Resurrection Peter's message in Acts 3:15 highlights the apostles as witnesses to Jesus' resurrection: "You killed the Author of life, but God raised Him from the dead, and we are witnesses of the fact." This theme emphasizes the centrality of the resurrection in apostolic preaching and the Greek term "μάρτυς" (martys), meaning witness. 7. Jesus as the Author of Life Acts 3:15 refers to Jesus as the "Author of life," a profound title that underscores His divine nature and role in creation. The Greek word "ἀρχηγός" (archēgos) can mean leader, originator, or author, highlighting Jesus' preeminence and creative authority. Prayer Points Pray for Boldness Ask God to give you the courage to speak His truth and share the gospel with those around you. Pray for Opportunities Seek God’s guidance to recognize and seize opportunities to witness to others. Pray for Repentance Request a heart of repentance, open to God’s correction and eager for His forgiveness. Pray for Healing Lift up those in need of physical, emotional, or spiritual healing, trusting in the power of Jesus' name. May this study of Acts 3 inspire you to live boldly for Christ, recognizing His power at work in and through you. Answering Tough Questions 1. Acts 3:2–10: How can this miracle be scientifically explained if the man was lame from birth? 2. Acts 3:11–12: Why is there no external historical or archaeological record of this widely witnessed healing in the Temple? 3. Acts 3:12–16: Is there corroborating evidence outside the Bible confirming that Peter actually performed such healings? 4. Acts 3:17–18: How does Peter’s statement align with Old Testament prophecies when they seem vague or unconnected? 5. Acts 3:19–21: Why has the promised “time of restoration” not occurred despite nearly two millennia passing? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the healing of the lame man illustrate the power of faith in Jesus Christ? 2. In what ways can believers today demonstrate the healing power of Christ in their communities? 3. What significance does Peter's choice of location (the temple) bear for his audience and message? 4. How does Peter use the crowd's familiarity with their traditions and prophecies to deliver his sermon? 5. How does this chapter illustrate the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering the apostles for ministry? 6. What can we learn from Peter's boldness in confronting the crowd about their role in Jesus' death? 7. How does Peter's sermon demonstrate the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in Jesus Christ? 8. How does the reaction of the crowd to the healed beggar reflect their understanding of God's power? 9. What does Peter's invitation to repentance imply about the nature of God and His desire for humanity? 10. How does the transformation of the lame beggar mirror the spiritual transformation that takes place through faith in Christ? 11. How can we, like Peter and John, be observant and seize opportunities to demonstrate the love and power of God in everyday situations? 12. How does the miracle performed through Peter affirm the continued presence and power of Jesus after His ascension? 13. In what ways does the crowd's astonishment at the miracle show their lack of understanding of Jesus' true identity and mission? 14. How does Peter’s sermon reflect the approach we should take when calling others to repentance and faith in Jesus? 15. How does this chapter challenge your understanding of how miracles can be used in evangelism? 16. How might you boldly confront sin in your life and in the lives of others with truth and grace, following Peter’s example? 17. How does the people’s response to Peter’s message compare to modern responses to the call to repentance and faith in Christ? 18. How does the message of the prophets concerning the Messiah apply to us today? 19. What does the healed man's immediate response to his healing teach us about gratitude and praise? 20. How can we use our testimonies, like the healed man, to point others to Christ? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions