The account of the raising of Dorcas, also known as Tabitha, is a significant miracle performed by the Apostle Peter, one of Jesus' closest disciples. This event is recorded in the Acts of the Apostles, specifically in Acts 9:36-42. It highlights the power of God working through His apostles and serves as a testament to the early church's faith and the divine authority bestowed upon the disciples.

Context and Background

Dorcas, whose Aramaic name is Tabitha, was a beloved disciple in the city of Joppa. She was known for her good works and acts of charity, particularly her care for the poor and the widows. Acts 9:36 describes her as "full of good works and acts of charity." Her life exemplified the Christian virtues of love and service, making her an integral part of the early Christian community.

The Miracle

The narrative unfolds with the death of Dorcas, which brought great sorrow to the believers in Joppa. Her body was washed and placed in an upper room, a customary practice in preparation for burial. The disciples in Joppa, aware of Peter's presence in the nearby town of Lydda, sent two men to urge him to come without delay.

Upon his arrival, Peter was taken to the upper room where Dorcas' body lay. The widows stood by, weeping and showing him the garments Dorcas had made while she was with them, underscoring her impact and the void her death had created.

Peter, following the example of Jesus, sent everyone out of the room. He then knelt down and prayed. Turning to the body, he said, "Tabitha, get up." Acts 9:40 records, "She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter, she sat up." Peter then gave her his hand and helped her to her feet. This miraculous event was not only a testament to the power of God but also a reaffirmation of the authority given to the apostles to perform such acts in Jesus' name.

Impact and Significance

The raising of Dorcas from the dead had a profound impact on the community. Acts 9:42 states, "This became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord." The miracle served as a powerful witness to the truth of the Gospel and the divine power at work through the apostles. It reinforced the message of resurrection and eternal life, central tenets of the Christian faith.

Furthermore, this miracle demonstrated the compassion and care of the early church for its members, particularly the vulnerable, such as widows. Dorcas' life and subsequent raising from the dead highlighted the importance of service and charity within the Christian community, setting a precedent for future generations of believers.

Theological Reflections

From a theological perspective, the raising of Dorcas underscores the continuity of Jesus' ministry through His apostles. It illustrates the fulfillment of Jesus' promise that His followers would do "greater works" (John 14:12) through the power of the Holy Spirit. This miracle, like others performed by the apostles, served to authenticate their message and mission, drawing many to faith in Christ.

The event also serves as a reminder of the hope of resurrection for all believers. Dorcas' return to life is a foretaste of the ultimate resurrection that awaits all who are in Christ, affirming the Christian hope in life beyond death.Acts 9:40
But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.
Nave's Topical Index

Acts ix. 26, 27
... for there was the likeness of the disciples plainly to ... he says to the lame man himself,
"Jesus Christ maketh ... They did not perform all their miracles with the ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on acts and romans/homily xxi acts ix 26.htm

Acts IX
... history; for the argument depends not upon miracles, but upon the ... came into the company
of weeping disciples, he seems ... sleep on in the arms of Jesus, till both ...
/.../mcgarvey/a commentary on acts of the apostles/acts ix.htm

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