Biblical Context:
Peter's response to the beggar is a significant event recorded in the Book of Acts, specifically in Acts 3:1-10. This passage describes a miraculous healing performed by the Apostle Peter, which serves as a testament to the power of faith in Jesus Christ and the authority given to the apostles through the Holy Spirit.

Scriptural Account:
The event takes place shortly after Pentecost, a time when the early church was experiencing rapid growth and the apostles were actively preaching the gospel. Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour (Acts 3:1). As they approached the temple gate called Beautiful, they encountered a man who had been lame from birth. This man was carried daily to the temple gate to beg for alms from those entering the temple (Acts 3:2).

Peter's Response:
When the beggar saw Peter and John, he asked them for money. Peter, directed by the Holy Spirit, looked intently at the man and said, "Look at us!" (Acts 3:4). The beggar gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them. However, Peter's response was unexpected: "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!" (Acts 3:6).

Miraculous Healing:
Peter then took the man by the right hand and helped him up. Immediately, the man's feet and ankles were strengthened, and he began to walk. He entered the temple courts with Peter and John, walking, leaping, and praising God (Acts 3:7-8). This miraculous healing astonished the people who recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate. They were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him (Acts 3:9-10).

Theological Significance:
Peter's response to the beggar highlights several key theological themes. First, it underscores the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ. The healing was performed "in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth," signifying the authority and power vested in the apostles through their relationship with Christ. This event also illustrates the early church's mission to continue the work of Jesus, bringing physical and spiritual healing to those in need.

Furthermore, Peter's declaration that he had no silver or gold emphasizes the value of spiritual riches over material wealth. The apostles prioritized the proclamation of the gospel and the demonstration of God's power over earthly possessions. This aligns with the teachings of Jesus, who often spoke of the kingdom of God as being of greater worth than worldly treasures.

Impact on the Early Church:
The healing of the beggar served as a powerful witness to the early church and the surrounding community. It provided an opportunity for Peter to preach to the gathered crowd, explaining that the miracle was a result of faith in Jesus and calling them to repentance (Acts 3:11-26). This event contributed to the growing number of believers and the spread of the gospel message in Jerusalem and beyond.

In summary, Peter's response to the beggar is a profound example of the apostolic ministry in action, demonstrating the power of Jesus' name and the mission of the early church to bring healing and salvation to a broken world.