Biblical Context:
The account of the apostles healing many is primarily found in the Book of Acts, specifically in Acts 5:12-16. This passage highlights the early days of the Christian church following the ascension of Jesus Christ and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. The apostles, empowered by the Holy Spirit, performed numerous signs and wonders among the people, which served to authenticate their message and demonstrate the power of God at work through them.

Scriptural Account:
Acts 5:12-16 states: "The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people, and with one accord the believers gathered together in Solomon’s Colonnade. Although the people regarded them highly, no one else dared to join them. Yet more and more believers were brought to the Lord—large numbers of both men and women. 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. Crowds also gathered from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing the sick and those tormented by unclean spirits, and all of them were healed."

Theological Significance:
The healing ministry of the apostles is a testament to the continuation of Jesus' work through His followers. The miracles performed by the apostles served several purposes: they confirmed the truth of the apostles' teaching, demonstrated the compassion of God, and provided a foretaste of the coming Kingdom of God where there will be no more sickness or suffering.

The passage underscores the authority given to the apostles by Christ. In John 14:12, Jesus promised that those who believe in Him would do the works He did and even greater works. The healings and miracles performed by the apostles are a fulfillment of this promise, showcasing the power of faith and the Holy Spirit.

Historical and Cultural Context:
In the first-century Jewish context, miraculous healings were seen as signs of divine favor and authority. The apostles' ability to heal the sick and cast out demons would have been a powerful testimony to both Jews and Gentiles of the divine origin of their message. The reference to Peter's shadow healing the sick reflects the deep reverence and faith the people had in the apostles' connection to God.

Impact on the Early Church:
The healings performed by the apostles contributed to the rapid growth of the early church. As Acts 5:14 notes, "more and more believers were brought to the Lord—large numbers of both men and women." The miracles attracted attention and drew people to the message of the Gospel, leading to conversions and the expansion of the Christian community.

Spiritual Lessons:
The account of the apostles healing many serves as a reminder of the power of faith and the importance of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. It encourages Christians to trust in God's power to work through them and to be vessels of His love and healing in the world. The passage also highlights the importance of unity and prayer, as the believers gathered together in one accord, creating an environment where God's power could be manifest.

Contemporary Application:
While the specific apostolic gifts of healing may not be present in the same way today, the principle of God working through His people remains relevant. Christians are called to be agents of healing and reconciliation in a broken world, whether through prayer, acts of kindness, or sharing the Gospel. The passage challenges believers to have faith in God's ability to work miracles and to seek His guidance in ministering to those in need.