In the Name
Acts 3:6-7 record, “Then Peter said, ‘Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.’ And he took him by the right hand and lifted him up,
and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength.” That was a miracle like those of Jesus, with a major difference. Jesus healed by His own authority. Peter healed in Jesus’ name—Jesus’ authority. The work that Jesus did in His earthly ministry was continued in the church. In Scripture, miracles were performed in service to the Word. In Scripture, miracles confirmed God’s presence in the gospel. In Scripture, miracles were a sign that enabled faith. Look closer at the miracle performed that day. First, it occurred in the course of faithful service, v. 1 … “Now Peter and John went up together to the temple at the hour of prayer.” Second, it occurred as they focused on need, vv. 3-5 … “Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, [he] asked for alms. And fixing his eyes on him, with John, Peter said, ‘Look at us.’ Was it about generosity? Yes, but not the way he was thinking. Third, it occurred to reveal the real need, v. 6a … “Then Peter said, ‘Silver and gold I do not have.’” More precious than silver or gold—the precious blood of Jesus. Fourth, the miracle occurred to establish faith, v. 8 … “So he, leaping up, stood and walked and entered the temple with them … praising God.” The lame man was made acceptable by his physical healing, but all are made acceptable by spiritual means in Jesus Christ. The miracle also impacted the unsaved multitudes—“they were filled with wonder and amazement.” They were ready to hear Peter’s sermon of explanation.
Sin cera, Erik
Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.
