Acts 3:1-10

God did not give upon the people of Jerusalem.  Most of Christ’s ministry had taken place in the countryside and small towns away from there.  When he went to Jerusalem, the corrupt leaders were quick to have him crucified.  For this reason, many of the people in the city were not familiar with Christ or his teachings.  Rumors of his miracles had surely spread, but few in the city would have ever personally witnessed them.  Almost everyone would have heard about his crucifixion.  They would have known that their religious leaders had accused him of blaspheming.  Although their leaders had made their decision about Christ, most of the people still did not know what to think.

The disciples and new Christians did not denounce Judaism.  They continued temple worship, and on this day, they went to the temple for afternoon prayer.  God had taught the Jews to be generous people and for that reason, beggars would often sit near the temple.  When the beggar asked them for money, Peter and John had none to give.  That was fine; Christ does not want his followers going about the business of enriching themselves.  Christians worship God, not money.  Christ taught his disciples to be servants to others, not slaves to their own desires.

The disciples were teaching the people of Jerusalem about Jesus.  The opportunity to heal the beggar in the name of Jesus, allowed them to demonstrate His power.  The gospel of Jesus was not and is not empty words; it is powerful.

Jesus once asked, “Which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’?” (Matthew 9:5 NIV) In Greek, the word for healing and saving is the same.  Many people need healing, but when Christ miraculously heals someone, it is temporary.  Everyone is born needing salvation, and the salvation of Christ is eternal.  God does not always heal the sick.  The gift of salvation is guaranteed.  The Gospel tells us, Christ will save all who call upon his name in faith and repentance.