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Here is a lesson which shows the power of the gospel in two directions — the elements of gospel power and the effects of gospel power.

I. THE ELEMENTS OF POWER IN THE GOSPEL. What forces are disclosed in these verses?

1. We see the power which dwells in organisation. This is hinted in Peter's journey "throughout all quarters." The bands of disciples throughout Judaea were united under a central head and with a form of discipline. Unity gives power.

2. We see the power in sympathy. Peter found the palsied AEneas; Dorcas sought out the needy and sorrowing; and in the Church we note the interest which prompted the sending for Peter. This care for others has ever been an element of power in Christianity.

3. We note also the power in character. A character like that of Dorcas could not remain concealed. One who lived to do good could not help exerting an influence. The character and influence of God's people are most potent factors in the spread of the gospel.

4. But mightier than all human elements is the Divine power of the gospel. AEneas arose to health, and Dorcas was called back from death through the supernatural power of a living Christ. These were the tokens of a power for which no human philosophy can account in the history of the Church. Miracles more wonderful in the conversion of souls are of daily occurrence.

II. What EFFECTS OF GOSPEL POWER do we see in this story?

1. Holiness; expressed in the name "saints" applied to the followers of Christ. Christianity has given to the world a new ideal of character.

2. Practical works of usefulness. Christians have been at work feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, relieving the needy, ever since the days of Dorcas. Every hospital and asylum and charitable institution on the earth is a tribute to the power of the gospel.

3. Growth. Verses 35 and 42 call attention to the growing numbers of the Christian Church. The gospel is a seed reproducing itself by the million. This is another result of its inward power.

4. Victory over death. The restoration of Dorcas to life was only a feeble type of the more wonderful triumph of the Christian over the grave. Hers was a few hours after death; ours may be a few centuries. Both her restoration and our resurrection are wrought by the same power.

(Monday Club Sermon.)

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KJV: Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.

WEB: Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which when translated, means Dorcas. This woman was full of good works and acts of mercy which she did.