Acts 3:12

And when Peter saw this, he addressed the people: "Men of Israel, why are you surprised by this? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?

Study Bible

When Peter saw this
Peter, one of the foremost apostles, is quick to recognize the opportunity to address the crowd. The Greek word for "saw" (εἶδεν, eiden) implies not just physical sight but understanding and perception. Peter perceives the spiritual significance of the moment, recognizing it as a divine appointment to witness to the power of Jesus Christ. This reflects the apostolic awareness and readiness to act as vessels of God's work.

he addressed the people
The Greek word for "addressed" (ἀπεκρίνατο, apekrinato) suggests a formal response or declaration. Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, takes on the role of a preacher and teacher, ready to explain the miraculous event. This moment is reminiscent of the prophets of old, who spoke boldly to the people of Israel, calling them back to God.

Men of Israel
Peter's address to the "Men of Israel" is significant. It connects the miracle to the heritage and history of the Jewish people. The phrase is a call to attention, reminding the audience of their identity as God's chosen people. It is a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, and Peter is about to reveal how Jesus is the fulfillment of that covenant.

why are you surprised by this?
The Greek word for "surprised" (θαυμάζετε, thaumazete) conveys a sense of wonder and amazement. Peter challenges the crowd's astonishment, suggesting that they should expect such works from the God of Israel. This rhetorical question is designed to provoke thought and reflection on the nature of God's power and the fulfillment of prophecy through Jesus.

Why do you stare at us
Peter redirects the focus from himself and John to God. The Greek word for "stare" (ἀτενίζετε, atenizete) implies a fixed gaze, often associated with awe or reverence. Peter is quick to clarify that the miracle is not by human means, but by divine intervention. This humility is a hallmark of Christian leadership, always pointing back to God as the source of all power.

as if by our own power or godliness
Peter emphasizes that neither human "power" (δυνάμει, dynamei) nor "godliness" (εὐσεβείᾳ, eusebeia) is responsible for the miracle. The term "power" refers to inherent ability or strength, while "godliness" denotes piety or religious devotion. Peter's statement underscores the Christian doctrine that all miracles are acts of God, not human achievement, and that true godliness is found in submission to God's will.

we had made this man walk
The miracle of making the man walk is a testament to the power of Jesus' name. The phrase "made this man walk" highlights the transformative power of faith in Christ. It is a physical manifestation of spiritual truth: just as the man was physically healed, so too can individuals be spiritually restored through faith in Jesus. This miracle serves as a sign pointing to the greater reality of salvation and the coming of God's kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Peter
One of Jesus' twelve apostles, a leader in the early church, and the speaker in this passage. He is addressing the crowd after healing a lame man.

2. John
Another apostle present with Peter during the healing of the lame man at the temple gate called Beautiful.

3. The Lame Man
A man who was lame from birth and was healed by Peter and John in the name of Jesus Christ.

4. The Temple
Specifically, the gate called Beautiful, where the healing took place, a significant location for Jewish worship and gathering.

5. The Crowd
The people of Israel who witnessed the miracle and were astonished, prompting Peter's address.

Teaching Points

Divine Power, Not Human Ability
Peter emphasizes that the miracle was not due to their own power or godliness but through Jesus Christ. This teaches us to rely on God's power rather than our own abilities.

Witnessing Through Miracles
Miracles serve as a testimony to God's power and can open doors for sharing the Gospel. We should be prepared to point others to Christ when God works through us.

Humility in Service
Peter's response reflects humility, redirecting glory to God. In our service, we should always give credit to God for any success or impact.

Faith in Action
The healing of the lame man is an example of faith in action. We are called to step out in faith, trusting God to work through us.

Understanding God's Work
The crowd's surprise indicates a lack of understanding of God's work. We should seek to understand and recognize God's hand in our lives and the world around us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Peter's response in Acts 3:12 challenge our understanding of where power and godliness come from in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are giving glory to God rather than taking credit for ourselves when He works through us?

3. How can the healing of the lame man inspire us to have faith in God's ability to work miracles today?

4. What are some practical ways we can prepare ourselves to witness to others when God performs a work in our lives?

5. How can we cultivate a deeper understanding and recognition of God's work in our daily lives, similar to the crowd's need for understanding in Acts 3:12?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 2:22-24
Peter's previous sermon at Pentecost, where he emphasizes that Jesus was accredited by God through miracles, wonders, and signs.

John 14:12
Jesus' promise that those who believe in Him will do the works He has been doing, and even greater things.

Isaiah 35:6
A prophecy about the lame leaping like a deer, which is fulfilled in the healing of the lame man.

Matthew 10:1
Jesus gives His disciples authority to heal the sick and perform miracles, which is demonstrated in this event.