How can Acts 3:12 inspire us to witness boldly about Jesus today? Miracle and Message: the Moment of Acts 3:12 “But when Peter saw this, he addressed the people: ‘Men of Israel, why does this surprise you? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?’” (Acts 3:12) • A literal, public healing outside the temple instantly draws a crowd. • Peter seizes the moment, redirects amazement from himself to Jesus, and explains the gospel (vv. 13-26). • The verse spotlights bold witness rooted not in self but in the risen Christ. Three Traits of Peter’s Bold Witness • Christ-centered humility – He refuses credit: “not by our own power.” (cf. John 15:5) • Scriptural confidence – He immediately ties the miracle to God’s covenant promises (vv. 13, 18, 22-24). • Spirit-empowered courage – He speaks openly to the very crowd that had demanded Jesus’ death (vv. 13-15; Acts 4:8). Translating Peter’s Boldness into Today’s World 1. Redirect awe toward Jesus – When complimented for charity, talent, or success, point to God’s grace: “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1:31) 2. Keep Scripture on your tongue – Memorize key verses on Christ’s identity (Isaiah 53:5; John 14:6). – Use them naturally in conversation as Peter did. 3. Depend on the Holy Spirit, not personality – Pray for filling (Ephesians 5:18) before meetings, classes, job sites. – Expect God to open doors (Colossians 4:3-4). 4. Speak to real needs – Peter addressed a healed man; we might address anxiety, broken homes, or moral confusion. – Share how Jesus meets those needs (Matthew 11:28-30). 5. Keep the resurrection central – Peter’s message hinges on “whom God raised from the dead” (v. 15). – Bold witness today must anchor hope in the empty tomb (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). Handling Pushback with Scripture • Accusation: “You’re arrogant to claim one way.” – Response: “Salvation is found in no one else.” (Acts 4:12) • Fear of rejection – Promise: “I am with you always.” (Matthew 28:20) • Doubt about effectiveness – Assurance: God’s word “will not return void.” (Isaiah 55:11) Living the Challenge This Week • Identify one setting where people “stare” at human ability—workplace success, athletic skill, artistry. • Ask the Spirit for an opening to turn that attention to Christ. • Share one concrete example of what Jesus has done—both in history (resurrection) and in your life (transformation). • Rest in God’s power; like Peter, you are not responsible for the miracle of new birth—only to witness to it. |
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