How does Acts 4:9 demonstrate the power of Jesus' name in healing? Setting of the Verse Acts 4 opens with Peter and John standing before the Sanhedrin after healing a man who had been lame from birth (Acts 3:1-10). Religious leaders demand to know by what power or name this miracle occurred. The Question Before the Council “ ‘If we are being examined today about a kind service to a crippled man, to determine how he was healed…’ ” (Acts 4:9). Peter frames the inquiry as an investigation into a “kind service,” spotlighting both the benevolent nature of the act and the undeniable fact of the man’s restoration. Key Observations About the Power of Jesus’ Name • The Sanhedrin acknowledges a genuine healing; debate centers on the source, not the reality, of the miracle. • Peter explicitly ties the healing to “the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth” (Acts 4:10). The miracle functions as public evidence that Jesus, though crucified, is alive and active. • In biblical thought, a “name” represents the person and authority behind it (cf. Proverbs 18:10). Thus, invoking Jesus’ name means calling on His living presence and sovereign power. • The healed man stands beside the apostles (Acts 4:14), a living witness that the name of Jesus carries authority even over congenital conditions considered irreversible. • By referencing a “crippled man,” Peter underscores that the power in Jesus’ name addresses physical brokenness, not merely spiritual need. Supporting Biblical Evidence • Acts 3:6 — “Peter said, ‘Silver and gold I do not have, but what I have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk!’ ” The command itself is issued in Jesus’ name, showing it is the operative force. • Acts 3:16 — “By faith in His name, this man whom you see and know has been made strong.” Faith and the name are inseparable in effecting the healing. • Mark 16:17-18 — Jesus promised signs “in My name,” including healing. Acts 4:9 records that promise fulfilled. • John 14:13-14 — “Whatever you ask in My name, I will do it.” The apostles act on this assurance, confident that Jesus honors His word. Implications for Believers Today • Jesus’ name remains the channel through which God releases power—physical, emotional, spiritual. • Public testimony to Christ’s authority is essential; Peter openly credits Jesus rather than accepting personal acclaim. • Miracles serve a larger evangelistic purpose, validating the gospel message (Acts 4:12). • Confidence in Scripture’s literal record of healing fuels boldness in prayer and ministry, expecting God to act consistently with His revealed character. |
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