What role does faith play in witnessing God's miracles, as seen in Acts 9:40? A Living Scene: Acts 9:40 in Focus Peter “knelt down and prayed. Turning toward the body, he said, ‘Tabitha, get up.’ She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter, she sat up.” (Acts 9:40) The Faith Dynamic in the Room • Peter removes every distraction—sending everyone out—so nothing competes with earnest, undiluted faith. • He kneels, acknowledging full dependence on the Lord, not on technique or reputation. • Prayer precedes command; faith looks first to God, then speaks in His authority. • Peter’s words echo Christ’s healings (Mark 5:41). The apostle’s confidence rests on Jesus’ prior example and promise (John 14:12). Faith Opens the Way for Divine Action 1. Faith aligns us with God’s will • “Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do.” (John 14:13) • Peter’s appeal is not presumptuous; it flows from previous commission (Matthew 10:8). 2. Faith invites God’s power into human impossibility • Tabitha is dead—beyond any human remedy. • “With God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26). 3. Faith speaks with expectation • “Do not be afraid; only believe.” (Mark 5:36). • Peter’s simple command, “Tabitha, get up,” presumes God will act as asked. Scripture Echoes of Miracles Tied to Faith • Jairus’s daughter: belief precedes resurrection (Luke 8:50–55). • Lazarus: “Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God?” (John 11:40). • Centurion’s servant: Jesus marvels at the centurion’s faith and heals from a distance (Matthew 8:10). Practical Take-Aways for Today • Remove clutter—quiet your heart before praying for the impossible. • Anchor petitions in explicit promises of Scripture. • Pray first, speak second; faith listens before it commands. • Expect God to answer in harmony with His character and Word. • Give Him glory when the answer arrives, just as the saints in Joppa did (Acts 9:41–42). Why Faith Matters Faith is not a mere mental assent; it is trusting surrender that creates space for God’s intervention. Acts 9:40 showcases faith’s twin posture: humble prayer and confident proclamation. Where that posture is present, the Lord delights to display His power—then, and now. |
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