What role does faith play in the healing of the crippled man? Setting the Scene at Lystra • “In Lystra sat a man crippled in his feet, who had been lame from birth and had never walked. • This man was listening to the words of Paul, who looked directly at him and saw that he had faith to be healed. • In a loud voice Paul called out, ‘Stand up on your feet!’ At this, the man jumped up and began to walk.” Listening that Sparks Faith • The lame man “was listening to the words of Paul.” • Romans 10:17 — “So faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” • Genuine faith is ignited when the gospel is proclaimed; Paul’s message plants faith in the listener’s heart. Faith Identified and Affirmed • Paul “saw that he had faith to be healed.” – Faith is visible through spiritual discernment (cf. Luke 5:20, where Jesus “saw their faith”). • Faith is not mere optimism; it is trust in God’s power and character revealed in the gospel. Faith Activated in Obedience • Paul commands, “Stand up on your feet!” • The crippled man responds immediately—an outward act that confirms inward belief. • Other parallels: – Mark 5:34 — “Daughter, your faith has healed you.” – Luke 17:19 — “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.” • In each case, faith motivates action that cooperates with God’s word. Faith’s Fruit: Complete Restoration • “The man jumped up and began to walk.” • Acts 3:16 reveals the same pattern: “By faith in His name, this man you see and know was made strong.” • Healing validates the gospel message, glorifies Christ, and strengthens believers. Lessons for Us Today • Faith begins with attentive hearing of Scripture. • Faith is recognized and nurtured within the body; mature believers encourage it. • Faith responds in obedience, even when commands seem impossible. • Faith receives God’s gracious power, whether for physical healing, spiritual renewal, or daily endurance (James 5:15; Hebrews 11:6). |
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