What can we learn from Peter's response to the crowd in Acts 3:11? Setting the Scene—Acts 3:11 “While the man clung to Peter and John, all the people were astonished and ran to them in the portico called Solomon’s Colonnade.” Why the Crowd Matters • A genuine miracle has just occurred; astonishment gathers an audience. • The healed man’s physical embrace of Peter and John visually authenticates the testimony (cf. Mark 5:19). • A public setting—Solomon’s Colonnade—provides maximum exposure for the gospel (cf. John 10:23). Peter’s Instinctive Gospel Reflex Though verse 11 describes the crowd’s reaction, verse 12 reveals Peter’s immediate reply: “When Peter saw this, he addressed the people: ‘Men of Israel, why are you amazed at this? …’” Key takeaways: • He seizes the moment; amazement becomes an open door (Colossians 4:5). • He redirects attention from the apostles to Christ, guarding against misplaced worship (Acts 14:15). • He treats curiosity as fertile ground for repentance, not entertainment. Lessons for Today 1. Recognize God-Given Platforms - Unexpected interest in spiritual things is God’s invitation to speak (1 Peter 3:15). - Miracles, answers to prayer, or changed lives should lead naturally to gospel proclamation. 2. Deflect Glory to Christ - Peter refuses personal credit (Acts 3:12–13). - A servant mindset protects against pride (2 Corinthians 4:7). 3. Keep Scripture Central - Peter anchors his explanation in prophecy (Acts 3:18; cf. Isaiah 53). - Grounding experiences in the written Word ensures sound doctrine. 4. Call for a Response - His sermon quickly moves to repentance and faith (Acts 3:19). - Amazement alone is insufficient; the crowd must turn to Jesus. 5. Expect Spiritual Opportunity in Ordinary Places - Solomon’s Colonnade was a busy walkway; everyday locations can host divine encounters (Acts 5:15–16). Putting It Into Practice • Stay alert to moments of interest or confusion around you. • Speak promptly, humbly, and boldly, steering all attention to Christ. • Use Scripture as your framework, showing how every work of God points to Jesus. |
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