How does Acts 2:43 connect to the miracles of Jesus in the Gospels? Acts 2:43 in Focus “A sense of awe came over everyone, and the apostles performed many wonders and signs.” (Acts 2:43) Miracles Jesus Performed in the Gospels • Healing the sick (Matthew 8:16–17; Mark 1:40–42) • Casting out demons (Mark 5:1–20) • Power over nature (Mark 4:35–41) • Raising the dead (Luke 7:11–17; John 11:38–44) • Multiplying food (Matthew 14:13–21) • Opening blind eyes (John 9:1–7) Key Connections Between Acts 2:43 and Jesus’ Miracles 1. Same Source of Power • Jesus ministered “by the Spirit of God” (Matthew 12:28). • The apostles move in that same Spirit, freshly poured out at Pentecost (Acts 2:1–4). 2. Promised Continuation • “Whoever believes in Me will also do the works that I am doing, and he will do even greater things” (John 14:12). • Acts 2:43 shows that promise coming alive in real time. 3. Ongoing Authentication of the Gospel • Jesus’ signs confirmed His identity (John 20:30–31). • Apostolic signs validate their message that the risen Jesus is Lord (Acts 4:33; Hebrews 2:3–4). 4. Compassionate Kingdom Preview • Jesus’ miracles revealed God’s heart to restore creation. • The apostles’ miracles continue that preview, showing the in-breaking kingdom (Luke 10:9). 5. Training Put to Use • During Jesus’ ministry He gave the Twelve “power and authority over all demons and to heal diseases” (Luke 9:1–2). • Acts 2:43 records them exercising what He already entrusted to them. 6. Fulfillment of the Great Commission • “Surely I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). • The risen Christ remains present through miraculous works done in His name (Mark 16:17–20; Acts 3:6–8). 7. Continuity of Witness to Israel • Jesus’ signs targeted Israel’s restoration hopes (Isaiah 35:5–6 fulfilled in Matthew 11:4–5). • Acts 2:43 occurs in Jerusalem, signaling to Israel that God’s promised age has dawned. Implications for the Early Church • Awe-filled community life grows when God’s power is openly displayed. • Wonders and signs bolster courage for preaching (Acts 4:29–31). • Miracles draw seekers (Acts 5:12–16) while also provoking opposition (Acts 4:16–18). Takeaways Today • The same risen Jesus still empowers His people through the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:11). • Miracles remain a reminder that the gospel is living truth, not mere words (1 Corinthians 4:20). • Awe before God fosters unity and mission-minded living, just as in Acts 2. |
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