How does Acts 3:9 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? The Two Passages Side-by-Side • Acts 3:9: “When all the people saw him walking and praising God,” • Matthew 28:19-20: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Public Testimony That Opens Doors • Acts 3:9 records a healed man openly “walking and praising God.” • The visible transformation gathers a curious crowd (3:10-11), giving Peter an immediate platform to preach Jesus—exactly what the Great Commission envisions. • Public praise leads naturally to public proclamation; the miracle becomes a living illustration of the gospel the apostles are commissioned to spread. Miracle as Authentication of Christ’s Presence • Matthew 28:20 promises, “I am with you always.” • In Acts 3, that promise materializes: Jesus’ power heals through His apostles, confirming His ongoing presence (see also Mark 16:20). • The sign validates Peter’s message (3:12-16), showing that the risen Christ actively backs the Commission with authority and power. From Jerusalem to the Nations—The Strategic Starting Point • Jesus said to begin in Jerusalem (Luke 24:47; Acts 1:8). Acts 3 occurs at the temple gate—Judaism’s epicenter—fulfilling the “starting point” of the worldwide mission. • Pilgrims in Jerusalem (Acts 2:5, 11) carry the testimony outward, echoing the “all nations” scope of Matthew 28:19. Walking and Praising: A Picture of Discipleship • “Walking” signals new life and obedience (Ephesians 2:10; 5:8). • “Praising God” models the worshipful lifestyle Jesus desires (John 4:23-24). • Thus the healed man embodies both elements of the Commission—learning to live rightly and glorifying God publicly. Key Takeaways for Today • God still uses visible transformation to draw listeners to the gospel. • Christ’s promised presence empowers obedience to the Commission; we proclaim a living, active Savior. • Every act of God’s grace—physical or spiritual—should turn into praise that points others to Jesus. • Local faithfulness (our “Jerusalem”) is essential to global impact (“all nations”). Other Scriptures to Explore • Acts 4:14-20—ongoing witness despite opposition. • 2 Corinthians 5:17—new creation parallels the lame man’s new walk. • Psalm 40:3—“He put a new song in my mouth… many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD.” |
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