What is the meaning of Acts 3:16? By faith in the name of Jesus • Faith is not generic optimism; it is trust directed specifically to “the name of Jesus,” the Person and authority of the risen Lord (John 14:13; Romans 10:13). • Peter makes clear that nothing magical happened in himself or in the beggar—everything rests on confident reliance upon Christ’s power (Hebrews 11:1). this man whom you see and know • The healed beggar had been a familiar figure at the temple gate (Acts 3:2; cf. Acts 4:14). His long-known disability underscores that the miracle is genuine, public, and undeniable. • God often chooses “everyday people” as living proof of His work so observers cannot explain it away (John 9:8–11). has been made strong • The lame man’s shriveled legs were instantly strengthened (Acts 3:7–8), fulfilling prophecies such as Isaiah 35:6, “Then the lame will leap like a deer.” • Strength here is literal physical wholeness, but it also pictures the spiritual strengthening God provides to all who trust Him (Ephesians 3:16). It is Jesus’ name • The spotlight falls on Jesus alone. His exalted name carries divine authority (Philippians 2:9–11). • Peter later proclaims, “There is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). and the faith that comes through Him • Even the capacity to believe is a gracious gift the risen Christ imparts (Ephesians 2:8; Hebrews 12:2). • Faith does not originate in human effort; it “comes through” Jesus, who awakens hearts to trust Him (Galatians 2:16). has given him this complete healing in your presence • The miracle is “complete”—not partial, not temporary (Luke 5:24–26). • Performed “in your presence,” it serves as a public testimony meant to turn onlookers from mere amazement to repentance and faith in Christ (Acts 3:19; Acts 9:32–35). • The same Lord who forgives sins also “heals all your diseases” (Psalm 103:3), demonstrating His authority over body and soul. summary Acts 3:16 shows that the beggar’s transformation springs entirely from Jesus—His powerful name, His gracious gift of faith, and His sovereign will to heal. The crowd’s own eyes verify the miracle, compelling them to acknowledge that Jesus is alive, active, and the only source of salvation and wholeness for everyone who believes. |
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