What is the meaning of Acts 5:15? As a result, Acts 5:12-14 records “many signs and wonders” done “at the hands of the apostles,” with new believers added “multitudes of both men and women.” Because those miracles were unmistakable, a ripple effect followed—“as a result” the whole city responded. The phrase ties verse 15 directly to God’s ongoing display of power (Acts 4:30; Mark 16:20). The gospel’s advance produces visible change; salvation and healing walk hand-in-hand, confirming that Jesus is alive and working through His people (Hebrews 2:3-4). people brought the sick into the streets The populace didn’t wait for an official meeting; they carried their needy friends right into public view. Faith moved them to action, reminiscent of the four men lowering their paralytic friend through a roof to reach Jesus (Mark 2:3-5). The “streets” reveal openness—God’s compassion isn’t confined to temple courts. Just as crowds once spread along village roads to meet Jesus (Mark 6:56), now they assemble for His apostle. The same Lord who healed then still heals now (James 5:14-15). and laid them on cots and mats, “Cots” suggests the more affluent could afford lightweight beds; “mats” belonged to the poor. Luke, the physician-historian, notes both, underscoring Christ’s impartial grace (Acts 10:34). Whether paralytics (Acts 9:33) or any other ailment, all found a place. Physical weakness turned into an opportunity for God’s strength (2 Corinthians 12:9). so that at least Peter’s shadow might fall on some of them This detail shows expectancy. They weren’t trusting a superstition; they trusted the Lord who worked through His servant. Earlier, Peter had lifted a lame man “in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth” (Acts 3:6-8). Later, handkerchiefs from Paul would carry healing power (Acts 19:11-12). God sometimes uses unconventional conduits—Elisha’s bones (2 Kings 13:21), a woman touching Jesus’ cloak (Luke 8:43-48)—so that all credit returns to Him. The shadow points to God’s presence, echoing Psalm 91:1, where those who dwell “in the shadow of the Almighty” find refuge. as he passed by. Peter wasn’t setting up a healing booth; he was simply “passing by,” living out daily ministry. God’s power accompanied normal obedience (Acts 9:32-35). The verb implies continual movement—the gospel advances, and grace overflows wherever God’s servants go (Romans 15:18-19). What mattered was not Peter’s schedule but God’s sovereign initiative. summary Acts 5:15 records an overflow of faith sparked by undeniable miracles. Crowds placed the sick in city streets, rich and poor alike, longing for even Peter’s shadow to brush them. The scene showcases: • the unstoppable impact of Christ’s risen power working through the apostles, • a community’s confident faith that God heals, • God’s readiness to meet human need beyond conventional settings, and • the confirmation that the same Jesus who showed compassion in the Gospels continues His ministry through His church. The verse invites believers today to expectant faith, active compassion, and confidence that God’s saving and healing work is still alive wherever His people walk. |
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