Why did the disciples urgently send for Peter in Acts 9:38? The Setting in Joppa Acts 9:38 — “Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples heard that Peter was there and sent two men to implore him, ‘Come to us without delay.’” • Tabitha (Dorcas), a beloved disciple “abounding with deeds of kindness and charity,” had just died (v. 36–37). • Instead of proceeding with the customary swift burial, the believers washed her body and placed it in an upstairs room—clearly hoping for divine intervention. Why Send for Peter—and Why So Quickly? • Immediate crisis – Jewish custom called for burial the same day (Deuteronomy 21:23). – By delaying interment, the disciples signaled faith that God might restore Tabitha’s life. • Recent demonstration of power – Only a few miles away in Lydda, Peter had just healed Aeneas after eight years of paralysis (Acts 9:32–35). – News of that miracle spread rapidly; if God could heal a paralytic through Peter, He could also raise the dead. • Apostolic authority and precedent – Jesus had empowered the apostles to “heal the sick, raise the dead” (Matthew 10:8). – Peter’s ministry already included notable healings (Acts 3:6–8; 5:15–16). – The church instinctively turned to an apostle when facing an impossible need (cf. James 5:14). • Spiritual leadership and comfort – Peter’s presence would steady grieving believers, offer pastoral guidance, and unify the church in prayer. • Evangelistic opportunity – A resurrection would testify powerfully to the surrounding community (Acts 9:42: “many believed in the Lord”). What Made Peter the Obvious Choice? • Proximity: Lydda was only 10–12 miles from Joppa—reachable within hours on foot. • Reputation: God’s hand on Peter was widely recognized (Acts 5:12). • Role: As a leading apostle, Peter served as a visible channel of Christ’s authority (Acts 2:14; Galatians 2:8). Results God Brought Through Peter • Peter arrived, prayed, and said, “Tabitha, get up!”—and she opened her eyes (Acts 9:40). • The miracle spurred evangelism: “This became known all over Joppa, and many believed in the Lord” (v. 42). • The church was strengthened, and Peter stayed in Joppa “many days,” further teaching and discipling (v. 43). Key Takeaways for Today • God responds when His people exercise bold, unified faith. • Spiritual leadership matters; God often works through those He has set apart and gifted. • Miracles serve both to meet urgent needs and to draw outsiders to Christ. • No situation is beyond the Lord’s power—He remains “able to do exceedingly abundantly beyond all that we ask or think” (Ephesians 3:20). |
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