Topical Bible: John: The Apostle: Present With Peter in the Temple Courtyard

◄ John: The Apostle: Present With Peter in the Temple Courtyard ►

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John, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, is a prominent figure in the New Testament. Known for his close relationship with Jesus, John is often referred to as "the disciple whom Jesus loved" (John 13:23). His presence alongside Peter in the Temple courtyard is a significant event that highlights his role in the early Christian community and his boldness in proclaiming the Gospel.

Biblical Account

The account of John and Peter in the Temple courtyard is primarily found in the Book of Acts. After the ascension of Jesus, the apostles continued His work, empowered by the Holy Spirit. In Acts 3, Peter and John are depicted as going up to the Temple at the hour of prayer. It is here that they encounter a man lame from birth, who was being carried to the Temple gate called Beautiful to beg for alms.

Peter, with John by his side, addresses the man: "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!" (Acts 3:6). The man is miraculously healed, and he enters the Temple with them, walking, leaping, and praising God. This miracle draws the attention of the people, providing Peter and John the opportunity to preach about Jesus and His resurrection.

Confrontation with the Sanhedrin

The healing and subsequent preaching lead to the arrest of Peter and John by the Temple authorities, who were greatly disturbed by their teaching about the resurrection of the dead through Jesus. The next day, they are brought before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. When questioned about the power or name by which they performed the miracle, Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, boldly declares: "Rulers and elders of the people! If we are being examined today about a kind service to a man who was lame, to determine how he was healed, then let this be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed" (Acts 4:8-10).

The courage and eloquence of Peter and John astonish the members of the Sanhedrin, who recognize them as unschooled, ordinary men but also note that they had been with Jesus. Despite the council's threats, Peter and John refuse to stop speaking about what they have seen and heard, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to their mission.

Theological Significance

John's presence with Peter in the Temple courtyard underscores his integral role in the early Church. His actions and words, alongside Peter, reflect the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and the apostles' dedication to spreading the message of Jesus Christ. This event also illustrates the fulfillment of Jesus' promise that His followers would receive power when the Holy Spirit came upon them, enabling them to be His witnesses in Jerusalem and beyond (Acts 1:8).

John's partnership with Peter in this narrative highlights the unity and collaboration among the apostles as they faced opposition and persecution. Their boldness in the face of adversity serves as an enduring example of faith and conviction for believers throughout the ages.

Nave's Topical Index

Acts 3:1-11
Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour.
Nave's Topical Index

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... injunction [2951] of Christ to the Apostle not to ... circle, [3002] might witness, without
present danger to ... his disciples except Peter, James, and John, does not ...
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