The miraculous healing of a cripple by the disciples of Jesus is a significant event recorded in the Acts of the Apostles, demonstrating the power and authority bestowed upon the apostles through the Holy Spirit. This miracle is a testament to the continuation of Jesus' ministry through His followers and serves as a powerful witness to the early church and the surrounding community.

Biblical Account

The account of the healing of the cripple is found in Acts 3:1-10. Peter and John, two of Jesus' closest disciples, were going up to the temple at the time of prayer, around the ninth hour. As they approached the temple gate called Beautiful, they encountered a man who had been lame from birth. This man was carried daily to the temple gate to beg for alms from those entering the temple courts.

When the crippled man saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. Peter, directed by the Holy Spirit, looked intently at the man and said, "Look at us!" The man gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them. However, Peter declared, "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).

Taking him by the right hand, Peter helped him up, and immediately the man's feet and ankles were strengthened. He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and leaping and praising God. All the people who saw him recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.

Theological Significance

This miracle is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it underscores the authority and power given to the apostles through the Holy Spirit. Jesus had promised His disciples that they would do greater works than He did because He was going to the Father (John 14:12). The healing of the crippled man is a fulfillment of this promise, demonstrating that the power of Jesus' name continued to work through His followers.

Secondly, the miracle serves as a powerful testimony to the early church and the surrounding community. The healing drew a crowd, providing Peter with the opportunity to preach the gospel and explain that the miracle was performed by faith in the name of Jesus (Acts 3:16). This event led to the conversion of many, as the number of believers grew to about five thousand (Acts 4:4).

Lastly, the miracle highlights the compassion and mercy of God. The healing of the crippled man is a vivid illustration of God's desire to restore and redeem, not only physically but spiritually. It points to the ultimate healing and restoration that comes through faith in Jesus Christ.

Historical Context

In the first-century Jewish context, physical ailments were often associated with sin or divine displeasure. The healing of the crippled man challenged these assumptions, demonstrating that God's grace and power were available to all, regardless of their physical condition or social status. The miracle also affirmed the apostles' role as leaders of the early church, equipped to carry on the mission of Jesus.

Conclusion

The healing of the cripple by Peter and John is a profound example of the miracles performed by the disciples of Jesus. It serves as a testament to the power of Jesus' name, the authority given to His followers, and the transformative impact of the gospel. This event continues to inspire believers to trust in the power of God to work miracles and to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ to all.Acts 14:10
Said with a loud voice, Stand upright on your feet. And he leaped and walked.
Nave's Topical Index

The City of God. Index of Subjects.
... we should worship God alone, [72]184; miracles wrought by ... the breathing of Christ
on His disciples, [225]259 ... Old, [950]423, etc.; words of Jesus respecting, [951 ...
/.../augustine/on christian doctrine in four books /the city of god index.htm

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