Week #9 — The Meaning of the Miracle
In the world of filmmaking, it is scarce for a sequel (or any later films in a series) to be better than the original. The first film sets the scenes and develops the characters, building our connection to them and causing us to root for some and perhaps against others. The next installments aim to build on this foundation, but they borrow more than they bring. There are exceptions to this—I can think of a few—but those surprises serve to prove the point.
And it is this reason that our passage for today is such a joy to read. Peter and John have just presided over the miraculous healing of a man born lame. In an instant, on the authority of the name of Jesus Christ, the man now stands, walks, and even leaps around for joy. Could this get any better? Yes. In Acts 3:11-4:4, Peter now explains the miracle witnessed by all. He tells the crowd that something infinitely and eternally greater than physical healing is now available to them: eternal life founded in Christ for those who repent and believe in his name.
After reading the passage, work through the discussion questions together with your group. As you do, take note of how the Gospel combines the hardest of words with the greatest of news.
In Christ,
Pastor Ken
Week #9 — Questions
- Right away, Peter points the gathering crowd away from himself and directly to Jesus (3:12–13). How should we handle praise or attention when God works through us?
- Peter insists it was not their own “power or piety” that healed the man (3:12). What dangers exist when we credit ministry success to human ability instead of God’s power? Do you think that is a risk in our church?
- Sometimes it can be easy to ascribe blessings or struggles to a person’s level of spiritual power or personal piety. What examples can you think of from across Scripture that help us to know that isn’t how God works?
- Peter roots his explanation in Israel’s story (3:13). How does connecting the Gospel to God’s covenant faithfulness strengthen the message, especially for Peter’s audience?
- Peter ascribes many weighty titles to Jesus: Servant of God, The Holy and Righteous One, Author of Life, Christ, and (ultimate) Prophet. What does each reveal about who Jesus is and how he fulfills God’s plan? Which one surprises or amazes you the most, and why?
- Peter pulls no punches. He tells the crowd that they denied Jesus, killed him, acted in ignorance, and are wicked. What should we learn from his naming and starting with sin? How is this approach courageous? How is it compassionate?
- Look again at Peter’s call to action for the crowd (3:19-20). How does this show both the seriousness of sin and the breadth of God’s mercy? What does genuine repentance look like in your life?
- Peter promises “times of refreshing” from the Lord (3:20–21). What does that mean for believers today? Where have you experienced God’s refreshing grace after repentance?
- Repentance is both a turning from wickedness and sin (3:26) and a turning to Christ. What is God calling you to turn from right now? What would it look like for you to turn toward Jesus more than you already are?
- Despite resistance, “many of those who heard the word believed” (4:4). What does this teach us about God’s power to work through the preaching of his Word, even when circumstances seem hostile or discouraging? How and where do you see this happening today?