The Church’s First Miracle

Acts chapter 3

The well-loved account of Peter and John healing the beggar who usually sat outside the gate of the Temple is the first recorded miracle associated with the Christian Church after they had been filled with the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost.

In a very real sense, this was an act of restoration, which is an anticipation of the restoration of the whole of creation that will occur when Jesus returns to this world.

Following this demonstration of he supreme power of Jesus Christ to heal, it is no wonder that the man who had been lame then entered the temple walking, leaping and praising God.

Peter and John are quick to deny that the miracle was accomplished through anything of their own strength or ability.  Instead of claiming any credit for themselves, they grasped the opportunity to preach the good news of salvation that is available to all through Jesus Christ.

As Peter stated, “It is the name of Jesus and the faith that comes through that name that has given this man complete healing.” (see Acts ch3 v17).

Restoration also includes Repentance, which means turning around from being sinful enemies of God to become one with those who are Born Again as followers of Jesus Christ.

All this is an illustration of the great work begun by Jesus Christ and now carried on by Him through the medium of His Church, recreating potential sons  and daughters of God from very unpromising human material.

This is also a miracle of refreshment that produces new life for a man who has spent many years imprisoned within his disability.

This truly is New Life that is freely offered to all those who are otherwise dead in transgressions and sins. (see Ephesians ch 2 v1)

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