Monday 20 April 2026

Psalm 113

Background
In the previous chapter of Acts, we learned that Peter and John, on their way into the Temple, were asked for alms by a lame beggar. Peter healed the beggar in the name of Jesus. It caused a sensation and a large crowd gathered. Peter took advantage of all the interest to preach about Jesus being the Messiah. The priests and Sadducees were so disturbed by what Peter was preaching and by the reaction of the crowd that they had Peter and John put into prison overnight.

Today we read how, brought before Jewish officials, Peter speaks out boldly, and very bravely given the circumstances. He maintains their innocence in performing a good deed and proclaims Jesus as the only source of salvation.

The statement in verse 12 that it is only through Jesus that one can be saved is a favourite theme in some sections of the Church. However, it would be hundreds of years before the message of Christianity became available to the general population in many countries across the world. Most of those who lived during those centuries would never hear of Jesus. Pope John Paul II, writing at the end of the 20th century, found a compromise position. For him, Christ is the only means of salvation, but seeds of God's word are present beyond Christianity. In his book Crossing the Threshold of Hope he points out "Christ came into the world for all these people. He redeemed them all and has His own ways of reaching them."

The healing of the lame beggar caused a sensation, grabbing the attention of the crowd and providing the apostles with an audience for their preaching. But Peter’s healing ministry extends beyond this one lame man. Later, in Acts 5:16, we learn that “Crowds gathered also from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing their sick and those tormented by impure spirits, and all of them were healed.” And in Acts 9 we read of Dorcas (also known as Tabitha) being raised from the dead by Peter. Healing was certainly seen by the Early Christians as a gift of the Spirit.

To Ponder:

• What does verse 12 in this passage mean to you?
• Have you experienced or witnessed faith healing? If healing is one of the gifts of the Spirit, how does fit in with modern medicine?
• Peter and John were able to attract audiences for their message through healing people. How can we make our message relevant to people’s lives?

Prayer
Loving God, so many people today need healing spiritually and physically. We ask your blessing on all those who are involved in medical provision and mental health services or in caring for the vulnerable. Give them the skills and supportive sensitivities they need. Amen.

Bible notes author: Philip Sudworth
Philip is a local preacher in the Wigan Circuit. Having retired from a career in the education service, he’s kept busy by voluntary work. He has had articles on faith published in seven countries. Grandchildren have given him renewed insights into awe and wonder, love and trust. Frequent questions remind him that anyone who thinks he has all the answers hasn’t yet found half the questions.