Acts 9:32-43 • Many Believed

The purpose of miracles

Context:

Peter traveled teaching the scattered congregations.

32

We do not know the exact timeline.

3 year gap

Gal 1:16b-19...I did not immediately consult with anyone; nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me, but I went away into Arabia, and returned again to Damascus. Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas and remained with him fifteen days. But I saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord's brother.

As Peter was traveling he went to Lydda.

33-34

What was the purpose of the healing?

35

The purpose of the healing was so that people would turn to the Lord!

Awesome things were happening.

While Peter was in Lydda he was called to go to the town of Joppa.

Why would Peter get called away from such a wonderful ministry?

36-38

Why did they call for Peter?

What did they expect from Peter?

39

Peter walks into a very sad situation.

Widows were crying.

They are telling Peter about the wonderful things Dorcas did.

40-41

Peter presented Dorcas alive to the whole church.

Saints and widows

Of all the believers who died why did God raise up Dorcas?

He did not raise up Steven.

God does all things for a purpose.

Acts 9:42]]

God's purpose in both of these miraculous events was to draw people to Himself.

"...many believed in the Lord"

Now here was a place with many more new believers.

43

Application:

How do we apply verses like these to our lives?

Call to Action:

How is God speaking to you this morning?