Over the years, I have had the opportunity to engage with street beggars. Sometimes I have walked right by them. Other times, I have stopped and engaged them in a conversation about Christ. I’ve given them money, taken them to get something to eat, and even invited them to church. Once I brought a guy to Bible study and, unbeknownst to me, he had a beautiful voice and blessed us by singing a Christian song a cappella. However, nothing remotely compares to what Peter and John experienced in Acts 3.
Peter and John were on their way to afternoon prayer at the temple. At the same time, a beggar was placed at the temple gate called Beautiful. This seemed to have been his customary spot. All we know is that he was handicapped and begged. So he asked Peter and John for money.
One interesting observation of this passage is the visual interaction between the beggar and the apostles. First, the beggar “saw” Peter and John (v. 3). Then Peter and John “looked straight” at him (v. 4). Then Peter said, “Look at us!” (v. 4). So the man “gave them his attention.” The interaction moved from the beggar viewing the apostles as objects from which to gain money to individuals who truly wanted to interact with him.
God healed the beggar instantaneously through Peter. The man “jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God” (v. 8). As a result of this miracle, Peter was able to share the good news concerning Jesus Christ with those who knew that the man had been healed. Yes, the beggar was healed, but the healing wasn’t just for him. It was for the proclamation of the gospel to others.
Go Deeper
How do you respond to those in need? What can we learn from Peter and John’s example?
Pray with Us
God, what opportunities are You giving us to be a light for You? Make us accustomed to looking for them. Let us always be ready to share our faith.
Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.”Acts 3:6
