Two Miracles That Changed Lives (Acts 9:32-42)
In the book of Acts, we see the early church growing and the followers of Jesus spreading His message. One of the key leaders during this time was Peter. In Acts 9:32–42, we read about two amazing miracles Peter did as he traveled to encourage believers and share the good news of Jesus.
A Man Named Aeneas
Peter was visiting a town called Lydda when he met a man named Aeneas. This man had been paralyzed and bedridden for eight years. Imagine not being able to move for that long—his whole life had likely changed because of his illness.
Peter looked at him and said, “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and roll up your mat.” Immediately, Aeneas stood up and was healed! It was a powerful moment that showed that Jesus was still healing people through His followers. When the people in Lydda and nearby Sharon saw what happened, many of them turned to the Lord.
A Woman Named Tabitha
Next, Peter was called to a nearby town called Joppa. There, a well-loved woman named Tabitha (also called Dorcas) had died. She was known for doing many good deeds and helping the poor. When Peter arrived, the room was full of people crying and showing him the clothes she had made for them. She had touched many lives with her kindness.
Peter went into the room where her body was, knelt down, and prayed. Then he said, “Tabitha, get up.” And she opened her eyes and sat up—she came back to life! Peter helped her to her feet and called in the other believers. You can imagine the joy and amazement in that room.
This miracle spread quickly through the whole town, and many people believed in the Lord.
What Can We Learn from These Stories?
These two miracles remind us of a few important truths:
- Jesus still changes lives – Even though He had already gone back to heaven, Jesus was still working through Peter to bring healing and hope.
- God cares about both physical and emotional pain – Aeneas was healed physically, and Tabitha’s friends were comforted when she was brought back to life.
- Kindness and faithfulness matter – Tabitha’s life made a difference in her community, and her story shows how God honors a life of service.
God used Peter in powerful ways, but the focus wasn’t on Peter—it was always on Jesus. The miracles weren’t just exciting events; they led people to believe in the Lord and gave hope to those who needed it most.
Final Thought:
Whether it’s through healing, comfort, or everyday acts of kindness, God is still at work today. He can use anyone—just like He used Peter and Tabitha—to bring light and love into the world.
Acts 9:32-42 (WEB)
9:32 As Peter went throughout all those parts, he came down also to the saints who lived at Lydda. 33 There he found a certain man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden for eight years because he was paralyzed. 34 Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and make your bed!” Immediately he arose. 35 All who lived at Lydda and in Sharon saw him, and they turned to the Lord.36 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which when translated means Dorcas. This woman was full of good works and acts of mercy which she did. 37 In those days, she became sick and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. 38 As Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him, imploring him not to delay in coming to them. 39 Peter got up and went with them. When he had come, they brought him into the upper room. All the widows stood by him weeping, and showing the tunics and other garments which Dorcas had made while she was with them. 40 Peter sent them all out, and knelt down and prayed. Turning to the body, he said, “Tabitha, get up!” She opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter, she sat up. 41 He gave her his hand and raised her up. Calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 42 This became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. 43 He stayed many days in Joppa with a tanner named Simon.