“Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God. When all the people saw him walking and praising God, they recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.“
Acts 3:6-10

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SEPTEMBER 17, 2024

Miraculous healing for those who were suffering made up a significant part of Jesus’ ministry, and the apostles in the early church continued this work. Many of the Jews living in Jerusalem would have been familiar with Jesus’ ministry, as well as the events that occurred during Passover when Jesus was arrested, placed on trial, and condemned to death by Roman crucifixion. Many would also have heard the subsequent claim that Jesus had been resurrected from the dead.

Peter clearly attributes to Jesus the power to heal this man. He spoke the command to walk in the name of Jesus Christ, and then immediately grasped the man’s right hand and helped him to his feet. Peter seems to have no concerns whether his proclamation, “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk” would be fulfilled. Such signs and wonders sent a dramatic message: in the name Jesus, there is still power. Yes, even now after His death. Perhaps Jesus really is alive and present!

How is the power of Jesus evident today? Some of us may see miracles as vivid as this one, but for most of us, on most days, this power is manifested in our transforming lives and choices. We are not changed because of our latent capacity to be good people, but through the Spirit. Jesus’ Spirit implores spouses to forgive one another in light of their own forgiveness in Christ. He convicts a son or daughter to confesses risky behavior to a parent and turn away from wrongdoing. It is Spirit-motivated courage to speak for truth and justice in the workplace, even if we risk losing our jobs; and when asked to explain our unbending position, to acknowledge Jesus as Master who calls His followers to absolute integrity. It is the Spirit’s leading individuals and families to live dependently upon the Lord in the pastorate or mission field. It is discipline from the Spirit to spend time in the Bible daily, seeking a word from the Lord, and the Spirit’s empowering to apply it in obedience. It is the Spirit who directs the decision to not take offense when provoked by a difficult person, but to seek their good, even at our own expense.

The power of Jesus changes everything. We are not our own. Because of the power of Jesus, we are people of the Spirit. Our goal is not winning but loving service. Our pursuit is not recognition but contribution to others. Our hope is not health and wealth but walking in close fellowship with our Master and with our brothers and sisters. And one day we will find ourselves walking and jumping and praising God forever because of the power of the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.

Questions for reflection and discussion:

  • How is the power of Jesus transforming your life?
  • How is God using the faithfulness of your church community to transform your neighborhood or town?
  • How would you respond if called to give an account for refusing to compromise the truth or for walking out of a venue of inappropriate entertainment?
  • Does the Spirit speak to you as you look into the word of God, and if so, what is He saying?

 

Church Reading Plan: Ezekiel 20; Psalm 66-67