Walking, And Leaping, And Praising God

A certain lame man was “laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful” (v. 2b). When Peter and John were “about to go into the temple” (v. 3), he asked them for alms. But these two soulwinners knew that he needed Jesus more than money. In His name, they miraculously helped this man to “rise up and walk” (v. 6). The lame man was not only physically healed, but he was also brought out of his pitiful condition to have his feet spiritually set “upon a rock” (Ps 40:2), and begin a new life “in Christ” (2 Cor 5:17)! True Bible salvation always involves “repentance” (Acts 20:21), and a new walk “with Christ” (Gal 2:20).

This man was lame from birth (v. 2a), and he most likely started with some baby steps. It’s a wonderful picture of a new child of God (1 Pet 2:2); and how God wants them to start before they can walk in full stride with Him (Mic 6:8). Peter also helped this man to get up (v. 7). God wants to use mature believers to disciple new converts (Acts 20:35). After leading lost sinners to God’s saving grace (Acts 16:31), we can’t just leave them to be preyed upon by the false teaching wolves of this world (Mt 7:15).

They have been living lost all their lives, and they need our help and guidance! The man immediately entered the temple “walking, and leaping, and praising God.” New believers are always excited to enter the Lord’s house (Ps 122:1) – the place where they can receive the preaching, prayers, and loving support of fellow believers (Php 2:4). This is again another picture of an early zeal that becomes evident among new believers (Titus 2:4). But they still need to be guided in their spiritual growth (2 Cor 4:16), so they won’t stumble and fall (1 Jn 2:10). We can all rejoice and praise God when we continually show our love and care for them! God bless you!

- Pastor Melito Barrera