Signs and Wonders

The book of Acts is filled with miracles, which are signs of the lordship of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. Just as Jesus showed compassion and demonstrated his authority through casting out demons, healing, and raising the dead, so do the apostles. However, they are careful to make it clear that the power and authority is Jesus’, not their own (Acts 3:6,12,16; 4:10). Performing signs and wonders is a clear manifestation of the power of the Holy Spirit dwelling within them and is integral to the growth of the early church.

Read Acts 9:32-42 and then consider:

1. In Acts 5:12-16, Luke summarizes that signs and wonders were regularly done by the hands of the apostles. Here, he provides two specific examples. Both closely parallel miracles of Jesus (see Luke 5:17-26, the healing of a paralyzed man; and Luke 8:41-56, raising Jairus’ daughter from the dead). Why might Luke have chosen to describe these two in particular?
2. What are the similarities and differences between these two miracles? How does the repetition of ‘get up’ or ‘rise up’ reinforce the reality of Jesus’ resurrection?
3. People in Lydda, Sharon, and Joppa turn to the Lord after witnessing Aeneas’ and Tabitha’s restoration. (Acts 9:35, 42) How might this connection between signs and wonders and evangelism challenge us to rethink the way we do church and mission today?
4. How often do you pray for the sick to be healed in Jesus’ name? Ask God for an opportunity to do so.