Peter's Ministry in Lydda and Joppa

Acts 9:32–35 (NASB95) 

32Now as Peter was traveling through all those regions, he came down also to the saints who lived at Lydda. 33There he found a man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden eight years, for he was paralyzed. 34Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you; get up and make your bed.” Immediately he got up. 35And all who lived at Lydda and Sharon saw him, and they turned to the Lord. 

Peter's ministry demonstrates how God works powerfully through His servants. When Peter encountered Aeneas, who had been paralyzed for eight years, he declared, “Jesus Christ heals you.” Remember the point we have made a few times now – it’s not our ministry but Christ’s that we are continuing. We see this point reiterated in these verses. 

The healing of Aeneas resulted in widespread conversion in Lydda and Sharon. This illustrates how God’s work through one individual can impact an entire community. When people witness Christ’s power in action, their hearts are transformed, and their lives are changed. Remember another point we made – love is a verb; it’s something we do. Whenever we reflect Christ to the world, powerful things happen.  

Peter’s ministry in Lydda and Joppa was not only compassionate but also strategic. These miracles paved the way for broader outreach, including Peter’s later ministry to Gentiles, especially in Caesarea. This illustrates how God’s work often unfolds step by step, preparing the way for a greater impact. 

Let’s approach our ministry with confidence, knowing that we serve the same Lord who worked through Peter. Remember that healing and transformation come from Christ, not from our own abilities. Just as Peter continued Jesus’ ministry, we are called to be Christ’s hands and feet today. Let’s focus on our community's spiritual and practical needs. 

Blessings, 

Ryan Goodnight