Acts 9:36-43 Tabitha Restored to Life

Fulfilling God’s plan for the church, Peter performed miraculous healing notably in Lydda, a town south east Joppa, along the Mediterranean sea coast.

Because miracles held a powerful viral aspect during an age when word of mouth was the main vehicle for information, God used the apostles to showcase His divine power throughout Judea and beyond.

“36 At Joppa there was a certain disciple named Tabitha, which is translated Dorcas. This woman was full of good works and charitable deeds which she did.” (Acts 9:36)

Joppa was the seaport of Jerusalem where a great deal of commerce took place. In the busy city, there lived a woman named Tabitha, which means “gazelle” in Hebrew. Tabitha was well known in Joppa for her good works.

“37 But it happened in those days that she became sick and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room.” (Acts 9:37)

After Tabitha became ill, then died, she was prepared for burial and laid to rest in a room on the second floor of a home, typically reserved for guests.

“38 And since Lydda was near Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent two men to him, imploring him not to delay in coming to them.” (Acts 9:38)

After he performed the miraculous healing in Lydda, Peter’s reputation became known throughout the region. The disciples hoped God would have mercy on Tabitha, and perhaps He would bring her back to life through the apostle via another miracle.

“39 Then Peter arose and went with them. When he had come, they brought him to the upper room. And all the widows stood by him weeping, showing the tunics and garments which Dorcas had made while she was with them.” (Acts 9:39)

When he heard about Tabitha’s death, Peter traveled from Lydda to Joppa, a short 10 mile trip. When he arrived at the house where she was laid to rest, the apostle encountered weeping widows, the object of Tabitha’s benevolence.

“40 But Peter put them all out, and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. 41 Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive.” (Acts 9:40-41)

Peter used prayer to call on God’s power when he performed healing. Although this was the first time the apostle attempted to overcome death, he only had to summon Tabitha to “arise” for life to be breathed into her by the mighty power of Yahweh. Upon her healing, Peter helped Tabitha up to her feet then presented her to those present, alive and well.

“42 And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord. 43 So it was that he stayed many days in Joppa with Simon, a tanner.” (Acts 9:42-43)

After this miracle, Peter remained in Joppa, staying with Simon, a tanner by trade. Through the healing hands of the apostles, God delivered the sick, and even the dead from the wages of sin, using miracles to grow the Lord’s church according to His perfect plan. Let’s pray!

Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Luke,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.

Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.

God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.

May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.

We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.

Praise God,
Amen!

This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: danielstpierre@thrivethroughchrist.com

Posted in Bible Studies.

Daniel St.Pierre

Daniel St.Pierre is a born again child of God. A Canadian immigrant to the United States, Daniel considers himself "blessed to be a blessing" as the ministry he leads continues to reach thousands of souls each month, on a global scale since 2003.