June 2, 2025 • 25 mins
What happens when a beggar is healed and a crowd witnesses the undeniable power of God? Find out in this miraculous moment!
In this episode of The Jesus Podcast, Peter and John walk a healed beggar into the temple, where the miracle sparks awe and a message of repentance and renewal. Peter preaches boldly, calling the crowds to turn to God and experience refreshing through the power of Jesus Christ.
Today's Bible verse is Acts 3:19, from the King James Version.
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Repent therefore and turn again, that your sins may be
blotted out, so that there may come times of refreshing
from the presence of the Lord. Acts three nineteen. Lord Jesus,
we are grateful for the cleansing of our past sins
and the new life you offer us. Give us the
(00:21):
strength and courage to turn away from our past and
embrace the future you have prepared for us. Help us
to live in the freedom of your forgiveness, leaving behind
old habits and walking boldly in your light. May our
hearts remain steadfast in following you, trusting in your guidance,
(00:44):
and embracing the refreshing renewal you bring. Then your precious name,
we pray Amen. Thank you for praying with me to day.
You are listening to the Jesus Podcast dramatic stories inspired
by the Bible. Remain here for another story from our
mini series on the birth of the Church. Has this
(01:06):
podcast inspired you, We would love it if you'd left
a rating and review and shared with a friend. Despite
the buzzing of worshippers passing through the temple gates, Ira
paid Peter and John his full attention. These men had
changed his life in an instant and hadn't asked anything
(01:28):
in return. Ira was sure he had never met them
and had no wealth or power for them to abuse.
He couldn't piece together the reason for them showing him
the greatest act of kindness he had ever known. But
if they were really empowered men of God, as Era
believed them to be, maybe that was all the motivation
(01:51):
they needed to help a poor beggar like himself.
Speaker 2 (01:56):
Please allow me to come with you to the temple
to worship. The name of the Lord must be glorified
for his goodness, who he would be happy to have you.
Our friends should be just inside the walls. Gather your
belongings and we'll hid in together.
Speaker 1 (02:12):
Irah fumbled for his possessions, though he knew none of
them were necessary any more. Those had been the tools
of a man who had lost any hope of leading
a normal life, the means necessary to simply scrape by
for survival. But his homely mat and blemish bowl were
now the mere reminders of a past that Irah was
(02:35):
quickly leaving behind with radical speed, only made possible by
the unstoppable force of the spirit of God. But even
his numerous years of making the most of his situation
couldn't have prepared him for the miracle he experienced that day.
He had no plans for the future, nor ever intended
(02:58):
to allowing himself to day dream in such a way
had become more depressing than anything else. For all of
his hope in God, he never allowed himself the privilege
of imagining the immense freedom he now had. While others
took the simple act of walking for granted to iirah
(03:21):
walking open the grand expanse of the world to be
explored at his own will. He haphazardly rolled up his
cushion and bawled it into his mat. He stared at
the bundle. His old life sat before him with the
same stillness that once found him. He clapped his hands together.
Speaker 2 (03:43):
I suppose that's it. Shall we go in?
Speaker 3 (03:48):
Miracles are opportunities when God opens people's eyes and grabs
their attention. We have to be swift to seize the moment.
Welcome to the Jesus Podcast. I'm Zach, your host from
pray dot Com. Here to dive into another story inspired
by the Book of Acts. If you've been enjoying this podcast,
you know what to do. Make sure to follow on
(04:09):
whatever platform you listen, and it would be awesome if
you rated us and left a review as well. Today
we're stepping into the sandals of Peter as he delivers
another show stopping sermon. This episode is inspired by Acts
three ten through twenty six, and let me tell you,
Peter knows how to captivate a crowd. Fresh off the
miraculous healing of a lame man at the gate, Beautiful,
(04:31):
Peter doesn't miss a beat. He uses the opportunity to
preach the gospel. The man is clinging to Peter and John,
probably out of sheer gratitude, amazement, and maybe a mixture
of wow that just happened and please don't leave me.
The crowd is buzzing, jaws are dropping, and what does
Peter do? He seizes the moment for a sermon, because
(04:52):
why not.
Speaker 1 (04:55):
The trio strode into the temple courts. IRA's eyes arted
all around, keenly taking in the sights as though it
was for the first time. He found the thought a
little silly, but the few feet and the difference he
observed the world with now gave a new perspective on
everything around him. Seas of people that used to roll
(05:19):
over him like waves were suddenly gentle tides to casually
wade through stairs seemed like ant hills compared to the
mountainous terrain they once were. Whatever power had given strength
to his legs had not only changed his physical abilities,
but was changing his entire outlook on life. As they
(05:41):
walked through the courtyard, puzzled stairs were visible all around.
Several men and women pointed in irish direction, frantically whispering
to one another. It was a new experience for the
once lame beggar, who had become accustomed to others simply
ignoring him after he had sunken in to the margins
of society. But Peter and John were all too familiar
(06:05):
with the notoriety stirred up after a miracle had been performed.
A Few of those who had been startled to see
IRA's sudden regaining of faculties approach the three men.
Speaker 2 (06:16):
Aren't you the bigger from the gates, the one who's
been here for years?
Speaker 4 (06:21):
I know it's him. I live just down the road
and I see him every day when I.
Speaker 2 (06:25):
Passed the temple mount How did this happen? Tell us?
What is your secret?
Speaker 4 (06:31):
Was these men here?
Speaker 2 (06:32):
Sirs?
Speaker 4 (06:33):
Did you heal the lame beggar.
Speaker 1 (06:35):
Ira gave a polite but awkward wave as more curious
onlookers came to investigate. He hadn't considered how others would
react to his miraculous healing. If he had been honest
with himself, he'd assumed most wouldn't care, let alone notice.
He wondered if the newfound strength in his legs was
(06:55):
worth being the center of attention For him, attention had
never meant anything but trouble. But Peter and John knew
the people weren't coming to make a mockery of Irah
or cause him any harm. They were coming in wonder
and awe at what they were witnessing. Peter tilted his
head toward Irah.
Speaker 2 (07:17):
Just take calm and follow our leader. We've done this before.
Speaker 1 (07:21):
Ira took a step behind the apostles and subconsciously gripped
their garments with his fingertips to feel some sense of security.
Peter looked at John to see if he was thinking
the same thing. John gestured forward and bowed his head,
giving Peter the cue to step up to the plate.
Speaker 2 (07:39):
Fellow Israelites, why are you so surprised at what you
see here? Today? You stare at us, as though it
was our own power or godliness that allowed us to
make this man walk. But it was not for our
sake that this man was healed. No, the God of Abraham,
Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified
(08:01):
his servant Jesus through this sign. The same Jesus was
the man you handed over to be killed. You disowned
him from his own people before Pilate, even when the
governor had decided in his own heart to let him go.
Speaker 1 (08:16):
Peter could tell that his words were cutting his audience
to the heart, just as he had seen the people's
response to the accusation of murdering Jesus on Pentecost. He
knew that the bad news would soon make way for
the good news of jesus gospel.
Speaker 2 (08:33):
But even worse, you disowned the Holy and Righteous One
and asked a murderer be released to you to join
your ranks. By your own hands, you killed the author
of life. But as the author of life, even the
grave could not hold him, for God raised him from
(08:54):
the dead. And we stand here today as witnesses of
this for your sake.
Speaker 1 (09:00):
Fist clenched tighter at the tunics of the apostles. He
was worried that his miracle worker was only making matters
worse by accusing the people of putting Jesus to death. Peter,
on the other hand, had been consumed with a peace
beyond his understanding. Peter could feel IRA's grip on the
side of his clothes. He placed his hand on Iris,
(09:23):
hoping that he could extend an ounce of peace to
his new acquaintance.
Speaker 2 (09:27):
By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom
you see and no was made strong. It is Jesus's
name and the faith that comes through him that has
completely healed him, as you can all see.
Speaker 4 (09:41):
So this man was healed by this Jesus. Yet you
say we killed him. I can't speak for the crowds here,
but I've never so much as struck my neighbor.
Speaker 2 (09:51):
Please take no offense at my words. I know that
you all acted in ignorance, just as the leaders of
our people did. But we now know that it was
God who allowed it, so that he could fulfill all
that he had forecalled through the prophets, that his Messiah
would suffer for the sake of the people.
Speaker 1 (10:11):
Ira was stunned that the man made no rebuttal against
the apostle statement. In fact, nobody did. It was as
though they had been enlightened and accepted Peter's accusation as true.
IRA's suspicions were quickly confirmed.
Speaker 4 (10:29):
Surely, there must be something we can do to make
it right. I would never intentionally dishonor the Lord, our God.
Is there nothing we can do to earn his forgiveness?
Speaker 1 (10:39):
Out of the corner of his eye, Peter could see
John beaming a smile, and twas the moment both of
them had been waiting for, Like clockwork, the gospel message
of their master had broken the people's hearts wide open,
and the spirit was now planting seeds in the freshly
cultivated soil. For all of their sowing and watering, it
(11:03):
was God who gave the increase.
Speaker 2 (11:05):
Repent of your sins. Turn to God and receive his
forgiveness Through the blood of Jesus. He will wipe out
your sins. Be of good cheer, brothers and sisters, For
in due time the Lord will send him Messiah, Jesus
Christ to you, and in that time you will experience
(11:26):
times of refreshing from him. But as for now, heaven
must receive him until the time comes for God to
restore everything, just as he promised long ago through his
holy prophets.
Speaker 1 (11:39):
The crowd was dead, silent, holding their collective breath, determined
to not mess a word of the bold preacher standing
before them. Peter felt like he was watching the scene
from outside his own body. As a boy, he had
memorized the stories of Israel's greats like Abraham, Jacob, Moses,
(12:00):
and David to picture himself a measly fisherman. One day,
moving crowds to repent was beyond his wildest dreams. But
for all his aspirations, it was Jesus who had brought
him thus far, and it was Jesus who would sustain him.
So long as it was the Lord's name he lifted
(12:22):
high before the people, Peter was confident God would continue
to use him.
Speaker 2 (12:27):
For Moses said, the Lord, your God will raise up
for you a prophet like me from among your own people.
You must listen to everything he tells you. Any One
who does not listen to him will be completely cut
off from their people. Indeed, beginning with Samuel, all the
prophets who have spoken have foretold these days. And you
(12:49):
are heirs of the prophets, and of the covenant cot
made with your fathers, he said to Abraham, through your offspring,
all peoples on earth will be blessed.
Speaker 1 (13:01):
Peter's call to repentance had worked. Dozens of men and
women who filled the courtyards had fallen to their knees
in deep conviction. They shuffled towards the feet of the Apostles.
They had been inspired by IRA's miraculous healing, but it
was only the transformative power of the gospel that had
(13:21):
allured their hearts to a saving faith in the Lord Jesus.
Peter and John did their best to control the crowds
while keeping an eye on Ira, who was still dumbfounded
at the unexpected gathering. The Apostles spent the next few
hours answering the people's questions. They told them about the
multitudes of other believers gathering regularly throughout Jerusalem, that they
(13:45):
could now join on this new road of following the
ways of Jesus. The dimming sunlight alerted the people of
nightfall swift approach, but nobody dared to depart from the gathering.
What they were learning was of greater importance than a
timely arrival to their homes. A woman was pressing through
(14:05):
the streams of people in the opposite direction. She was
doubled over and scanning the ground, calling out as she
made her way through the courtyard.
Speaker 4 (14:15):
Ira, Ira, where have they taken him?
Speaker 2 (14:19):
Oh?
Speaker 4 (14:19):
I knew I had a bad feeling about to day.
I should have never left him alone.
Speaker 1 (14:24):
IRA's head perked up at the sound. He spun his
head around like an owl as he laughed back in.
Speaker 2 (14:30):
Response, Turtza, is that you I'm over here.
Speaker 1 (14:35):
Ira stretched his body as tall as he could and
waved his arm sporadically over his head. His face broke
out in a wide grin at this accomplishment. Turtzu's face
contorted in disbelief at the sight. She gasped and seeing
her beloved friend not only well, but standing on his
(14:56):
own two feet. She had hoped to find Ira in
good health, but never expected to find him like this.
Speaker 2 (15:04):
What how you can thank my new friends here for that,
or rather you can thank their friend Jesus. But please
allow me to introduce you Peter and John.
Speaker 1 (15:18):
With a wave of his hand, the two men stepped
around Ira. Turtsa could find no words. For years, she
had painstakingly carried Ira to the temple gates out of
a devotion to care for her friend. If these men
had truly healed Ira, she considered them to be friends
(15:39):
of hers now too. She scanned Peter and John up
and down. From her observations, there was nothing remarkable or
any apparent stand out qualities about them, but through some
force she had yet to discover, they had indeed healed Irah.
(15:59):
His cheery bouncing beside the apostles made that unassailable. Peter
and John could read Turtz's astonishment like an open book.
They had seen the same look many times before, and
Jesus miracles, and now they would follow in his footsteps.
Speaker 2 (16:17):
Shaloon, it appears we are connected through our newly upright
friend here. My name is Peter, this is John. We
are followers of Jesus. It was through faith and by
his name that iron now stands. But I believe we've
caused enough of a commotion for you both today. Please
(16:39):
go and rest and sin no more.
Speaker 1 (16:43):
Turtsu gave a sudden and vibrant laugh.
Speaker 4 (16:46):
You want us to just go after all of this?
Speaker 2 (16:50):
Absolutely, you both have a lot of life to catch
up on. Plus the people here still have need for us.
Speaker 4 (16:57):
If you ever need anything, please let us know. We
are forever in your debt.
Speaker 2 (17:03):
You are in debt to no one. Now go in
the freedom of Jesus Christ.
Speaker 1 (17:09):
She smiled affectionately at Peter, then turned to Ira with
tears forming in her eyes. She was still trying to
reconcile this new reality in her mind. Ira clicked his
heels and promptly bent over to secure his mat to
his back. He gestured to the group and bound off
out of the temple courts. Tertza hesitated. This was the
(17:33):
first time in ages she would be leaving the temple
without a stretcher over her shoulder. She took a step forward,
then another. There was an unfamiliar air of lightness to
her steps, as though God himself had lifted her weariness
and propelled her forward. The walk back to her house
(17:55):
was therapeutic. Like Ira, viewing life free of her previous
burdens had given her a whole new perspective of the city.
No longer did she avoid the more unkempt roads or
laborious hills of the city. In fact, both she and
Ira gladly welcomed them, exercising the extent of their strength
(18:18):
without the burdens of their former life. The spirit of
Jesus Christ was sweeping through Jerusalem like wildfire, leaving nothing
in his path unchanged. But this change wasn't solely related
to circumstances or situations. He was breaking chains, renewing minds,
(18:41):
and transforming hearts to the praise of God's glorious grace.
Speaker 3 (18:52):
Peter starts off by asking a simple question, why do
you marvel at this or why do you look so
intently at us as though our own power or godliness
has made this man walk? Now? I love this because
Peter is essentially saying, why are you looking at us
as if we're some kind of spiritual superheroes. Why are
you staring at us as if it was our power
(19:12):
that made this man well? Peter is quick to redirect
the crowd's focus from himself and John back to Jesus
and my friends. This is so crucial for our faith
as well. When people praise us for our kindness, or
for our gentleness, or for some act of charity that
we perform for somebody else, we have to always and
faithfully redirect people's attention to the source of that good work. Jesus,
(19:38):
Peter knows a few things that many of us tend
to forget if First of all, it's not about you
at all, It's about Jesus and Jesus alone. Second, miracles,
as amazing as they are, are not the main event
in and of themselves. They're not the finish line. They're
actually the starting gun. Miracles grab people's attention, but it's
the message of the Gospel that saves souls. Here could
(20:00):
have easily basted in the glow of this miraculous moment,
he would sign a book deal, launch his new podcasts
in the series called Miracle Workers, and then take them
the show on the road. Instead, he turns the crowd's
amazement into an opportunity to preach about Jesus. Always be
wary of people who gain popularity and notoriety for their
miracles and build a brand centered around them. Peter and
(20:24):
John's response to people's praise tells us something about Jesus's
will and intention. Or when we perform miracles, when something
amazing happens through us, we must redirect people's attention to
the one who actually accomplished this work, the Holy Spirit.
Peter goes on to remind them that this wasn't some
random act of power. Either it was the work of
(20:46):
the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. He's speaking these
Jews language, connecting Jesus to the very foundations of their faith.
And then Peter goes for the jugular. He makes this statement,
you delivered up and denied the Holy and just One,
and you asked for the murder of God Pouch. Peter
isn't holding back here at all. He reminded them that
(21:08):
they chose barabbas a criminal over Jesus, the Prince of life.
He's saying that the one who performed this miracle and
the one who restored this man is the same one
who wants to restore your souls. But by no means
trick yourselves into thinking that you're in good standing with him.
In fact, you were his enemy. You're the one who
put him to death. This is actually a truth bomb
(21:30):
that we all need to ingest ourselves. As hard as
it might be, we were enemies of God until we
chose to follow him, And there's no inherent identity that
we're automatically in good standing with God. We need a
call upon the name of Jesus. Peter is putting it
out there. You got it wrong, guys, you got it
wrong big time. But before you think Peter is just
(21:50):
up there to shame them, understand that he's not interested
in condemnation, but in conviction. He's saying, look in the mirror,
you messed up, but there's still hope. Peter clarifies how
the lame man was healed. He said that by Jesus'
name and through faith in his name, this man was
made strong. It wasn't Peter's charisma or John's piety, It
(22:11):
was the powerful name of Jesus. In Biblical terms, a
name wasn't just a label. It represented the very essence
and authority of a person. So when Peter says faith
in his name, he's talking about a faith that taps
into the very power, presence, and identity of Jesus himself.
So let's pause for a second here. What are we
(22:32):
putting our faith in today? Whose name are we living for?
Is it our own? Is it a celebrity or a
politician that we follow? Is it our good intentions, our
hard work, or our reputation. Is it our well thought
out plans or careers our bosses? Is it a brand
that we follow? Friends, let me tell you none of
these things can make the lame walk or the blind see.
(22:54):
We need to have faith squarely in the name of Jesus,
because only he has the power to transform lives. Peter,
after dropping this very heavy truth, doesn't leave them in despair, though.
Instead he gives them a path forward. He says, repent
therefore and be converted, and your sins may be plotted
out so that the times of refreshing may come in
(23:15):
the presence of the Lord. Let's talk about repentance really quick,
because a lot of people mistake repentance for apologizing. You
see apologizing as saying sorry and acknowledging you did something wrong.
Repentance isn't just acknowledging you did something wrong or feeling sorry.
It's a turnaround. It's like making a U turn when
you realize you're headed in the wrong direction. But here's
(23:36):
the good news. Even though repentance is hard, and changing
our ways is hard, and acknowledging the power of Jesus
is hard, it leads to ultimate refreshment. Isn't that what
we all need? And a world full of chaos, stress
and bad news, we need times of refreshing and these
times come from the presence of the Lord. From Netflix,
Binge's social media likes, or a perfect vacation. Peter reminds
(23:58):
them of Moses's prophecy, the Lord your God will raise
up for you a prophet like me from your brethren, Hmn,
you shall hear in all things. The crowd knew this
prophecy well. They knew that Moses was speaking of an
ultimate redeemer in Messiah. And Peter is making it clear,
Jesus is that prophet that Moses spoke of, and rejecting
him isn't just a bad decision. It's a disastrous one
(24:19):
for your soul. Peter says it plainly. Every soul who
will not hear the prophet shall be utterly destroyed. But
he doesn't end with a threat. He points back to
the promise given to Abraham in your Seed, all the
families of the earth shall be blessed. Peter is saying,
this promise is for you, but it's also to anyone
who will receive it, of any nation. So here's the takeaway. Friends,
(24:43):
don't just marvel at a simple miracle cling to the Messiah.
The healed man at the Gate Beautiful wanted change, but
he got transformation. The crowd wanted a spectacle, but they
got a sermon and you. You may come looking for
a little inspiration today, but God wants to offer you
so much more. He wants to offer you a new
life in Jesus. So repent, turn around, and let the
(25:05):
times of refreshing come. Because when you put your faith
in his name, Jesus's name, miracles don't just happen. They
transform your outlook on life and they transform who you
are from the inside out. Thanks again for listening to
the Jesus Podcast. Join us tomorrow for another breathtaking story
inspired by the Book of Acts, where we learn that
Jesus moves and breathes in us and through us today
Repent therefore and turn again, that your sins may be
blotted out, so that there may come times of refreshing
from the presence of the Lord. Acts three nineteen. Lord Jesus,
we are grateful for the cleansing of our past sins
and the new life you offer us. Give us the
(00:21):
strength and courage to turn away from our past and
embrace the future you have prepared for us. Help us
to live in the freedom of your forgiveness, leaving behind
old habits and walking boldly in your light. May our
hearts remain steadfast in following you, trusting in your guidance,
(00:44):
and embracing the refreshing renewal you bring. Then your precious name,
we pray Amen. Thank you for praying with me to day.
You are listening to the Jesus Podcast dramatic stories inspired
by the Bible. Remain here for another story from our
mini series on the birth of the Church. Has this
(01:06):
podcast inspired you, We would love it if you'd left
a rating and review and shared with a friend. Despite
the buzzing of worshippers passing through the temple gates, Ira
paid Peter and John his full attention. These men had
changed his life in an instant and hadn't asked anything
(01:28):
in return. Ira was sure he had never met them
and had no wealth or power for them to abuse.
He couldn't piece together the reason for them showing him
the greatest act of kindness he had ever known. But
if they were really empowered men of God, as Era
believed them to be, maybe that was all the motivation
(01:51):
they needed to help a poor beggar like himself.
Speaker 2 (01:56):
Please allow me to come with you to the temple
to worship. The name of the Lord must be glorified
for his goodness, who he would be happy to have you.
Our friends should be just inside the walls. Gather your
belongings and we'll hid in together.
Speaker 1 (02:12):
Irah fumbled for his possessions, though he knew none of
them were necessary any more. Those had been the tools
of a man who had lost any hope of leading
a normal life, the means necessary to simply scrape by
for survival. But his homely mat and blemish bowl were
now the mere reminders of a past that Irah was
(02:35):
quickly leaving behind with radical speed, only made possible by
the unstoppable force of the spirit of God. But even
his numerous years of making the most of his situation
couldn't have prepared him for the miracle he experienced that day.
He had no plans for the future, nor ever intended
(02:58):
to allowing himself to day dream in such a way
had become more depressing than anything else. For all of
his hope in God, he never allowed himself the privilege
of imagining the immense freedom he now had. While others
took the simple act of walking for granted to iirah
(03:21):
walking open the grand expanse of the world to be
explored at his own will. He haphazardly rolled up his
cushion and bawled it into his mat. He stared at
the bundle. His old life sat before him with the
same stillness that once found him. He clapped his hands together.
Speaker 2 (03:43):
I suppose that's it. Shall we go in?
Speaker 3 (03:48):
Miracles are opportunities when God opens people's eyes and grabs
their attention. We have to be swift to seize the moment.
Welcome to the Jesus Podcast. I'm Zach, your host from
pray dot Com. Here to dive into another story inspired
by the Book of Acts. If you've been enjoying this podcast,
you know what to do. Make sure to follow on
(04:09):
whatever platform you listen, and it would be awesome if
you rated us and left a review as well. Today
we're stepping into the sandals of Peter as he delivers
another show stopping sermon. This episode is inspired by Acts
three ten through twenty six, and let me tell you,
Peter knows how to captivate a crowd. Fresh off the
miraculous healing of a lame man at the gate, Beautiful,
(04:31):
Peter doesn't miss a beat. He uses the opportunity to
preach the gospel. The man is clinging to Peter and John,
probably out of sheer gratitude, amazement, and maybe a mixture
of wow that just happened and please don't leave me.
The crowd is buzzing, jaws are dropping, and what does
Peter do? He seizes the moment for a sermon, because
(04:52):
why not.
Speaker 1 (04:55):
The trio strode into the temple courts. IRA's eyes arted
all around, keenly taking in the sights as though it
was for the first time. He found the thought a
little silly, but the few feet and the difference he
observed the world with now gave a new perspective on
everything around him. Seas of people that used to roll
(05:19):
over him like waves were suddenly gentle tides to casually
wade through stairs seemed like ant hills compared to the
mountainous terrain they once were. Whatever power had given strength
to his legs had not only changed his physical abilities,
but was changing his entire outlook on life. As they
(05:41):
walked through the courtyard, puzzled stairs were visible all around.
Several men and women pointed in irish direction, frantically whispering
to one another. It was a new experience for the
once lame beggar, who had become accustomed to others simply
ignoring him after he had sunken in to the margins
of society. But Peter and John were all too familiar
(06:05):
with the notoriety stirred up after a miracle had been performed.
A Few of those who had been startled to see
IRA's sudden regaining of faculties approach the three men.
Speaker 2 (06:16):
Aren't you the bigger from the gates, the one who's
been here for years?
Speaker 4 (06:21):
I know it's him. I live just down the road
and I see him every day when I.
Speaker 2 (06:25):
Passed the temple mount How did this happen? Tell us?
What is your secret?
Speaker 4 (06:31):
Was these men here?
Speaker 2 (06:32):
Sirs?
Speaker 4 (06:33):
Did you heal the lame beggar.
Speaker 1 (06:35):
Ira gave a polite but awkward wave as more curious
onlookers came to investigate. He hadn't considered how others would
react to his miraculous healing. If he had been honest
with himself, he'd assumed most wouldn't care, let alone notice.
He wondered if the newfound strength in his legs was
(06:55):
worth being the center of attention For him, attention had
never meant anything but trouble. But Peter and John knew
the people weren't coming to make a mockery of Irah
or cause him any harm. They were coming in wonder
and awe at what they were witnessing. Peter tilted his
head toward Irah.
Speaker 2 (07:17):
Just take calm and follow our leader. We've done this before.
Speaker 1 (07:21):
Ira took a step behind the apostles and subconsciously gripped
their garments with his fingertips to feel some sense of security.
Peter looked at John to see if he was thinking
the same thing. John gestured forward and bowed his head,
giving Peter the cue to step up to the plate.
Speaker 2 (07:39):
Fellow Israelites, why are you so surprised at what you
see here? Today? You stare at us, as though it
was our own power or godliness that allowed us to
make this man walk. But it was not for our
sake that this man was healed. No, the God of Abraham,
Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified
(08:01):
his servant Jesus through this sign. The same Jesus was
the man you handed over to be killed. You disowned
him from his own people before Pilate, even when the
governor had decided in his own heart to let him go.
Speaker 1 (08:16):
Peter could tell that his words were cutting his audience
to the heart, just as he had seen the people's
response to the accusation of murdering Jesus on Pentecost. He
knew that the bad news would soon make way for
the good news of jesus gospel.
Speaker 2 (08:33):
But even worse, you disowned the Holy and Righteous One
and asked a murderer be released to you to join
your ranks. By your own hands, you killed the author
of life. But as the author of life, even the
grave could not hold him, for God raised him from
(08:54):
the dead. And we stand here today as witnesses of
this for your sake.
Speaker 1 (09:00):
Fist clenched tighter at the tunics of the apostles. He
was worried that his miracle worker was only making matters
worse by accusing the people of putting Jesus to death. Peter,
on the other hand, had been consumed with a peace
beyond his understanding. Peter could feel IRA's grip on the
side of his clothes. He placed his hand on Iris,
(09:23):
hoping that he could extend an ounce of peace to
his new acquaintance.
Speaker 2 (09:27):
By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom
you see and no was made strong. It is Jesus's
name and the faith that comes through him that has
completely healed him, as you can all see.
Speaker 4 (09:41):
So this man was healed by this Jesus. Yet you
say we killed him. I can't speak for the crowds here,
but I've never so much as struck my neighbor.
Speaker 2 (09:51):
Please take no offense at my words. I know that
you all acted in ignorance, just as the leaders of
our people did. But we now know that it was
God who allowed it, so that he could fulfill all
that he had forecalled through the prophets, that his Messiah
would suffer for the sake of the people.
Speaker 1 (10:11):
Ira was stunned that the man made no rebuttal against
the apostle statement. In fact, nobody did. It was as
though they had been enlightened and accepted Peter's accusation as true.
IRA's suspicions were quickly confirmed.
Speaker 4 (10:29):
Surely, there must be something we can do to make
it right. I would never intentionally dishonor the Lord, our God.
Is there nothing we can do to earn his forgiveness?
Speaker 1 (10:39):
Out of the corner of his eye, Peter could see
John beaming a smile, and twas the moment both of
them had been waiting for, Like clockwork, the gospel message
of their master had broken the people's hearts wide open,
and the spirit was now planting seeds in the freshly
cultivated soil. For all of their sowing and watering, it
(11:03):
was God who gave the increase.
Speaker 2 (11:05):
Repent of your sins. Turn to God and receive his
forgiveness Through the blood of Jesus. He will wipe out
your sins. Be of good cheer, brothers and sisters, For
in due time the Lord will send him Messiah, Jesus
Christ to you, and in that time you will experience
(11:26):
times of refreshing from him. But as for now, heaven
must receive him until the time comes for God to
restore everything, just as he promised long ago through his
holy prophets.
Speaker 1 (11:39):
The crowd was dead, silent, holding their collective breath, determined
to not mess a word of the bold preacher standing
before them. Peter felt like he was watching the scene
from outside his own body. As a boy, he had
memorized the stories of Israel's greats like Abraham, Jacob, Moses,
(12:00):
and David to picture himself a measly fisherman. One day,
moving crowds to repent was beyond his wildest dreams. But
for all his aspirations, it was Jesus who had brought
him thus far, and it was Jesus who would sustain him.
So long as it was the Lord's name he lifted
(12:22):
high before the people, Peter was confident God would continue
to use him.
Speaker 2 (12:27):
For Moses said, the Lord, your God will raise up
for you a prophet like me from among your own people.
You must listen to everything he tells you. Any One
who does not listen to him will be completely cut
off from their people. Indeed, beginning with Samuel, all the
prophets who have spoken have foretold these days. And you
(12:49):
are heirs of the prophets, and of the covenant cot
made with your fathers, he said to Abraham, through your offspring,
all peoples on earth will be blessed.
Speaker 1 (13:01):
Peter's call to repentance had worked. Dozens of men and
women who filled the courtyards had fallen to their knees
in deep conviction. They shuffled towards the feet of the Apostles.
They had been inspired by IRA's miraculous healing, but it
was only the transformative power of the gospel that had
(13:21):
allured their hearts to a saving faith in the Lord Jesus.
Peter and John did their best to control the crowds
while keeping an eye on Ira, who was still dumbfounded
at the unexpected gathering. The Apostles spent the next few
hours answering the people's questions. They told them about the
multitudes of other believers gathering regularly throughout Jerusalem, that they
(13:45):
could now join on this new road of following the
ways of Jesus. The dimming sunlight alerted the people of
nightfall swift approach, but nobody dared to depart from the gathering.
What they were learning was of greater importance than a
timely arrival to their homes. A woman was pressing through
(14:05):
the streams of people in the opposite direction. She was
doubled over and scanning the ground, calling out as she
made her way through the courtyard.
Speaker 4 (14:15):
Ira, Ira, where have they taken him?
Speaker 2 (14:19):
Oh?
Speaker 4 (14:19):
I knew I had a bad feeling about to day.
I should have never left him alone.
Speaker 1 (14:24):
IRA's head perked up at the sound. He spun his
head around like an owl as he laughed back in.
Speaker 2 (14:30):
Response, Turtza, is that you I'm over here.
Speaker 1 (14:35):
Ira stretched his body as tall as he could and
waved his arm sporadically over his head. His face broke
out in a wide grin at this accomplishment. Turtzu's face
contorted in disbelief at the sight. She gasped and seeing
her beloved friend not only well, but standing on his
(14:56):
own two feet. She had hoped to find Ira in
good health, but never expected to find him like this.
Speaker 2 (15:04):
What how you can thank my new friends here for that,
or rather you can thank their friend Jesus. But please
allow me to introduce you Peter and John.
Speaker 1 (15:18):
With a wave of his hand, the two men stepped
around Ira. Turtsa could find no words. For years, she
had painstakingly carried Ira to the temple gates out of
a devotion to care for her friend. If these men
had truly healed Ira, she considered them to be friends
(15:39):
of hers now too. She scanned Peter and John up
and down. From her observations, there was nothing remarkable or
any apparent stand out qualities about them, but through some
force she had yet to discover, they had indeed healed Irah.
(15:59):
His cheery bouncing beside the apostles made that unassailable. Peter
and John could read Turtz's astonishment like an open book.
They had seen the same look many times before, and
Jesus miracles, and now they would follow in his footsteps.
Speaker 2 (16:17):
Shaloon, it appears we are connected through our newly upright
friend here. My name is Peter, this is John. We
are followers of Jesus. It was through faith and by
his name that iron now stands. But I believe we've
caused enough of a commotion for you both today. Please
(16:39):
go and rest and sin no more.
Speaker 1 (16:43):
Turtsu gave a sudden and vibrant laugh.
Speaker 4 (16:46):
You want us to just go after all of this?
Speaker 2 (16:50):
Absolutely, you both have a lot of life to catch
up on. Plus the people here still have need for us.
Speaker 4 (16:57):
If you ever need anything, please let us know. We
are forever in your debt.
Speaker 2 (17:03):
You are in debt to no one. Now go in
the freedom of Jesus Christ.
Speaker 1 (17:09):
She smiled affectionately at Peter, then turned to Ira with
tears forming in her eyes. She was still trying to
reconcile this new reality in her mind. Ira clicked his
heels and promptly bent over to secure his mat to
his back. He gestured to the group and bound off
out of the temple courts. Tertza hesitated. This was the
(17:33):
first time in ages she would be leaving the temple
without a stretcher over her shoulder. She took a step forward,
then another. There was an unfamiliar air of lightness to
her steps, as though God himself had lifted her weariness
and propelled her forward. The walk back to her house
(17:55):
was therapeutic. Like Ira, viewing life free of her previous
burdens had given her a whole new perspective of the city.
No longer did she avoid the more unkempt roads or
laborious hills of the city. In fact, both she and
Ira gladly welcomed them, exercising the extent of their strength
(18:18):
without the burdens of their former life. The spirit of
Jesus Christ was sweeping through Jerusalem like wildfire, leaving nothing
in his path unchanged. But this change wasn't solely related
to circumstances or situations. He was breaking chains, renewing minds,
(18:41):
and transforming hearts to the praise of God's glorious grace.
Speaker 3 (18:52):
Peter starts off by asking a simple question, why do
you marvel at this or why do you look so
intently at us as though our own power or godliness
has made this man walk? Now? I love this because
Peter is essentially saying, why are you looking at us
as if we're some kind of spiritual superheroes. Why are
you staring at us as if it was our power
(19:12):
that made this man well? Peter is quick to redirect
the crowd's focus from himself and John back to Jesus
and my friends. This is so crucial for our faith
as well. When people praise us for our kindness, or
for our gentleness, or for some act of charity that
we perform for somebody else, we have to always and
faithfully redirect people's attention to the source of that good work. Jesus,
(19:38):
Peter knows a few things that many of us tend
to forget if First of all, it's not about you
at all, It's about Jesus and Jesus alone. Second, miracles,
as amazing as they are, are not the main event
in and of themselves. They're not the finish line. They're
actually the starting gun. Miracles grab people's attention, but it's
the message of the Gospel that saves souls. Here could
(20:00):
have easily basted in the glow of this miraculous moment,
he would sign a book deal, launch his new podcasts
in the series called Miracle Workers, and then take them
the show on the road. Instead, he turns the crowd's
amazement into an opportunity to preach about Jesus. Always be
wary of people who gain popularity and notoriety for their
miracles and build a brand centered around them. Peter and
(20:24):
John's response to people's praise tells us something about Jesus's
will and intention. Or when we perform miracles, when something
amazing happens through us, we must redirect people's attention to
the one who actually accomplished this work, the Holy Spirit.
Peter goes on to remind them that this wasn't some
random act of power. Either it was the work of
(20:46):
the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. He's speaking these
Jews language, connecting Jesus to the very foundations of their faith.
And then Peter goes for the jugular. He makes this statement,
you delivered up and denied the Holy and just One,
and you asked for the murder of God Pouch. Peter
isn't holding back here at all. He reminded them that
(21:08):
they chose barabbas a criminal over Jesus, the Prince of life.
He's saying that the one who performed this miracle and
the one who restored this man is the same one
who wants to restore your souls. But by no means
trick yourselves into thinking that you're in good standing with him.
In fact, you were his enemy. You're the one who
put him to death. This is actually a truth bomb
(21:30):
that we all need to ingest ourselves. As hard as
it might be, we were enemies of God until we
chose to follow him, And there's no inherent identity that
we're automatically in good standing with God. We need a
call upon the name of Jesus. Peter is putting it
out there. You got it wrong, guys, you got it
wrong big time. But before you think Peter is just
(21:50):
up there to shame them, understand that he's not interested
in condemnation, but in conviction. He's saying, look in the mirror,
you messed up, but there's still hope. Peter clarifies how
the lame man was healed. He said that by Jesus'
name and through faith in his name, this man was
made strong. It wasn't Peter's charisma or John's piety, It
(22:11):
was the powerful name of Jesus. In Biblical terms, a
name wasn't just a label. It represented the very essence
and authority of a person. So when Peter says faith
in his name, he's talking about a faith that taps
into the very power, presence, and identity of Jesus himself.
So let's pause for a second here. What are we
(22:32):
putting our faith in today? Whose name are we living for?
Is it our own? Is it a celebrity or a
politician that we follow? Is it our good intentions, our
hard work, or our reputation. Is it our well thought
out plans or careers our bosses? Is it a brand
that we follow? Friends, let me tell you none of
these things can make the lame walk or the blind see.
(22:54):
We need to have faith squarely in the name of Jesus,
because only he has the power to transform lives. Peter,
after dropping this very heavy truth, doesn't leave them in despair, though.
Instead he gives them a path forward. He says, repent
therefore and be converted, and your sins may be plotted
out so that the times of refreshing may come in
(23:15):
the presence of the Lord. Let's talk about repentance really quick,
because a lot of people mistake repentance for apologizing. You
see apologizing as saying sorry and acknowledging you did something wrong.
Repentance isn't just acknowledging you did something wrong or feeling sorry.
It's a turnaround. It's like making a U turn when
you realize you're headed in the wrong direction. But here's
(23:36):
the good news. Even though repentance is hard, and changing
our ways is hard, and acknowledging the power of Jesus
is hard, it leads to ultimate refreshment. Isn't that what
we all need? And a world full of chaos, stress
and bad news, we need times of refreshing and these
times come from the presence of the Lord. From Netflix,
Binge's social media likes, or a perfect vacation. Peter reminds
(23:58):
them of Moses's prophecy, the Lord your God will raise
up for you a prophet like me from your brethren, Hmn,
you shall hear in all things. The crowd knew this
prophecy well. They knew that Moses was speaking of an
ultimate redeemer in Messiah. And Peter is making it clear,
Jesus is that prophet that Moses spoke of, and rejecting
him isn't just a bad decision. It's a disastrous one
(24:19):
for your soul. Peter says it plainly. Every soul who
will not hear the prophet shall be utterly destroyed. But
he doesn't end with a threat. He points back to
the promise given to Abraham in your Seed, all the
families of the earth shall be blessed. Peter is saying,
this promise is for you, but it's also to anyone
who will receive it, of any nation. So here's the takeaway. Friends,
(24:43):
don't just marvel at a simple miracle cling to the Messiah.
The healed man at the Gate Beautiful wanted change, but
he got transformation. The crowd wanted a spectacle, but they
got a sermon and you. You may come looking for
a little inspiration today, but God wants to offer you
so much more. He wants to offer you a new
life in Jesus. So repent, turn around, and let the
(25:05):
times of refreshing come. Because when you put your faith
in his name, Jesus's name, miracles don't just happen. They
transform your outlook on life and they transform who you
are from the inside out. Thanks again for listening to
the Jesus Podcast. Join us tomorrow for another breathtaking story
inspired by the Book of Acts, where we learn that
Jesus moves and breathes in us and through us today
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