v1 3pm is the “hour of prayer”. John and Peter were headed up to the temple to go pray. They retained some of the Jewish customs, it would appear.
Beautiful was the gate where the lame dude was set to beg. Why would a man go beg at the temple as people entered to pray? Was he exploiting their need to repent prior to going into be with God. Is this an exploitation of God? How many beggars and homeless folks on the side of the road do we see that exploit the name of God? “God bless you”, etc. is common signage. This has been going on for a long time. 2nd commandment says not to take the Lord’s name in vain. Do not exploit the name for personal gain.
v6 When Peter healed the guy, he did not ask God to do it. He commanded the guy to walk in the Name of Christ. That was it. Also, he physically grabbed the guy and yanked him up off of the ground. There is a big element of faith in that today since it would easily lead to a lawsuit if God didnt heal. Interesting, indeed. There was a big element of faith back then too, one would think. I imagine that the townspeople would be quick to stone a person for yanking a lame person up off of the ground.
The guy walked, leaped and praised God. The people around “took note” of who he was (lame guy) and what he was doing. And, he joined Peter and John in going to prayer. His first action was to go with them to praise God and pray.
Peter’s first reaction was to deflect the crowd’s amazement to God. He didnt want the credit. It looks like the people gave Peter and John the credit.
v15 Jesus = “Prince (or Author) of Life”
v16 On the BASIS of FAITH in HIS NAME, it is the NAME of Jesus which has strengthened this man whom you see and know; and the FAITH that comes THROUGH him has GIVEN him this PERFECT health in the PRESENCE of you ALL.
Faith comes through us. Jesus’ Name provides power to heal. Believe in His Name, and you have the power to heal. Nothing else is needed. And, you get PERFECT health – not partial health. Perfect, says Peter.
v19 Repentance leads to refreshing