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Acts 3:5 KJV
And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them.
Acts 3:5 Bible Commentary
Acts 3:5 Commentary Overview
Verse: "And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them." (Acts 3:5)
Contextual Background
This verse takes place after Peter and John had gone to the temple to pray, encountering a man who was lame from birth. The lame man asked for alms, setting the stage for the miraculous healing that would follow. This particular moment is crucial as it reveals the heart of the early Church—its care for the needy and its reliance on divine power for healing and transformation.
Insights from Public Domain Commentaries
Matthew Henry's Commentary
Matthew Henry emphasizes the condition of the beggar, who not only sought monetary assistance but also symbolizes the spiritual needs of humanity. He underscores that the beggar looked at the apostles with anticipation, which illustrates a vital aspect of faith—expectation. Henry points out that faith often springs from need, creating a connection to divine provision. The act of "giving heed" speaks to an openness to receive from God, an essential disposition in the Christian life.
Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible
Albert Barnes clarifies the significance of the phrase "expecting to receive something of them." The expectation shown by the beggar is a crucial element in the miracle that follows. Barnes suggests that this expectation went beyond mere alms; it conveys a deep yearning for something transformative. He also notes that Peter and John, recognizing this expectation, were catalyzed to perform an act of divine healing. The interaction exemplifies the power of alignment between human need and divine response.
Adam Clarke's Commentary
Adam Clarke provides further depth by analyzing the implications of the beggar's anticipation. He notes that the man's focus was outward, seeking assistance, yet his heart was likely yearning for healing and liberation from his physical limitations. Clarke elaborates on the term "gave heed," indicating a moment of attention that transforms mere observation into expectation. This focus reflects the essence of prayer and petition in the Christian experience, where believers trust in God's provision.
Theological Implications
- Faith and Expectation: This verse invites reflection on the nature of faith. The man's expectation serves as a template for believers today—anticipating God's movement in response to their needs.
- The Role of Divine Power: The passage sets a precedent for the Church's reliance on God's miraculous works, illustrating that spiritual and physical needs can be met through divine intervention.
- Community and Care: It emphasizes the importance of community support, showcasing the role of believers in addressing the needs of others through acts of kindness and mercy.
Applications for Today’s Believers
Acts 3:5 challenges contemporary believers to reflect on their own expectations from God. As pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars engage with this text, they are called to examine:
- Are we genuinely expectant of God’s provision in our lives, as the beggar was?
- How can we encourage an atmosphere of faith and expectation within our communities?
- What steps can be taken to meet the physical and spiritual needs of those around us?
Conclusion
Acts 3:5 is a profound gateway to understanding the dynamics of faith, expectation, and divine provision. Through the lenses of public domain commentaries, readers are urged to approach the text with a sense of anticipation for how God moves in response to human need. As we continue to reflect on this passage, may it inspire us to foster a deep trust in God's faithfulness and engage actively with the needs of those around us.