The Book of Acts - Week 18

May 17, 2026

Join Minister Mike Murphy as he delivers The Book of Acts throughout 2026, detailing the founding and growth of the early church after Christ’s ascension. Acts documents the spread of the Gospel, the inclusion of Gentiles, and the establishment of Christian communities.

Acts 9:32-43 Miracles and Mercy
In this sermon, Minister Murphy talks about:
I. Peter’s Ministry Expands Beyond Jerusalem (Acts 9:32–35)
  A. Peter Travels Among the Believers (v. 32)
     *Peter visits Christians living throughout the region. He comes to the saints in Lydda.
  B. Healing of Aeneas (vv. 33–34)
     *Peter meets Aeneas, paralyzed for eight years.
     *Peter declares that Jesus Christ heals him. Aeneas immediately rises.
  C. Result of the Miracle (v. 35)
     *People in Lydda and Sharon witness the healing.
     *Many turn to the Lord.

II. Raising of Tabitha (Dorcas) in Joppa (Acts 9:36–42)
  A. Introduction to Tabitha (v. 36)
     *Tabitha (Dorcas) is introduced as a disciple in Joppa. She is known for good works and charity.
  B. Tabitha’s Death (v. 37)
     *She becomes sick and dies. Her body is washed and placed in an upper room.
  C. Peter Is Summoned (vv. 38–39)
     *Disciples sendfor Peter because he is nearby in Lydda. Peter arrives and sees widows mourning and showing garments         Tabitha made.
  D. Peter Raises Tabitha (vv. 40–41)
     *Peter sends everyone out of the room.

     *He kneels and prays.
     *He tells her, “Tabitha, arise.”
     *She opens her eyes and sits up. Peter presents her alive to the believers and widows.
  E. Result of the Miracle (v. 42)
     *News spreads throughout Joppa.

     *Many believe in the Lord.

III. Transition to the Next Phase of the Gospel Mission (Acts 9:43)
  Peter Stays with Simon the Tanner
     *Peter remains in Joppa for may days.

     *He stays with Simon, a tanner.

     *This prepares for the events involving Cornelius in Acts 10 and signals growing openness to Gentiles.