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Acts 3:12

And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk?

Acts 3:12 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Acts, Peter is addressing a crowd after he and John healed a man who had been lame from birth. Peter is questioning why the people are amazed by this miracle, as if it was done by their own power or holiness. Peter wants to make it clear that the healing was not something they did on their own, but rather through the power of God. This verse highlights the importance of giving credit to God for the miraculous works that are done through individuals. It serves as a reminder to always recognize and acknowledge the true source of power and to be humble in the face of extraordinary events. By emphasizing the role of God in this healing, Peter is redirecting the attention and praise away from himself and towards the divine force behind it all.

Theological Overview

Upon examining this verse, it is crucial to delve into the theological interpretation behind Peter's words. In this verse, Peter is preaching to a group of people who are amazed by a miraculous healing that happened before their eyes. Peter, in his response, seeks to redirect their attention away from himself and John, emphasizing that the healing was not of their own doing or power, but rather by the authority and power of Jesus Christ. Peter's words convey the idea that it is through faith in Jesus that such miracles are performed, not through any personal merit or ability. Furthermore, Peter's words serve as a reminder to the people that their focus should be on God and the glory of His name, rather than on human achievements or abilities. This theological interpretation underscores the importance of recognizing and acknowledging the sovereignty and power of God in all things, including miraculous events such as the healing described in this verse.

Acts 3:12 in other translations

American Standard Version

And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this man? or why fasten ye your eyes on us, as though by our own power or godliness we had made him to walk?

World English Bible

When Peter saw it, he responded to the people, “You men of Israel, why do you marvel at this man? Why do you fasten your eyes on us, as though by our own power or godliness we had made him walk?

Douay-Rheims

But Peter seeing, made answer to the people: Ye men of Israel, why wonder you at this? Or why look you upon us, as if by our strength or power we had made this man to walk?

Geneva Bible (1599)

So when Peter saw it, he answered vnto the people, Ye me of Israel, why marueile ye at this? or why looke ye so stedfastly on vs, as though by our owne power or godlines, we had made this man go?