Miracles of Peter
Quick Summary
The miracles of Peter in the New Testament reveal the transforming power of the Holy Spirit at work through an ordinary fisherman turned apostle. These signs (healings, resurrections, judgments, deliverance, and bold Spirit-inspired actions) confirm the truth of the gospel and show how God builds the early church through compassion, courage, and divine authority.
Introduction
When readers meet Peter in the Gospels, he is impulsive, flawed, and sincere. By the time the book of Acts unfolds, Peter has become a pillar of the early church. The shift is not due to personal improvement alone but to the presence of the Holy Spirit. The miracles associated with Peter demonstrate that the risen Christ continues his work through his apostles.
The miracles of Peter also serve another purpose: they knit the early Christian community together. People are healed, restored, protected, and even confronted with truth. These miracles invite readers to see how God works through human hands to bear witness to Christ.
Healing the Lame Beggar at the Temple (Acts 3:1–10)
Peter and John encounter a man lame from birth near the Beautiful Gate. Peter declares, "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, stand up and walk." The man leaps to his feet, praising God.
This miracle:
Publicly confirms the resurrection of Jesus.
Draws a crowd for Peter’s sermon.
Reveals Christ’s compassion for the marginalized.
It becomes one of the defining early acts of the apostles.
Signs and Wonders Among the Apostles (Acts 5:12–16)
Acts describes numerous healings performed through Peter, including moments when people place the sick in the streets so that Peter’s shadow might fall on them.
The focus is not on Peter’s status but on the overwhelming presence of God in the early church.
Judgment of Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1–11)
One of the most sobering miracles in Scripture occurs when Ananias and Sapphira lie about their offering. After hiding the truth, each falls dead when confronted by Peter.
This sign emphasizes:
The holiness of the Christian community.
The danger of deceit.
The seriousness of belonging to God’s people.
Fear spreads among the believers and throughout Jerusalem.
Peter’s Deliverance From Prison (Acts 5:17–20)
The apostles are arrested, but during the night, an angel opens the prison doors and instructs them to continue preaching.
Peter’s release:
Shows God’s protection over the mission.
Demonstrates that no earthly power can silence the gospel.
Healing of Aeneas (Acts 9:32–35)
In Lydda, Peter heals Aeneas, a man paralyzed for eight years. Peter simply says, "Jesus Christ heals you; get up and make your bed."
The healing leads to widespread belief throughout Lydda and Sharon.
Raising Tabitha (Dorcas) From the Dead (Acts 9:36–43)
Peter is called to Joppa when Tabitha, a beloved disciple known for her good works, dies. Peter prays, tells her to arise, and she is restored to life.
This miracle mirrors Jesus’ raising of Jairus’s daughter and demonstrates the continuity between Jesus’ ministry and the apostles'.
The news spreads, and many believe in the Lord.
Peter’s Vision and the Gentile Mission (Acts 10)
Although not a physical miracle, Peter’s vision of the sheet descending from heaven is a divine revelation that transforms the church’s mission. The Holy Spirit falls upon Gentiles in Cornelius’s home as Peter preaches.
The miracle shows:
God makes no distinctions among people.
The gospel is for all nations.
The Spirit leads the church beyond its comfort zone.
Peter Freed From Prison Again (Acts 12:1–17)
Peter is imprisoned under Herod Agrippa. The church prays earnestly. An angel appears, chains fall off, and Peter is led out past sleeping guards.
Peter’s escape:
Reveals God’s answer to the church’s prayers.
Confirms God’s sovereignty over rulers.
Strengthens the believers in a time of persecution.
Confronting Simon the Sorcerer (Acts 8:18–24)
Simon offers money to receive the power of the Holy Spirit. Peter rebukes him sharply, warning him to repent.
This incident is not a miracle of healing but a spiritual act of discernment that protects the integrity of the gospel.
Theological Meaning of Peter’s Miracles
1. Christ’s Power Continues Through His Followers
Peter’s miracles show that the risen Christ is still at work.
2. The Holy Spirit Empowers Ordinary People
Peter becomes bold, compassionate, and faithful because of the Spirit’s presence.
3. The Mission Extends to All Nations
Peter’s vision and Gentile encounters reveal God’s expansive mercy.
4. Healing Builds Community
Many of Peter’s miracles restore individuals to the life of the community.
5. God Protects the Church’s Witness
Prison breaks, judgments, and healings all preserve the mission.
FAQs
How many miracles did Peter perform?
Acts records at least seven major miracles, with additional references to widespread signs and wonders.
Why are Peter’s miracles important?
They confirm the apostles’ authority, spread the gospel, and demonstrate the Spirit’s work in the early church.
Did Peter perform miracles like Jesus?
He heals and even raises the dead, but always in Jesus’ name and through the Spirit’s power.
What is Peter’s most famous miracle?
Many consider the healing of the lame beggar or the raising of Tabitha to be his most significant miracles.
