Gospel Outreach International

What does God’s approach to healing reveal about His divine purpose? This Bible study explores the nature of miracles in Scripture, particularly focusing on Peter’s healing ministry in Acts. Through examining these accounts alongside other biblical examples, we discover that God’s healing works according to His sovereign will rather than human expectation. As we explore these passages, we’re invited to consider how God’s purposes unfold through both healing and suffering in ways that ultimately glorify Him.

And Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you; rise and make your bed.” And immediately he rose. Acts 9:34

• Peter’s healing ministry through Judea, Galilee, and Samaria showed his continued work after Jesus’ ascension
• The healing of Aeneas (paralyzed for 8 years) paralleled Jesus’ healing of the paralytic man in Mark 2
• Peter specifically credited Jesus Christ with the healing: “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you”
• Dorcas (Tabitha), known for her good works, was raised from the dead through Peter’s prayer
• God doesn’t heal everyone according to His sovereign purposes, as seen in various Scripture passages
• Jesus himself did not heal everyone present at the pool of Bethesda (John 5)
• Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” was not removed despite prayer (2 Corinthians 12)
• Faith plays an important role in healing, but God’s sovereign will ultimately determines outcomes

And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. Acts 9:42

Throughout this study, we’ve seen how Jesus worked through Peter to perform miraculous healings and even raise someone from the dead. Just as Aeneas was made “praiseworthy” again through healing and Dorcas (meaning “clear-sighted”) was restored to her service, Jesus continues to restore us when our faith grows cold or we become spiritually worn out. The beautiful thing about these accounts isn’t just the physical healing, but how they point to Jesus’ power and draw people to Him. As we reflect on these stories, let’s remember that whether through healing or sustaining grace in suffering, Jesus remains the center of our faith and the ultimate source of our spiritual restoration.

Bible References

• Acts 9:32-43
• Matthew 8:16
• John 5
• 2 Corinthians 12
• 1 Kings 14
• Mark 2