Acts 9:36 - Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which when translated, means Dorcas. This woman was full of good works and acts of mercy which she did.
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What does "Acts 9:36" mean?
This verse from Acts 9:36 introduces a woman named Tabitha, also known as Dorcas, who was a disciple in the city of Joppa. Let's break down what it means:
"Now there was at Joppa...": This establishes the setting. Joppa was an ancient port city on the Mediterranean coast, now part of modern-day Israel.
"...a certain disciple named Tabitha, which when translated, means Dorcas.": This introduces the main character. The term "disciple" means a follower or learner of Jesus. The verse tells us she had two names: Tabitha (her Aramaic name) and Dorcas (her Greek name), both meaning "gazelle". This likely indicates that the early church in Joppa included both Aramaic and Greek speakers.
"This woman was full of good works and acts of mercy which she did.": This is the most important part of the verse. It highlights Tabitha/Dorcas's character and actions. She wasn't just a believer in name; she actively lived out her faith through practical acts of kindness and compassion. The phrase "full of good works and acts of mercy" suggests she was known for her generosity and help to those in need. "Acts of mercy" would likely have involved helping the poor, sick, or widowed - showing compassion to vulnerable members of her community.
In essence, the verse portrays Tabitha/Dorcas as a devoted follower of Jesus who exemplified Christian love through her deeds. It sets the stage for the miraculous event that follows, where she is raised from the dead by Peter, demonstrating God's power and further spreading the gospel.
This verse is significant because it:
Shows the practical outworking of faith: It demonstrates that being a disciple involves more than just believing; it involves living a life of service and compassion.
Highlights the role of women in the early church: Tabitha/Dorcas is a prominent figure in her community, actively involved in good works.
Sets the stage for a miracle: The verse's emphasis on her good works likely serves to emphasize the tragedy of her death and the impact it had on the community, thus magnifying the miracle that will occur.
Demonstrates the Gospel's social impact: The early Christians were known for their care for the poor and needy, which was a powerful witness to the transforming love of Christ.
Acts 9:36 - Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which when translated, means Dorcas. This woman was full of good works and acts of mercy which she did.
What does "Acts 9:36" mean?
This verse from Acts 9:36 introduces a woman named Tabitha, also known as Dorcas, who was a disciple in the city of Joppa. Let's break down what it means:
"Now there was at Joppa...": This establishes the setting. Joppa was an ancient port city on the Mediterranean coast, now part of modern-day Israel.
"...a certain disciple named Tabitha, which when translated, means Dorcas.": This introduces the main character. The term "disciple" means a follower or learner of Jesus. The verse tells us she had two names: Tabitha (her Aramaic name) and Dorcas (her Greek name), both meaning "gazelle". This likely indicates that the early church in Joppa included both Aramaic and Greek speakers.
"This woman was full of good works and acts of mercy which she did.": This is the most important part of the verse. It highlights Tabitha/Dorcas's character and actions. She wasn't just a believer in name; she actively lived out her faith through practical acts of kindness and compassion. The phrase "full of good works and acts of mercy" suggests she was known for her generosity and help to those in need. "Acts of mercy" would likely have involved helping the poor, sick, or widowed - showing compassion to vulnerable members of her community.
In essence, the verse portrays Tabitha/Dorcas as a devoted follower of Jesus who exemplified Christian love through her deeds. It sets the stage for the miraculous event that follows, where she is raised from the dead by Peter, demonstrating God's power and further spreading the gospel.
This verse is significant because it:
Shows the practical outworking of faith: It demonstrates that being a disciple involves more than just believing; it involves living a life of service and compassion.
Highlights the role of women in the early church: Tabitha/Dorcas is a prominent figure in her community, actively involved in good works.
Sets the stage for a miracle: The verse's emphasis on her good works likely serves to emphasize the tragedy of her death and the impact it had on the community, thus magnifying the miracle that will occur.
Demonstrates the Gospel's social impact: The early Christians were known for their care for the poor and needy, which was a powerful witness to the transforming love of Christ.