Acts 9:42, "And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord," refers to the result of a significant event: the resurrection of Tabitha (also known as Dorcas) by the apostle Peter.
Let's break down the meaning:
"And it became known throughout all Joppa...": The news of Tabitha's miraculous return to life spread rapidly throughout the entire city of Joppa (modern-day Jaffa, in Israel). Joppa was a port city and a significant center of trade and population. The phrase implies that the event was not a secret or localized occurrence, but rather a widely publicized and discussed phenomenon.
"...and many believed in the Lord.": The widespread knowledge of this miracle led to a surge in faith in Jesus Christ. "Many" suggests a substantial number of people in Joppa were convinced of Jesus's power and divinity, and therefore embraced the Christian faith. This likely involved both people who were previously uncommitted and those who actively opposed Christianity.
In essence, the verse signifies:
Confirmation of Peter's Apostolic Authority: The miracle served as tangible evidence that Peter was an apostle with divine power, lending credibility to his teachings and ministry.
Evidence of Jesus' Power: The resurrection of Tabitha demonstrated Jesus's power over life and death, further solidifying his claim as the Messiah.
Expansion of the Christian Community: The increase in believers in Joppa contributed to the growth of the early Christian church and its spread throughout the region.
In short, the miraculous resurrection of Tabitha was not just a personal restoration, but a powerful event that testified to the truth of the gospel and led to many people turning to faith in Jesus.
Acts 9:42, "And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord," refers to the result of a significant event: the resurrection of Tabitha (also known as Dorcas) by the apostle Peter.
Let's break down the meaning:
"And it became known throughout all Joppa...": The news of Tabitha's miraculous return to life spread rapidly throughout the entire city of Joppa (modern-day Jaffa, in Israel). Joppa was a port city and a significant center of trade and population. The phrase implies that the event was not a secret or localized occurrence, but rather a widely publicized and discussed phenomenon.
"...and many believed in the Lord.": The widespread knowledge of this miracle led to a surge in faith in Jesus Christ. "Many" suggests a substantial number of people in Joppa were convinced of Jesus's power and divinity, and therefore embraced the Christian faith. This likely involved both people who were previously uncommitted and those who actively opposed Christianity.
In essence, the verse signifies:
Confirmation of Peter's Apostolic Authority: The miracle served as tangible evidence that Peter was an apostle with divine power, lending credibility to his teachings and ministry.
Evidence of Jesus' Power: The resurrection of Tabitha demonstrated Jesus's power over life and death, further solidifying his claim as the Messiah.
Expansion of the Christian Community: The increase in believers in Joppa contributed to the growth of the early Christian church and its spread throughout the region.
In short, the miraculous resurrection of Tabitha was not just a personal restoration, but a powerful event that testified to the truth of the gospel and led to many people turning to faith in Jesus.