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
Peter’s response, “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?” shifts the focus from the miracle to the source. Peter corrects any tendency to credit human ability, redirecting attention to God’s sovereignty and Jesus’ role in salvation. The speech uses a cultural cue: addressing “men of Israel” signals an appeal to the audience’s shared religious identity and history.
This verse anchors a key doctrinal point: salvation and healing come from God’s grace in Jesus, not from human merit. It challenges idolatry of religious leaders or the rite itself and emphasizes faith in Christ as the conduit of divine power.
The temptation to boast in spiritual experiences remains. Christians are called to give God glory and to model humility. We should help others distinguish between human skills and divine gifts, pointing to the giver rather than the gift.
Practical examples: celebrate others’ gifts without envy; teach communities to attribute healing and transformation to God; practice accountability and humility in leadership.
Cross-References
- 1 Corinthians 1:29-31
- Galatians 6:14
- Philippians 2:3-4
- 2 Chronicles 32:18