Acts 3:5 – So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them.
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse shows a moment of anticipation. The lame man, who had been begging at the temple gate, now turns his full attention to Peter and John. Up until now, he had been asking for money from anyone who passed by. When Peter and John stopped and spoke to him, he expected they were about to give him something.
The man’s expectation was entirely focused on receiving money—something temporary that would help him survive another day. He had no idea that he was about to receive something far greater than silver or gold. This moment highlights a common human tendency: we often look to God for short-term help when He actually wants to give us something far greater.
Historical Context
In the first-century world, beggars were a common sight in public spaces, especially near places of worship. The Jewish people were encouraged to give to the poor as an act of righteousness, so many beggars positioned themselves near the temple, where generous worshipers might help them.
The lame man had likely been sitting at the temple gate for years, relying on the kindness of strangers. He was used to getting small amounts of money from various people, and that was all he expected from Peter and John. It never crossed his mind that healing was possible.
At this time, people with disabilities had no other means of income or support. There were no hospitals or social programs to care for them. If they could not work, they depended entirely on charity.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the difference between human expectations and God’s greater plan. The lame man thought his biggest need was financial help, but God knew his real need was physical and spiritual restoration.
This teaches an important lesson: we often ask God for what we think we need, but He has something even better in store. Just like the lame man expected only money but received healing, we sometimes settle for asking God for temporary relief when He wants to transform our lives.
Another theological point is the necessity of faith. While the man didn’t know a miracle was coming, he did give Peter and John his full attention. This act of looking up in expectation mirrors the way we should approach God—ready to receive whatever He has for us, even if it’s not what we initially expect.
Literary Analysis
Luke, the author of Acts, uses this verse to create anticipation. The phrase “expecting to get something” builds suspense for the reader. The man is about to receive something, but not what he expects.
This verse also emphasizes a shift in focus. Up until this point, the man was simply begging as part of his daily routine. But when Peter and John stopped and spoke to him, he became focused on them. This shift in focus parallels a deeper spiritual truth: when we turn our full attention to God, we open ourselves up to receive more than we could ever imagine.
Biblical Cross-References
- Ephesians 3:20 – “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine…” This verse reflects how God often exceeds our expectations.
- Isaiah 55:8-9 – “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.” The lame man thought he needed money, but God had a greater plan.
- Matthew 7:7-11 – Jesus teaches that God gives good gifts to those who ask, but often in ways they don’t expect.
- John 5:5-9 – Another man who had been disabled for many years was healed by Jesus, even though he wasn’t expecting a miracle.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse challenges us to ask: What am I expecting from God? Sometimes, we come to Him asking only for help with temporary problems—financial relief, physical healing, or comfort in hardship. While these things matter, God often has something even greater in store.
It also reminds us to be ready to receive from God, even when His answer looks different from what we imagined. The lame man expected money, but he received a miracle. In the same way, we should be open to God’s unexpected blessings.
Finally, this verse teaches us about faith. The man had to give his full attention to Peter and John before receiving his healing. In the same way, when we focus on God and trust Him, we position ourselves to experience His power.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in how He doesn’t just give us what we ask for—He gives us what we truly need. The lame man thought his greatest need was money, but God knew he needed healing.
This verse shows that God sees beyond our temporary struggles and cares about our total restoration. He doesn’t just want to fix our immediate problems; He wants to transform our entire lives.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus often interacted with people who expected one thing but received something greater. For example:
- In John 4:13-14, the Samaritan woman at the well expected water, but Jesus offered her living water—eternal life.
- In Mark 2:3-12, a paralyzed man was brought to Jesus expecting physical healing, but Jesus first forgave his sins, addressing his deeper need before healing his body.
- In John 6:26-27, people followed Jesus because He had fed them, but He told them to seek the “food that endures to eternal life.”
Peter and John were continuing Jesus’ work. Through them, Jesus’ power was still healing people and restoring lives. This miracle in Acts 3 is another reminder that Jesus is alive and working through His followers.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What am I expecting from God in my life right now? Am I limiting Him to temporary solutions instead of trusting Him for something greater?
- Have I ever experienced a time when God answered my prayers in an unexpected way? How did it shape my faith?
- How can I shift my focus from my immediate needs to trusting in God’s greater plan?
- Do I approach God with an open heart, ready to receive whatever He has for me?
- How can I encourage others to expect more from God than just temporary help?