Acts 3:6 – Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

In this verse, Peter responds to the lame man’s expectation of receiving money by telling him something surprising: “Silver or gold I do not have.” Instead of offering financial help, Peter offers something far greater—healing in the name of Jesus Christ.

This statement reveals a powerful truth. The man thought his biggest need was money, but Peter saw that his real need was restoration. Peter didn’t have wealth, but he had something of eternal value—the power of Jesus.

The phrase “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk” is the key to this verse. Peter was not healing the man by his own power or authority. He was calling on the power of Jesus to perform the miracle. This shows that Jesus’ work did not end when He ascended to heaven—His power was still at work through His followers.

Historical Context

At this time, the temple was the center of Jewish worship, and many beggars gathered at its gates to receive charity. The Jewish people were taught to give to the poor (Deuteronomy 15:7-8), so beggars relied on the generosity of worshipers.

Peter and John were not wealthy men. They had left their former livelihoods as fishermen to follow Jesus. Unlike the religious leaders who controlled the temple’s wealth, Peter and John had no money to give. But what they had—faith in Jesus—was far more powerful.

In Jewish culture, names carried deep significance. To do something “in the name of” someone meant acting with their authority and power. By invoking Jesus’ name, Peter was declaring that Jesus was still alive and still working through His disciples.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches several important truths:

1. The power of Jesus is greater than material wealth. The lame man wanted money, but what he really needed was healing. In the same way, we often focus on temporary needs when God wants to give us something far more lasting.
2. Jesus’ power continues through His followers. Peter and John did not heal by their own strength. They made it clear that the miracle came “in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.” Even though Jesus was no longer physically on earth, His authority was still active.
3. True generosity goes beyond material gifts. Peter and John had no money to give, but they shared what they did have—faith in Christ and the power of healing. This reminds us that sometimes the greatest gift we can offer is not money, but the truth and hope found in Jesus.

Literary Analysis

This verse is structured in a way that builds contrast and anticipation:

• “Silver or gold I do not have” – This creates an expectation that the beggar will receive nothing.
• “But what I do have I give you” – This signals a surprising turn. Peter has something valuable to offer, but it’s not what the man expected.
• “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” – The climax of the verse, where Peter calls on Jesus’ power to bring healing.

The wording emphasizes both the authority of Jesus and the gift of faith. Peter does not simply wish for the man to be healed—he commands healing in the name of Jesus. This reflects the confidence the disciples had in Christ’s power.

Biblical Cross-References

• Matthew 10:8 – Jesus told His disciples, “Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.” Peter was obeying this command.
• John 14:12 – Jesus said, “Whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these.” This healing is an example of that promise being fulfilled.
• Philippians 2:9-11 – This passage speaks of Jesus’ name being above every name, showing the power and authority that comes through His name.
• Acts 4:12 – “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” This reinforces the idea that the power of healing and salvation comes only through Jesus.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse challenges us to think about what we truly value. Are we more focused on material wealth, or do we recognize the far greater treasure of knowing Jesus?

It also reminds us that we don’t need money or status to make a difference in people’s lives. Like Peter and John, we may not have great wealth, but we do have the power of the gospel. We can share hope, encouragement, and the truth of Jesus with those in need.

Additionally, this verse encourages us to trust in Jesus’ power. Peter had no doubt that Jesus could heal the man, and he acted boldly in faith. Do we have the same confidence in Christ’s power at work today?

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is shown in how He gives us what we truly need, not just what we think we need. The lame man expected money, but God gave him something far greater—healing and a new life.

This verse also reveals God’s personal care. He didn’t overlook this man or leave him in his suffering. Instead, through Peter and John, He stepped into the man’s life and restored him.

God’s love is not limited to financial provision. He is concerned with our whole being—body, soul, and spirit. He wants to restore us completely, just as He did for the lame man.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse directly demonstrates the continuing power of Jesus. Even though He had ascended to heaven, His name still carried authority to heal and restore.

Throughout His ministry, Jesus healed many people, including the lame (Luke 5:24-25, John 5:8-9). Now, His disciples were doing the same, proving that His power was still at work.

This miracle also points to the deeper healing that Jesus offers. Physical healing is temporary, but salvation is eternal. The same Jesus who healed this man also offers us forgiveness and eternal life through His name (Acts 4:12).

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Am I trusting in material things to meet my needs, or am I relying on Jesus?
2. How can I give to others in ways beyond money—through faith, encouragement, or acts of kindness?
3. Do I have confidence in the power of Jesus’ name, as Peter and John did?
4. In what ways have I seen God provide for me in ways I didn’t expect?
5. How can I boldly share the message of Jesus with those in need around me?