Acts 9:35 – “All those who lived in Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

This verse describes the powerful effect of the miraculous healing of Aeneas (Acts 9:34). After being paralyzed and bedridden for eight years, Aeneas was healed instantly when Peter, in Jesus’ name, commanded him to get up. This miracle was so remarkable that the entire region took notice.

The impact of this healing went far beyond just Aeneas—it led to a spiritual awakening. People in Lydda and Sharon saw the undeniable proof of God’s power, and many “turned to the Lord.” This phrase means that they believed in Jesus Christ and committed their lives to Him.

This verse highlights that miracles in Scripture are not just about physical healing; they are signs pointing people to God. The ultimate goal of this miracle was not just Aeneas’ recovery but the salvation of many.

Historical Context

At this time, the early church was spreading beyond Jerusalem. Lydda was a major town along trade routes, and Sharon referred to the fertile coastal plain stretching north of Lydda. These areas were home to both Jews and Gentiles, making them key locations for the gospel’s expansion.

Miracles were often used by God to confirm the truth of the gospel, especially in places where people had not yet heard or believed. The Jewish people would have recognized this healing as evidence that God was at work, while Gentiles would have seen it as a demonstration of divine power.

This moment also reflects a growing trend in the book of Acts—the gospel was moving beyond just Jerusalem and into the surrounding regions, fulfilling Jesus’ command in Acts 1:8 that His disciples would be His witnesses “in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Theological Implications

1. God’s Power Leads to Salvation – The miracle drew people’s attention, but it was the message of Jesus that transformed their hearts.
2. Faith Often Comes Through Witnessing God’s Work – Many people turned to Christ after seeing the undeniable evidence of His power in Aeneas’ healing.
3. The Gospel Is for All People – Lydda and Sharon were diverse regions, showing that the message of Christ was spreading beyond Jerusalem to a wider audience.

Literary Analysis

Luke, the author of Acts, often highlights the cause-and-effect pattern of miracles leading to conversions. Similar to how Jesus’ miracles drew large crowds and increased faith, Peter’s healing of Aeneas had a ripple effect throughout the region.

The phrase “all those who lived in Lydda and Sharon” does not necessarily mean every single person was saved, but it indicates that a significant number of people responded to the gospel. The wording “turned to the Lord” suggests true conversion, not just temporary amazement at the miracle.

Luke’s writing style in Acts frequently shows that signs and wonders accompany the spread of the gospel, reinforcing that God was actively confirming His message through supernatural means.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Acts 2:43 – “Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles.” (Miracles confirmed the gospel message.)
• John 20:30-31 – “Jesus performed many other signs… But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah.” (Miracles pointed people to faith in Christ.)
• Mark 16:20 – “Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it.” (God used miracles to validate His message.)
• Acts 11:21 – “The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.” (Similar language to Acts 9:35, showing widespread conversions.)

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. Our Changed Lives Can Lead Others to Christ – Just as people saw Aeneas healed and turned to Jesus, others can see God’s work in our lives and be drawn to Him.
2. Miracles Still Happen, but Salvation Is the Greatest Miracle – While God can heal physically, the greatest healing is when someone turns from sin and finds new life in Christ.
3. We Should Boldly Share What God Has Done – Peter was willing to step out in faith and pray for healing. We should also share our testimonies and trust God to use them for His glory.
4. God’s Work Is Not Limited to One Place – The gospel spreads in surprising ways. Sometimes God uses miracles, sometimes He uses everyday faithfulness, but in all cases, He is drawing people to Himself.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in how He desires all people to know Him. He could have simply healed Aeneas and left it at that, but He used the miracle to bring many to salvation. This shows that His concern is not just for physical well-being but for the eternal destiny of every person.

God’s love is also evident in how He meets people where they are. Those in Lydda and Sharon were not actively seeking Him, but through witnessing this miracle, they were confronted with the truth of His power and grace.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

• Jesus Is the Source of Healing – Peter made it clear in Acts 9:34 that “Jesus Christ heals you.” Every miracle points back to Christ.
• Jesus’ Ministry Was Filled with Miracles That Led to Faith – Many people followed Jesus after witnessing His healings (Matthew 4:23-25).
• Jesus Calls All People to Himself – The gospel was now spreading beyond just Jews in Jerusalem, fulfilling Jesus’ mission to reach the whole world (John 3:16, Acts 1:8).
• Jesus Offers the Ultimate Healing—Salvation – Physical healing is temporary, but turning to Christ brings eternal life (John 11:25-26).

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Have you ever witnessed or experienced God’s power in a way that strengthened your faith?
2. How does your life reflect the power of Christ in a way that could draw others to Him?
3. What can you do to be more intentional about sharing your faith with others?
4. Do you sometimes focus more on physical needs than spiritual ones? How can you shift your perspective to prioritize salvation?
5. How does knowing that God uses everyday people like Peter encourage you in your own walk with Christ?

This verse is a reminder that God’s power is not just for show—it is meant to lead people to Him. Whether through miracles, testimonies, or everyday acts of faith, He is always working to bring people into His kingdom.