The details of Peter’s miracles in Lydda serve to explain how he came to be in Joppa.1 Peter’s movement to Joppa will serve to confirm that his subsequent ministry to the Gentile Cornelius is fully in keeping with God’s plan.2
It is possible that the mention of Lydda and Joppa could serve as a confirmation that the good news of Jesus Christ is busy conquering the Promised Land. In Acts 9:1–19, there was testimony that the area to the far north of Jerusalem had Christian believers. Now, there is evidence that the territory which was traditionally allotted to Dan also has believers. In essence, there is no region where the gospel does not have power. 3
31 So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria had peace and was being built up. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it multiplied.