Introduction: Give some details about the situation at the time when Peter goes to Lydda and Joppa. Talk about the size of the Christian church as well as the Jewish presuppositions that many people had and how this would impact the way they think about Gentile mission.
The context and miracles of Peter
Explain: How do the miracles of Peter point to the miracles of Jesus?
Explain: What do the miracles of Peter affirm about his apostolic office and the message which he was proclaiming?
Explain: How do the miracles of Peter confirm that his actions are in keeping with the plans and aims of Jesus Christ?
Apply: What does the fact that Peter is an apostle mean regarding the New Testament letters which he has written/influenced?
Apply: Are there apostles today whom Jesus has given authority to work miracles?
The town of Joppa
Explain: How does Luke draw attention to Joppa?
Explain: How does the town of Joppa link with the tribe of Dan? What might the Holy Spirit be confirming to God’s people through this link?
Explain: How does the town of Joppa link with Jonah? What is the Holy Spirit confirming to God’s people through this link?
Explain/Apply: How does cross cultural mission serve to affirm the truths of the Gospel?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank you for the continued work of Christ your Son. Thank you that he came to work salvation for us and that he continues day by day to ensure that his people are gathered to be part of his church. Thank you that we can be part of this people. Like everyone else, we know we are deserving of judgment and not of grace. There is nothing within us to make us better than others, nothing we have done to merit your love. We marvel at the fact that you have chosen us and we praise you for those whom you have sent to teach us your truth so that we might hear of your Son.
As we thank you for the preachers you have sent to us, we ask that you would raise up more harvesters for the harvest fields and provide the resources which are needed to support them. We know that these resources are available in your church; you give generously to us all, beyond what we need. Change our priorities and desires Lord, that we might be all the more eager to support the ministry of your Word. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
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.