A Lame Man Leaping
What does it mean to be saved? Acts chapter 3 gives us a vivid picture. Peter and John, on their way to the temple for prayer, encounter a man who had been lame from birth. Every day he sat at the gate, begging for coins, powerless to change his condition.
Peter’s words are striking: “I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” (Acts 3:6). And immediately, this man who had never taken a step stood, leapt, and entered the temple—walking and leaping and praising God.
This healing isn’t just a miracle of compassion. It’s a sign of the gospel itself. Spiritually, we are all like that beggar—broken, powerless, unable to walk with God on our own. Religion can’t fix us. Good works can’t fix us. Only Christ can.
Peter explains this miracle to the crowd: “You killed the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead” (Acts 3:15). It’s a sobering reality.
We are guilty of sin and rebellion against the very One who gives us life. Yet the good news is this: God raised Jesus from the dead, and through Him offers forgiveness and refreshing. “Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out” (Acts 3:19).
That’s the heart of the gospel:
- We are helpless in sin.
- Christ died and rose again to save us.
- Repentance and faith bring forgiveness, freedom, and joy.
Like the healed man, salvation moves us to leap and praise God. It’s not drudgery—it’s delight. It’s the life we were created to live.
At Central Presbyterian, that’s our prayer for you: that you would see your need, hear the invitation of God’s grace, and walk in the joy of new life in Christ.
We’d love for you to join us this Sunday as we gather for worship in Irvine. No matter your background, no matter your past, you are welcome here. Come hear good news: your sins can be blotted out, and times of refreshing can be yours in Christ!
