This week we closely examined Acts 3:1-10 which details the healing of the lame man at the Beautiful Gate of the Temple in Jerusalem. Since archaeologists have yet to discover writings or inscriptions referring to a gate called “Beautiful,” we discussed the three most plausible theories for the location of the gate.
We also examined this section as a pericope (pronounced: pe-ri-ko-pee), a literary unit of thought, that was possibly a free-standing source Luke used in his history of the early church.
As we worked our way through the text, we observed certain ongoing activities intersecting in God’s perfect timing for the ministry of healing and the building of the Kingdom. God’s providence is just as active today as it was back then.
>> Click to read this week’s passage in KJV, HCSB, ESV, NIV: Acts 3:1-10 <<
Acts 3:1-10 ~ Open My Eyes, Lord.
The Beautiful Gate, Everyday Activities, God’s Providence
* Recorded: LIVE. This audio has been edited for class member privacy, time, and content.
Accompanying PowerPoint:
Additional Notes:
- Here is a link to the archaeologist who suggests the Double Gate as the Beautiful Gate:
http://www.ritmeyer.com/2010/12/14/the-beautiful-gate-of-the-temple/
. - Here is the book I read from during the lesson (about God’s providence):
Detours: The Unpredictable Path to Your Destiny by Dr. Tony Evans
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from LifeWay Publishers as part of their Book Review Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission (Amazon). Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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Usually when “God providentially” brings me to His time of witness is not when I have pre-planned an encounter. The question is are we sensitive and ready or are we so preoccupied with “our stuff” that we miss a God planned time of a “power given opportunity” to bring spiritual healing as the encounter directs….be on the alert our flesh/mind gets in the way all too often!