The first 12 chapters of the Acts of the Apostles emphasize Peter’s importance in the early Christian community. On Pentecost in Acts 2, Peter is the first to preach the good news that Jesus is risen and proclaim him Lord and Messiah publicly.
In Acts 2-5, Luke makes a parallel between Jesus’ early ministry and that of his followers. Jesus preached God’s nearness, healed the sick, and cast out ungodly spirits.
Sunday’s first reading shows the apostles boldly teaching in Solomon’s Portico, a revered spot in the Temple courtyard, perhaps a Christian meeting place. People bring their sick to be cured at the apostles’ hands. Luke wants us to recognize the early Church continues Jesus’ ministry. Acts tells the story of the disciples Jesus sent forth and the signs and wonders they do in the power of the Spirit.
Many become Jesus’ followers.
Through the hands of the apostles, many signs and wonders occurred among the people. By mutual agreement they used to meet in Solomon’s Portico. No one else dared to join them, despite the fact that the people held them in great esteem. Nevertheless more and more believers, men and women in great numbers, were continually added to the Lord.
The people carried sick people into the streets and laid them on cots and mattresses, so that when Peter passed by at least his shadow might fall on one or another of them. Crowds from the towns around Jerusalem would gather, too, bringing their sick and those who were troubled by unclean spirits, all of whom were cured.
Acts 5.12-16
- What signs and wonders does the Holy Spirit work among us and through us today?
- How does faith heal? How has faith healed you?
- What demonstrates that your community of faith continues Jesus’ mission?