Acts 3:6
Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.
Acts 3:6 (KJV)
Context
Peter and John encountered a man lame from birth who was carried daily to the temple gate to beg for alms. As the man asked them for money, Peter responded by declaring that he had no material possessions to give but offered him something far greater through the power of Jesus Christ.
Meaning
Peter’s statement, “Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee,” acknowledges that he lacks material wealth to provide for the beggar’s financial needs. However, he emphasizes that he possesses something far more valuable—the authority and power that comes from Jesus Christ. The phrase “such as I have” points to the spiritual authority and power given to the apostles by Christ, not to any personal ability or merit.
Peter attributes the authority and power to heal the beggar to Jesus Christ of Nazareth. By mentioning His name, Peter is invoking the power and authority of Jesus, who performed miraculous acts during His earthly ministry. The name identifies Jesus as the Messiah from Nazareth, the one who was crucified and risen. Peter’s command, “Rise up and walk,” is a direct, authoritative act of healing. The immediate result, recorded in Acts 3:7, is that Peter took the man by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. This confirms the miracle was instantaneous and complete.
Biblical connections
The healing is performed explicitly “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth,” emphasizing that the power and authority for the miracle come not from Peter himself but from Jesus. The contrast between earthly wealth and spiritual power shows that the apostles offered what was of greater value: healing and wholeness through faith in Jesus’ name.
Application
The Power of Jesus’ Name: Peter’s words emphasize the authority and power vested in the name of Jesus Christ. Believers can call upon His name in faith, expecting His power to bring about transformation and healing.
Our True Wealth: Peter’s acknowledgment that he lacked silver and gold highlights the temporal nature of material possessions. While wealth may have its place, it is not the ultimate source of value or significance. The apostles’ true wealth lay in their relationship with Jesus and the authority they received from Him.
Sharing What We Have: Peter’s statement teaches us the importance of sharing what we have been given, even if it may seem insignificant. Peter gave what he had—faith in Jesus and the power of His name—and that brought about a life-changing transformation for the beggar.
Faith in Action: The healing of the beggar demonstrates the power of faith in action. Peter’s faith in Jesus’ name and his willingness to speak it out resulted in a miraculous healing. This encourages believers to step out in faith and trust in the power of Jesus’ name to bring about transformation in their lives and the lives of others.
Reflection
Peter and John did not have money to give, as they had no personal wealth; what they had was held in common for the church and its poor. Yet they gave what was infinitely more valuable. This challenges us to consider what we hold that can truly meet the deepest needs of others. The same Jesus who healed the lame man is present with His followers today, and His name still carries authority to bring wholeness and hope.
