King James Version
What Does Acts 3:12 Mean?
“And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk?”
Context
10
And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him.
11
And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly wondering.
12
And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk?
13
The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go.
14
But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you;
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(12) **Why look ye so earnestly on us?**—The verb is the same as that in Acts 3:4. The pronoun stands emphatically at the beginning of the verse—*Why is it on us that ye gaze?*
**As though by our own. . . . holiness. . . .**—Better, *purity, *or *devotion.* The words refer to what may be called the popular theory of miracles, that if a man were devout, *i.e., *“a worshipper of God,” God would hear him (John 9:31). That theory might be true in itself generally, but the Apostle disclaims it in this special instance. No purity of his own would have availed, but for the Name, *i.e., *the power, of Jesus of Nazareth.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Acts. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Acts 3:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Acts 3:12
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge