The Word of God very carefully describes the condition of the man who was begging at the entrance to the temple and names the gate at which he lay. It is here that Peter and John, on their way to continue in prayer as faithful and godly Jews, meet him. But in asking an alms from them he is about to receive something far more wonderful.
1. The man who lay at the temple gate was born lame. He had never had the ability to walk or to do anything to help himself. He is a picture of the position of all men before God. But more particularly he is a picture of Israel and especially of the nation’s complete inability to keep the law. Can anyone be justified before God by keeping the law? Romans 3:___
2. The lame man was totally dependent on the kindness of others for his survival. The kindness and love of God have appeared to show men that their salvation is not gained by their works of righteousness. What has saved us? Titus 3:___
3. When the Lord Jesus was on earth He had come to a fig tree (also a picture of Israel) looking for fruit. What did He find, and what happened to the tree? Matthew 21:___
4. The only thing the lame man could do for himself was to call out to others for mercy and help. What does the Jew or Greek (Gentile) receive when he calls upon the Lord? Romans 10:___
5. The man calls out to Peter and John for help. Though they have no money, they do have something to give. What is to be our attitude as Christians towards helping others, whether or not they are believers? Galatians 6:___
NOVEMBER 1991