Acts 9:36-43 – Christ’s Lordship Over Death

We read of this disciple Tabitha (Roe/Gazelle in Aramaic, or Dorcas in Greek) who apparently was an example, and perhaps some she had helped to clothe were among the mourners. The first thing we notice is that believers are not free from the miseries of this life (1 Timothy 5:23; 2 Timothy 4:20).

After seeking the mind of the Lord, Peter was given infallible revelation from God that He would heal. This explains Peter’s confident announcement (v.40). It was a sample of infallible prophetic utterance, showing him to be an apostle of the Lord.

Although only at the Last Day will the full benefits Christ has purchased for His people be bestowed on the physical body of believers when we are raised with a irreversibly glorified body suited to eternal life, this temporary reversal of one of the effects of the curse of God upon sin points to Christ as the resurrection and the life and the Saviour of sinners.

We also see the amazing plan of God. Peter was in the locality at just the right time (v. 38).

Questions
1. What is God’s providence?
2. Why is death called “the last enemy” (1 Corinthians 15:26)?

Prayer Points
1. Give thanks for the resurrection to come.
2. Use prayer points from your congregation.
3. Pray for family matters.