From Death to Life (Acts 9:32-43)

Series: The Birth of the Church (Acts)Preacher: Ps. Gabriel WongDate: 21st September 2025Passage: Acts 9:32-43Sermon Summary:What’s your reaction when you come across accounts of healing in Scripture, such as Aeneas who was healed from his paralysis, or Dorcas who was risen from the dead? Perhaps it’s yearning or longing for an injury to be healed, or relief for a friend or family member battling disease. Maybe it’s skepticism, because you prayed once—but God didn’t seem to listen or answer, so you’re left wondering if He even heals anymore.  Whatever your response, it can be hard to remember that the Bible is a collection of real-life accounts that happened, of people who existed and did the things written about them 2,000 years ago. We can sometimes approach Scripture the way we approach fairy-tales, like it’s too good to be true—but we know God does listen, and He does heal! Jackie and Florence’s testimonies point to the truth of that.  More importantly, while God does choose to heal physically, we have to remember that physical healing is not the end-all and be–all of all things. Yes, Aeneas was healed of his paralysis. Yes, Dorcas was risen from the dead. But they passed away eventually, as all must do on this side of heaven. What really matters, what really lasts, is the way that all the residents of Lydda and Sharon witnessed Aeneas’ healing and turned to God. (Acts 9:35) The way that Dorcas’ resurrection became known throughout Joppa, so that many believed in the Lord. (v.42) We know that miracles serve the message.The signs and wonders that Jesus and His apostles performed point to the very reality of who He is, what His Kingdom is like. Historically, the Church has not done a good job at tackling the issue of miracles and healing, but let us say this: the physical restoration of healing, of wholeness, points to a day where every tear will be wiped away. (Rev. 21:4) Come to Jesus for healing,friends—for He is faithful and mighty to save. (Zeph. 3:17)