Silver, Gold, and the Power of Christ: Lessons from Acts 3

The Church—Acts 3:4-16

In Acts 3, we find ourselves drawn back into the powerful narrative of the early Church. As we dive into this text, we’re reminded of the stark contrast between what the apostles valued and what the modern Church sometimes emphasizes. Let’s reflect on that as we explore Acts 3:4-23.

A Story to Frame the Scene

Cornelius a Lapide tells of an encounter involving Thomas Aquinas and Pope Innocent II. As the story goes, Aquinas entered a room where the Pope sat at a table overflowing with gold and silver. The Pope remarked, “Thomas, the church can no longer say, ‘Silver and gold have I none.’” Aquinas responded with a sobering truth: “True, Holy Father. But neither can she now say, ‘Arise and walk.’”

This observation holds a mirror to the Church in every age. It’s easy to amass wealth and influence but far harder to retain the spiritual vitality that transforms lives. This sets the stage for Peter and John’s encounter with the lame man in Acts 3.

A Transformative Encounter

Let’s read Acts 3:4-6:

Peter, along with John, looked straight at him and said, “Look at us.” So he turned to them, expecting to get something from them. But Peter said, “I don’t have silver or gold, but what I do have, I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!”

The apostles didn’t apologize for what they lacked. Instead, they gave what they had: the life-changing power of Jesus Christ. How often do we, as individuals or churches, focus on what we don’t have? If only we had a bigger budget, more volunteers, or better resources, we think we could make a greater impact.

But the power of the Church has never been found in earthly resources. It is, and always will be, found in Jesus Christ.

The Power of Christ-Centered Ministry

This truth was illustrated for me recently. A long-time friend, burdened by life-threatening and family-altering challenges for over 20 years, was baptized last Sunday. His transformation wasn’t the result of flashy programs or a megachurch’s budget. It happened through the faithfulness of a small, country church focused on Christ.

Like the widow’s offering in Mark 12, this church gave not out of abundance but out of faith. Their focus wasn’t on impressing the world but on serving Christ. Their website’s homepage doesn’t feature polished videos or marketing slogans. Instead, it leads with the plan of salvation—a bold reminder that the gospel is at the heart of all they do.

Joy as a Testimony

Acts 3:7-8 captures the response of the healed man:

“Then, taking him by the right hand, he raised him up, and at once his feet and ankles became strong. So he jumped up and started to walk, and he entered the temple with them—walking, leaping, and praising God.”

This joy wasn’t quiet or contained. It was visible and contagious, drawing the attention of everyone in the temple. But here’s a question for us: Do our churches reflect this kind of joy? Or have we fallen into routines that feel more like duty than delight?

Erma Bombeck humorously described a church experience where a child’s joy was quickly stifled. How often do we unintentionally create environments where joy feels out of place? The lame man’s response reminds us that the joy of transformation is a testimony in itself, sparking awe and wonder in those who witness it.

Redirecting Focus to Christ

As the crowd marveled at the miracle, Peter addressed them, saying in Acts 3:12:

“Why do you stare at us, as though we had made him walk by our own power or godliness?”

Peter’s response redirects their focus to Christ, the true source of healing and transformation. This temptation to glorify individuals rather than God is as relevant today as it was then. Whether it’s elevating celebrity pastors or attributing a church’s success to human ingenuity, we must remember that no person can save or transform. Only Christ can.

Applying the Lessons

So, how do we apply these truths to our lives and churches today?

1. Redirect Praise: When someone compliments you, use it as an opportunity to point them to God. Say, “I’m grateful God gave me the opportunity to be a part of this.”

2. Examine Your Focus: Are there leaders or influencers you’ve elevated too high? Honor them, but ensure your ultimate focus is on Christ.

3. Stay Humble: Remember Peter’s example. Acknowledge that it’s God’s power, not your own, at work.

4. Celebrate the Source: When you see God working in someone, recognize His hand behind their gifts.

Faith vs. Control

A final thought: True faith doesn’t demand that God bend to our will; it surrenders to His. Some movements and people suggest that if you have enough faith, you can create your desired outcomes. But biblical faith magnifies God’s sovereignty, trusting Him whether the healing comes now or in eternity.

Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us:

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not my ways. This is the Lord’s declaration.”

Our faith isn’t about manipulating God but trusting Him. His ways are higher, His purposes are deeper, and His love is unchanging. Even when healing doesn’t come, we can rest in the assurance that He is working all things for good.

Closing Challenge

As we reflect on this passage, let’s take an honest look at our lives and our churches. Are we focusing on what we don’t have or on the One who is more than enough? Are we trusting in His sufficiency, or are we striving in our own strength?

The apostles’ boldness came from their intimate knowledge of Christ. They didn’t just preach about Him; they lived in His presence daily. Let’s follow their example, spending time with Jesus until His truth, love, and grace flow naturally from us. And when the moment comes, may we boldly declare, “What I have, I give you: in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!”