12 The apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders among the people. And all the believers used to meet together in Solomon's Colonnade.
13 No one else dared join them, even though they were highly regarded by the people.
14 Nevertheless, more and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number.
15 As a result, people brought the sick into the streets and laid them on beds and mats so that at least Peter's shadow might fall on some of them as he passed by.
16 Crowds gathered also from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing their sick and those tormented by evil spirits, and all of them were healed.
It was the hands of the apostles that performed the many sings and wonders. Thus far, no one else had this ability (since Jesus.) It was evident that the authority of the apostles was greatly strengthened by these miracles being performed only by their hands, among the people with "one mind." Solomon's portico or colonnade was a common meeting place of Christians in Jerusalem (3:11.)
How interesting that none of the "rest" dared to be joined to the apostles. It is uncertain who the "rest" was referring to. It is obvious that what happened to Ananias & Sapphira made some nervous, but, in general it helped the church and its cause: since the people held them in high esteem.
It is the first reference to women becoming Christians, although we are sure many had joined.
It must have been a sight to have sick people line the pathway of Peter in order to be healed. Regardless of how it was done, the sick and afflicted were all being healed. Keeping in mind that every miracle was done in "the name of Jesus."
What did these miraculous healings do for the early church?
1. Attracted new believers. 2. confirmed the truth of the apostles' teachings. 3. Demonstrated theat the power of the messiah who had bene crucified and risen was now with his followers.
Just a matter of time now until the Sanhedrin takes action!
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