Acts 9:38

And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring [him] that he would not delay to come to them.

And {G1161} forasmuch as {G5607} Lydda {G3069} was nigh {G1451} to Joppa {G2445}, and the disciples {G3101} had heard {G191} that {G3754} Peter {G4074} was {G2076} there {G1722}{G846}, they sent {G649} unto {G4314} him {G846} two {G1417} men {G435}, desiring {G3870} him that he would {G3635} not {G3361} delay {G3635} to come {G1330} to {G2193} them {G846}.

Lud is near Yafo, and the talmidim had heard that Kefa was there, so they sent two men to him and urged him, “Please come to us without delay.”

Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples heard that Peter was there and sent two men to urge him, “Come to us without delay.”

And as Lydda was nigh unto Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men unto him, entreating him, Delay not to come on unto us.

Acts 9:38 describes a pivotal moment in the early church, setting the stage for one of Peter’s significant miracles. This verse highlights the interconnectedness of the growing Christian communities and the urgent need for apostolic intervention.

Context

Prior to this verse, the Apostle Peter had been ministering in Lydda, where he miraculously healed Aeneas, a man paralyzed for eight years. News of this healing, and the broader spread of the Gospel, had reached the nearby coastal city of Joppa. Joppa was a significant port city, and it was here that a beloved disciple named Dorcas (also known as Tabitha) had tragically died. The disciples in Joppa, knowing that Peter was in Lydda—a short distance away—immediately recognized the urgent need for his presence. Their swift action in sending two men underscores the gravity of their situation, which is fully revealed in the subsequent verses concerning the resurrection of Dorcas.

Key Themes

  • Urgency and Need: The phrase "desiring him that he would not delay" conveys a profound sense of urgency. The disciples in Joppa faced a crisis that they believed only Peter's apostolic authority and spiritual gifts could address. This reflects the practical needs of the early church and their reliance on God's power working through His chosen instruments.
  • Interconnectedness of the Early Church: The rapid communication between Lydda and Joppa, and the disciples' knowledge of Peter's whereabouts, illustrate the close-knit nature of the burgeoning Christian communities. Believers supported each other, sharing news and seeking help across geographical distances.
  • Apostolic Influence and Authority: Peter's reputation as a leader and miracle-worker, established through his ministry and the power given to him by Christ (see Matthew 16:19), meant his presence was highly sought after in times of great need. This verse subtly emphasizes the vital role of the apostles in guiding and empowering the early believers.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek phrase translated "desiring him that he would not delay" (παρακαλοῦντες μὴ ὀκνῆσαι διελθεῖν ἕως αὐτῶν, parakalountes mē oknesai dielthen heos autōn) carries a strong connotation of earnest pleading and urgency. The word oknesai specifically means "to hesitate" or "to delay," reinforcing the disciples' plea for immediate action. This isn't a casual invitation but a fervent request born out of desperation.

Practical Application

Acts 9:38 offers several timeless lessons for believers today:

  • Responding to Crisis: Just as the disciples in Joppa acted decisively in their time of need, we are called to be responsive to the crises and urgent needs within our communities and the wider body of Christ.
  • Seeking Spiritual Counsel: The disciples knew where to find help and whom to ask. This highlights the importance of seeking wise counsel and spiritual support from mature believers and leaders when facing difficult situations.
  • God's Timeliness: The verse shows God's perfect timing in having Peter nearby. It reminds us that God often positions His servants and resources strategically to meet needs, demonstrating His ongoing care for His people. Our responsibility is to be attentive and responsive to His leading.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Acts 9:36

    ¶ Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.

  • Acts 9:32

    ¶ And it came to pass, as Peter passed throughout all [quarters], he came down also to the saints which dwelt at Lydda.

  • Acts 11:26

    And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

  • 2 Kings 4:28

    Then she said, Did I desire a son of my lord? did I not say, Do not deceive me?

  • 2 Kings 4:30

    And the mother of the child said, [As] the LORD liveth, and [as] thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And he arose, and followed her.

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