The Book of Acts: To The Ends Of The Earth (Acts 9:32–43)

The Book of Acts

To the Ends of the Earth 

Lead/Founding Pastor: Ryan Rice 

Thursday, June 11th, 2026

Sunday, 14th, 2026 

The Passage

5 Marks of a Difference Maker 

Acts 9:32–43, ESV

The Healing of Aeneas

32 Now as Peter went here and there among them all, he came down also to the saints who lived at Lydda. 33 There he found a man named Aeneas, bedridden for eight years, who was paralyzed. 34 And Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you; rise and make your bed.” And immediately he rose. 35 And all the residents of Lydda and Sharon saw him, and they turned to the Lord.

Dorcas Restored to Life

36 Now there was in Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which, translated, means Dorcas.  She was full of good works and acts of charity. 37 In those days she became ill and died, and when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. 38 Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him, urging him, “Please come to us without delay.” 39 So Peter rose and went with them. And when he arrived, they took him to the upper room. All the widows stood beside him weeping and showing tunics and other garments that Dorcas made while she was with them. 40 But Peter put them all outside, and knelt down and prayed; and turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. 41 And he gave her his hand and raised her up. Then, calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 42 And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. 43 And he stayed in Joppa for many days with one Simon, a tanner.

Big Idea:  

God uses people who are willing to make a difference in the lives of others.

5 Marks of a Difference Maker 

1. Make Themselves Available | Acts 9:32–33
2. Take Initiative | Acts 9:33-34 
3. Serve People | Acts 9:36–39
4. Trust God | Acts 9:40-41
5. Change Lives | Acts 9:42–43