Some notes from the Life Application Study Bible about verses 1-6
Notes for 3:1
The Jews observed three times of prayer — morning (9:00 a.m.), afternoon (3:00 p.m.), and evening (sunset). At these times devout Jews and Gentiles who believed in God often went to the temple to pray. Peter and John were going to the temple in the afternoon (3:00 p.m.)
Notes for 3:2
The gate called Beautiful was an entrance to the temple, not to the city. It was one of the favored entrances, and many people passed through it on their way to worship. The crippled man was begging where he would be seen by the most people.
3:2 Giving money to beggars was considered praiseworthy in the Jewish religion. So the beggar wisely placed himself where pious people might see him on their way to worship at the temple.
Notes for 3:5,6
The crippled man asked for money, but Peter gave him something much better — the use of his legs. We often ask God to solve a small problem, but he wants to give us a whole new life and help for all our problems. When we ask God for help, he may say, "I've got something even better for you." Ask God for what you want, but don't be surprised when he gives you what you really need.
Heart and Soul,
BAG
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