In the speech that follows (3:11–26), Peter makes a number of significant points that pave the way for the understanding of the growth of the early Christian movement. First, Peter emphasizes that the healing is not accomplished by their “power or godliness” (3:12); instead, it is Jesus who is working through them. It is the mighty acts of the risen Lord that are recorded in this narrative, not accounts of the mighty deeds of the apostles. Within this speech alone, Jesus is called “his [God’s] servant” (3:13, 26), “the Holy and Righteous One” (3:14), “the author of life” (3:15), “Messiah” (3:18, 20), “the Lord” (3:19), and “prophet” (3:22). The unique role of the risen Jesus in salvation history is thus clearly noted.

Second, Peter firmly situates this event within an age that witnesses …