41 And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive.
41 He took her by the hand and helped her to her feet. Then he called for the believers, especially the widows, and presented her to them alive.
41 And he gave her his hand and raised her up. Then calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive.
41 He took her hand and helped her up. Then he called in the believers and widows, and presented her to them alive.
41 Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive.
41 He gave her his hand and helped her up. Then he called in the widows and all the believers, and he presented her to them alive.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Acts 9:41
Commentary on Acts 9:36-43
(Read Acts 9:36-43)
Many are full of good words, who are empty and barren in good works; but Tabitha was a great doer, no great talker. Christians who have not property to give in charity, may yet be able to do acts of charity, working with their hands, or walking with their feet, for the good of others. Those are certainly best praised whose own works praise them, whether the words of others do so or not. But such are ungrateful indeed, who have kindness shown them, and will not acknowledge it, by showing the kindness that is done them. While we live upon the fulness of Christ for our whole salvation, we should desire to be full of good works, for the honour of his name, and for the benefit of his saints. Such characters as Dorcas are useful where they dwell, as showing the excellency of the word of truth by their lives. How mean then the cares of the numerous females who seek no distinction but outward decoration, and who waste their lives in the trifling pursuits of dress and vanity! Power went along with the word, and Dorcas came to life. Thus in the raising of dead souls to spiritual life, the first sign of life is the opening of the eyes of the mind. Here we see that the Lord can make up every loss; that he overrules every event for the good of those who trust in him, and for the glory of his name.