Character Study Of Dorcas (Tabitha) Series

CHARACTER STUDY OF DORCAS (TABITHA) – A WOMAN FULL OF GOOD WORKS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Acts 9:36-43

"At Joppa there was a certain disciple named Tabitha, which is translated Dorcas. This woman was full of good works and charitable deeds which she did." (Acts 9:36, NKJV)

Supporting Texts: Proverbs 31:20, Galatians 6:9-10, Matthew 25:35-36, James 2:14-17

INTRODUCTION

Dorcas, also known as Tabitha, was a remarkable woman in the early church. She lived in Joppa and was known for her acts of kindness and generosity. She devoted her life to serving others, especially widows and the needy. Her death brought great sorrow to the community, but God used Peter to raise her back to life, demonstrating that good works never go unnoticed in God's kingdom.

1. DORCAS WAS A FAITHFUL DISCIPLE OF CHRIST

a) She was a believer in Jesus Christ (Acts 9:36)

Dorcas was not just a kind woman; she was a disciple, meaning she followed Christ wholeheartedly.

b) Her faith was expressed through actions (James 2:17)

She demonstrated her faith by caring for others, showing that true faith must be active.

c) She lived a life of service (Galatians 6:9-10)

She was committed to doing good, tirelessly helping those in need.

d) She had a heart for the less privileged (Proverbs 31:20)

She extended her hands to the poor and the needy, just like the virtuous woman in Proverbs.

e) Biblical Example: Lydia, the seller of purple (Acts 16:14-15)

Like Dorcas, Lydia was a generous disciple who used her resources to serve the church.

2. DORCAS WAS FULL OF GOOD WORKS AND CHARITY

a) She was known for making garments for widows (Acts 9:39)

Dorcas used her skills in tailoring to provide clothing for those in need.

b) She was a blessing to her community (Matthew 5:16)

Her kindness and generosity shone like a light, glorifying God.

c) Her good works were a testimony of her faith (Titus 3:8)

Paul teaches that believers should be zealous for good works, just like Dorcas was.

d) She was a doer of the Word, not just a hearer (James 1:22)

She did not just listen to God’s teachings but applied them in her daily life.

e) Biblical Example: The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37)

Like the Good Samaritan, Dorcas cared for the needy with compassion and love.

3. DORCAS’ DEATH WAS A GREAT LOSS TO THE CHURCH

a) She fell sick and died (Acts 9:37)

Even the righteous can experience sickness and death, but God has the final say.

b) The widows mourned her deeply (Acts 9:39)

Her impact was so great that many grieved her loss and showed Peter the garments she made.

c) The church in Joppa sought divine intervention (Acts 9:38)

Knowing Peter was nearby, they sent for him, believing God could work a miracle.

d) The community recognised her contributions (Proverbs 10:7)

The memory of the righteous is blessed, and Dorcas’ legacy was cherished.

e) Biblical Example: The mourning for Stephen (Acts 8:2)

Just as Stephen’s death affected the early church, Dorcas’ passing was a great loss.

4. DORCAS EXPERIENCED GOD’S POWER THROUGH PETER

a) Peter was called to Joppa (Acts 9:38)

The believers knew that God worked miracles through His apostles.

b) Peter prayed before acting (Acts 9:40)

Before commanding Dorcas to rise, he sought God in prayer, showing dependence on divine power.

c) She was raised back to life (Acts 9:40-41)

Through Peter’s prayer, God performed a resurrection miracle.

d) Her restoration strengthened the faith of many (Acts 9:42)

The news of her resurrection spread, leading many to believe in the Lord.

e) Biblical Example: Jesus raising Jairus’ daughter (Mark 5:41-42)

Like Dorcas, Jairus’ daughter was brought back to life through prayer and faith.

5. DORCAS LEFT A LASTING LEGACY OF LOVE AND SERVICE

a) She was remembered for her kindness (Acts 9:39)

Even after her death, people testified about her good deeds.

b) She used her talents for God’s glory (1 Peter 4:10)

She was a good steward of her skills, using them to bless others.

c) Her life teaches the importance of practical Christianity (James 2:14-16)

Faith without works is dead, and Dorcas exemplified a living faith.

d) She reminds us that good works continue to speak even after we are gone (Hebrews 6:10)

God does not forget our labour of love, and neither does the world.

e) Biblical Example: Cornelius, who was known for his generosity (Acts 10:2-4)

Like Dorcas, Cornelius’ good deeds were remembered by God and the people.

STRENGTHS OF DORCAS

1. Generous and kind-hearted – She freely gave to those in need.

2. Faithful disciple of Christ – Her faith was evident in her works.

3. Diligent and hardworking – She used her skills to serve others.

4. Compassionate and selfless – She cared for widows and the poor.