A WOMAN FULL OF GOOD WORKS
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Acts 9:36-43
"Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did." - Acts 9:36
Supporting Texts: Proverbs 31:20–31, Matthew 5:16, Hebrews 6:10, Galatians 6:9, Ruth 2:11–12
INTRODUCTION:
In every generation, God raises women who make impact—not just by what they say, but by what they do. Dorcas was one such woman. The Bible describes her as “full of good works,” a woman known for compassion, generosity, and practical Christianity.
Her life reminds us that true greatness in the Kingdom of God is measured by service. She didn’t preach with a microphone, but her sewing needle and acts of kindness preached louder than words. Her legacy was so powerful that when she died, the church cried out for divine intervention.
This message honours women of virtue and calls us all to live lives that are impactful, generous, and remembered for good.
1. GODLY WOMEN LEAD BY EXAMPLE
a) Dorcas was a disciple, not just a church-goer.
She followed Christ actively and faithfully (Acts 9:36).
b) Her life was defined by good works.
She wasn’t part-time in goodness—she was full of good works.
c) She served God by serving people.
Ministry is not always public—it can be personal and practical.
d) Her hands were busy with love.
She used her skills to bless others, especially widows.
Biblical Example: Ruth’s loyalty and service to Naomi brought divine favour (Ruth 1:16–17).
2. THE POWER OF A GOOD NAME
a) Dorcas was known by her works, not by her wealth.
Her reputation was her witness (Proverbs 22:1).
b) She earned respect through service, not status.
She didn’t need a title to be relevant.
c) Her character outlived her circumstances.
Even in death, her impact was still speaking.
d) A good name leaves a godly legacy.
What will people say when your name is mentioned?
Biblical Example: The Shunammite woman was remembered as “that great woman” (2 Kings 4:8).
3. YOUR GOOD WORKS CAN SPEAK FOR YOU
a) When Dorcas died, her works cried louder than words.
The widows displayed the garments she made (Acts 9:39).
b) She wasn’t forgotten because she left impact behind.
A life of love leaves lasting memories.
c) What you do for others is what God uses to bless you.
Her resurrection was connected to her generosity.
d) Your works can attract divine attention.
Heaven remembers acts of mercy (Hebrews 6:10).
Biblical Example: Cornelius’s prayers and alms came up before God (Acts 10:1–4).
4. GOD HONOURS THOSE WHO SERVE OTHERS
a) Peter responded because the people showed what she had done.
Her works provoked a miracle.
b) A life of service moves the heart of God and man.
Men rise for those who lifted others.
c) She became a channel for the display of God’s power.
God turned sorrow into celebration because of her lifestyle.
d) Miracles follow a life of service and compassion.
Her story ended in glory, not in the grave.
Biblical Example: The centurion’s servant was healed because of his generosity (Luke 7:1–5).
5. LIVE A LIFE THAT CANNOT BE IGNORED
a) Do not live for applause—live for impact.
Make your life count beyond titles and possessions.
b) Good works are seeds—what you sow, you’ll reap.
Sow kindness, reap favour.
c) Serve even when no one is watching—God is.
Your unseen efforts will bring open rewards.
d) Be remembered for love, sacrifice, and service.
Let heaven and earth remember your name for good.
Biblical Example: Abigail was known for her wisdom and peacemaking (1 Samuel 25:18–35).
CONCLUSION:
Dorcas was a woman of grace, compassion, and impact. Her story teaches us that a life lived for others is never wasted. You don’t need a pulpit to minister—just a willing heart and open hands. Her good works raised a testimony that even the grave could not silence.
Let every woman and man hearing this today be challenged to live a life of purpose, generosity, and service that speaks even when they are silent.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, help me to be full of good works, like Dorcas.
2. Let my life leave a godly legacy behind.
3. Deliver me from selfishness; use me to bless others.
4. Cause my acts of kindness to open doors of favour.
5. Father, raise women of virtue in our generation.
