Now there was in Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which, translated, means Dorcas. She was full of good works and acts of charity.
Luke calls her a disciple to teach us that Christianity requires doctrine; Christ is Master to all, not men alone. Her faith bore fruit in works of love, relieving the poor is not mere kindness but the sum of godly, perfect life itself.
AI summary
Tabitha showed her faith by her works, full of charity and never idle. Many mouth great things yet are barren in deeds, but she was a great doer, no great talker. Her hands devised liberal things; she made a business of doing good.
AI summary
Commenting on Acts 9:36-43
And it came to pass in those days,.... While Peter was in those parts, and particularly at Lydda, which was near: that she was sick and died; fell ill with some disorder, and died of it: whom, when they had washed; as was the manner of the Jews; and this they did, even though it was on a sabbath day: for so their canon runs...