All the people (laos; see comment at 2:47), who had known the man in his previous condition, become witnesses to the miracle's authenticity. More than that, they were filled with wonder (awe felt in the presence of divine activity; compare Lk 4:36) and amazement (the state of being lifted out of one's habitual life and thought by encountering the power of God; compare Lk 5:26; Haenchen 1971:200). But this is not saving faith. Only two times do Luke's summary statements imply that witnessing a miracle leads directly to faith (Acts 9:35, 42). Witnessing miracles may contribute to a person's embrace of faith, but it cannot produce faith (see Lk 16:31).

That is why God's Word must now be preached. It will interpret the extraordinary and call for a decision. By the Spirit's power this proclamation will work repentance and saving faith in its hearers.