Introduction
Uncover the heart of service and faith in this inspiring Tabitha Character Bible Study Lesson—her story still speaks to us today!
Have you ever met someone whose kindness left a lasting impact? Someone whose love and generosity made others feel seen, valued, and cared for?
Tabitha, also known as Dorcas, was that kind of woman. She wasn’t a prophet or a warrior, yet the Bible records her legacy because of how she lived—serving others with love and generosity.
Tabitha’s story reminds us that a life of faith is not just about what we believe, but how we live it out daily.
She wasn’t famous or powerful in the world’s eyes, but she was deeply loved and respected in her community because of her servant’s heart. And when she died, the people she had helped mourned her deeply, showing just how much one person’s kindness can mean.
This Bible study lesson will explore four key Bible passages about Tabitha, what they teach us about faith in action, and how we can follow her example in our own lives.
In this Tabitha Bible character devotion, you’ll find a summary of her story, important passages and the lessons in it, and 10 Bible study & personal reflection questions.
It comes with a free printable! Just scroll till the end and you can download your printable copy (including additional study and reflection questions, and journaling worksheets!).
Tabitha’s Story Summary
Her story is found in Acts 9:36-42. Tabitha is also known as Dorcas.
She lived in Joppa and was known for her acts of kindness and charity, especially making clothing for widows and those in need.
When she died, the believers in Joppa were heartbroken and sent for Peter, hoping for a miracle. Peter came, prayed, and God raised Tabitha back to life!
Her resurrection led many to believe in Jesus, showing that even a simple life of service can have a powerful impact for God’s kingdom.
Tabitha’s life challenges us to consider how we are using our gifts to serve others.
She reminds us that small acts of kindness can leave a big impact. Her story also shows God’s power to bring life where there was once death—not just physically, but in our spiritual and emotional lives as well.
(A quick reminder… get your free printable Tabitha character Bible study lesson at the end of this blog!).
Important Bible Passages and Their Lessons
1. Acts 9:36: This verse tells us that Tabitha was not just a believer, but an active disciple. She didn’t just claim to follow Jesus; she lived it out daily by serving those in need. Her faith was clear in her actions, showing us that true faith naturally leads to good works.
2. Acts 9:39: This passage highlights how deeply Tabitha’s kindness impacted her community. The widows she helped didn’t just grieve her loss—they brought physical evidence of her generosity. This challenges us to consider: if we were suddenly gone, would our kindness leave a visible mark on the lives of others?
3. Acts 9:40: Here, we see God’s power at work through Peter’s prayer. This reminds us that God is still in the business of bringing life and restoration, whether in a miraculous healing or through reviving hope in difficult situations.
4. Acts 9:42: Tabitha’s resurrection wasn’t just about her—it led to many people coming to faith in Jesus. Her life and even her death were used by God for His glory. This reminds us that our lives, no matter how ordinary they seem, can have a far-reaching impact when surrendered to God.
Study and Reflection on Tabitha’s Story
Studying the story of Tabitha helps us see how God uses acts of kindness and service to reflect His love. Her generosity and faith made a lasting impact on those around her.
Tabitha’s story challenges us to consider how we can use our gifts to serve others and live out our faith in a way that brings glory to God.
Reflection questions help us apply the lessons of Tabitha’s story to our personal journey. They invite us to examine our own faith, actions, and attitudes in light of what we’ve learned.
Reflecting ensures that the truths we uncover don’t just remain ideas, but become part of how we live out our faith daily.
Don’t forget to grab your free printable Bible study lesson, with summaries, cheat sheets, Bible notes, and study and reflection questions. Just click on the link at the end of the blog!
Read more women of the Bible studies here!
5 Bible Study Questions
- How is Tabitha described in Acts 9:36? What does this teach us about her character?
- What do the widows’ actions in Acts 9:39 reveal about Tabitha’s impact on others?
- Why do you think Peter asked everyone to leave the room before praying for Tabitha? (Acts 9:40)
- How did Tabitha’s resurrection affect the people of Joppa? (Acts 9:42)
- What does Tabitha’s story teach us about faith in action?
5 Personal Reflection Questions
- If someone were to describe your life in one sentence like Acts 9:36, what would they say?
- What gifts or skills do you have that you can use to serve others?
- Is there a group of people (like the widows in Tabitha’s story) that God is calling you to help?
- Have you ever experienced God bringing new life into a situation that seemed hopeless?
- How can you be more intentional about living out your faith through acts of love and kindness?
We learn from Tabitha that even minor acts of kindness can have a significant impact.
When we live with a servant’s heart, God can use us in ways beyond what we can imagine.
What (small) act of kindness can you do today to reflect Christ’s love?
DOWNLOAD YOUR TABITHA (DORCAS) BIBLE CHARACTER STUDY LESSON HERE.
This FREE digital product has a Summary, Key Scriptures with their Meaning, Cheat Sheet, Bible Study Notes, 10 Bible Study Questions, 10 Reflection Questions, 1 x Christian Women resources Overview. It’s completely free: just enter “0” at checkout!
