Albert Barnes Commentary Acts 9:38

"And as Lydda was nigh unto Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men unto him, entreating him, Delay not to come on unto us." — Acts 9:38 (ASV)

Was nigh to Joppa. It was about six miles.

They sent unto him, etc. Why they sent is not affirmed. It is probable that they desired his presence to comfort and sustain them in their affliction. It is certainly possible that they expected he would restore her to life; but as this is not mentioned—as the apostles had not yet raised anyone from the dead—as even Stephen had not been restored to life—we have no basis for assuming or supposing that they had formed any such expectation.