Albert Barnes Commentary Acts 9:42

"And it became known throughout all Joppa: and many believed on the Lord." — Acts 9:42 (ASV)

And many believed, etc. A similar effect followed when Jesus raised up Lazarus. See John 12:11.

This was the first miracle of this kind that was performed by the apostles. The effect was that many believed. It was not merely a work of benevolence in restoring to life one who contributed largely to the comfort of the poor, but it was used as a means of extending and establishing, as it was designed doubtless to do, the kingdom of the Saviour.