Charles Ellicott Commentary Acts 9:39

"And Peter arose and went with them. And when he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and showing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them." — Acts 9:39 (ASV)

All the widows stood by him weeping.—We have apparently the same organization of charity as that which prevailed in the Church at Jerusalem. The “widows” of the Church were the object of a special provision. (See Note on Acts 6:1.)

The “coats” were the close-fitting tunics worn next to the body, the “garments” the looser outer cloaks worn over them. (See Note on Matthew 5:40.) These were now exhibited by those who were mourning over the loss of their benefactress.

It is probable that the garments were for the use of men and boys, as well as women, and that the “widows” had been fellow-workers with her in making them. She was, as it were, at the head of a Sisterhood of Mercy.

Which Dorcas made.—More accurately, used to make.