Note 2 at Acts 3:4: There is a similar instance where Paul healed a lame man and in that situation there is also a special mention of Paul steadfastly beholding the man (Acts 14:8-10). It would appear that there was a special significance to these penetrating stares.

In the instance of Paul healing the lame man, Acts 14:9 shows that through Paul "steadfastly beholding" the man, Paul perceived that the man had faith to be healed. It is probable that Peter was doing the same thing here. It is certain that this man did have faith as can be seen by Peter's own explanation in verse 16.