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WHAT IS A MIRACLE?
FRIDAY, MARCH 20
2 Corinthians12:11-13
Hebrews 2:3-4
 
“Truly the signs of an apostle
were wrought among you …”
 
WHAT IS A MIRACLE?
 
Before delving deeper into 2 Corinthians 12:11-13, it is beneficial to first understand what a miracle, as taught in the Holy Scriptures, is.
 
Hebrews 2:3-4 teaches us three aspects of a true miracle. First, the terms “wonders” (terasi) and “miracles” (dunamesi, i.e. acts of power and might) teach us that a true miracle involves supernatural power which inspires awe and wonder. Second, the expressions “God also bearing them witness” and “gifts of the Holy Ghost” teach us that a true miracle must be done by God. On the other hand, the Scriptures describe the supernatural acts of Satan as “lying wonders” (2 Thess 2:9). Third, the terms “signs” (sēmeion), “confirmed” and “bearing witness” teach us that it is an event (sign) which points to implications far greater than the event itself. As such, there is a spiritual lesson behind every miracle, and it is used to confirm and authenticate the message of God’s spokesman.
 
There are three main epochs of miracles in biblical history. These miracles served a specific purpose. The first period was in the time of the Exodus. The miracles were done so that both the Egyptians and the children of Israel might know that the LORD is the one living and true God (see Exod 8:10; 14:4; 16:12). The second epoch came during the time of Elijah and Elisha. The people then had married the worship of the LORD with the false gods of the nations such as Baalim and Ashtaroth. Once again, miracles were done to show that the LORD is the one living and true God for the restoration of pure worship (1 Kings 18:36-40). The third epoch of miracles was during the earthly ministry of Christ and the Apostles. These were done that “ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name” (John 20:30-31).
 
With the completion of the biblical canon, these signs and wonders have ceased (1 Cor 13:8-13). We now have the more sure Word of Prophecy (2 Pet 1:19) to be our guide.
 
THOUGHT: How should I respond rightly to the miracles in the Bible?
PRAYER: Father, teach me to love the more sure Word of Prophecy.

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