How did the apostles perform "many signs and wonders" among the people? Setting the Scene - Luke records: “The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people” (Acts 5:12). - Jerusalem’s fledgling church has just prayed for boldness after threats (Acts 4:29–31). - Filled again with the Holy Spirit, they step out in public ministry at Solomon’s Colonnade, a covered porch on the Temple Mount—open, visible, and impossible to ignore. Empowered by the Holy Spirit - Jesus’ promise: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you” (Acts 1:8). - Fulfillment at Pentecost: “They were all filled with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:4). - The Spirit is the power-source; the apostles are the vessels. • Not human skill or charisma • Not borrowed pagan techniques • Solely Spirit-given ability operating through obedient servants Authority in the Name of Jesus - Peter to the lame man: “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk!” (Acts 3:6). - Jesus had authorized them: “These signs will accompany those who believe: In My name they will drive out demons... they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will be well” (Mark 16:17-18). - The name of Jesus is not a magical formula; it is the delegated authority of the risen Lord. The Apostolic Pattern 1. Proclamation of the gospel first (Acts 2:14-36; 3:12-26). 2. Prayerful dependence—note the petition in Acts 4:29-30 for signs to accompany the word. 3. Unity of heart: “All the believers were one in heart and mind” (Acts 4:32). 4. Laying on of hands or spoken command when led by the Spirit (Acts 9:17-18; 14:9-10). 5. Immediate public witness, turning all credit to God (Acts 3:12-13). Purpose of the Signs and Wonders - Validation: God attested the gospel message “by signs and wonders and various miracles” (Hebrews 2:4). - Compassion: Meeting physical and spiritual needs (Acts 9:36-41). - Evangelism: “More and more believers were brought to the Lord” (Acts 5:14). - Judgment and purity within the church (e.g., Ananias and Sapphira, Acts 5:1-11). Additional Biblical Witness - Jesus’ forecast: “Whoever believes in Me will also do the works that I am doing” (John 14:12). - Paul’s ministry mirrored Peter’s: healing handkerchiefs (Acts 19:11-12), raising the dead (Acts 20:9-12). - The apostles’ signs were foundational marks of true apostleship (2 Corinthians 12:12). Practical Takeaways for Believers Today - The same Holy Spirit indwells every believer (Romans 8:11). - God still answers prayer, heals, and intervenes sovereignly; nothing in Scripture suggests cessation of His ability. - Yet the apostles held a unique foundational role (Ephesians 2:20). Their miracles authenticated the once-for-all gospel now inscripturated. - Our calling: • Proclaim the Word faithfully. • Pray boldly for God to glorify His Son. • Trust the Spirit to work as He wills, whether through wonders, providence, or sustaining grace. |
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