In what ways can witnessing Jesus' works strengthen our faith today? Setting the Scene: John 12:18 in Context “ That is also why the crowd went out to meet Him, because they heard that He had performed this sign.” (John 12:18) The “sign” was the raising of Lazarus (John 11:43-44). The people had just seen irrefutable proof that Jesus holds power over life and death, so they rushed to welcome Him into Jerusalem. Their response shows how seeing the works of Christ ignites faith. Seeing Leads to Believing—Then and Now • John purposely records miracles so we, centuries later, can “believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God” (John 20:30-31). • Faith does not rest on myth or legend; it rests on eyewitness testimony preserved without error in Scripture (2 Peter 1:16). • What the crowds saw physically, we see through the written Word—“Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17). How Observing Jesus’ Works Builds Confidence in His Identity 1. Proves His deity • Only God can command the dead (John 11:43). • Only God can still storms (Mark 4:39) and forgive sins (Mark 2:5-7). 2. Confirms His compassion • “Jesus wept” with the mourners (John 11:35). • Miracles are not mere displays of power but expressions of love (Matthew 14:14). 3. Validates His promises • If He can raise Lazarus, He can raise all who believe (John 5:28-29). • If He multiplies loaves, He can meet every need (Philippians 4:19). Fuel for Daily Trust and Obedience • Remembering past works of God strengthens us in present trials (Psalm 77:11-14). • Testimonies of answered prayer echo biblical miracles and remind us that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8). • Confidence in His power emboldens practical obedience—sharing the gospel, sacrificial giving, loving enemies—because nothing is impossible for Him (Luke 1:37). Ways to “Witness” His Works Today • Immerse yourself in the Gospels, reading the miracle narratives aloud; let Scripture paint vivid scenes. • Keep a journal of personal and communal answers to prayer—modern-day evidences of His active hand. • Share testimonies during fellowship; hearing how Christ changes lives builds collective faith (Revelation 12:11). • Observe creation through the lens of Colossians 1:16-17: every sunrise, heartbeat, and atom is sustained by Jesus’ ongoing work. • Serve in ministries where transformation is visible—recovery programs, mission trips, local outreach—so you can watch His power at work in real time. Stepping Forward in Strengthened Faith Because Scripture faithfully records Christ’s mighty acts and the Spirit continues those works among us, we can face trials, doubts, and assignments with unshakable confidence. The same Savior who called Lazarus from the tomb calls us to trust, follow, and testify—knowing that the One who performed the sign in John 12:18 still performs signs of grace every day. |
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