In what ways can we discern true miracles from false ones today? Starting Point—Exodus 7:22: Miracles That Mimic “ But the magicians of Egypt did the same by their secret arts, and Pharaoh’s heart was hardened; he would not listen to them, just as the LORD had said.” • God’s sign through Moses was instantly counterfeited. • The appearance of power alone did not make the magicians’ act divine. • Pharaoh’s hardened heart shows that impressive wonders can actually push people farther from God. Principle 1: Examine the Source of Power • True miracles are performed in the name and authority of the Lord (Acts 3:6). • Counterfeits often draw from “secret arts” (Exodus 7:22) or deceptive spiritual power (2 Thessalonians 2:9). • Ask: Does the power invoke Christ as revealed in Scripture, or something else? Principle 2: Evaluate the Purpose and Fruit • God’s signs serve to glorify Him and advance His redemptive plan (John 2:11). • False wonders frequently promote pride, fear, money, or idolatry (Acts 8:9–11). • Jesus: “By their fruit you will recognize them” (Matthew 7:16). Look for repentance, faith, and holiness produced. Principle 3: Test Against the Written Word • Deuteronomy 13:1-3 warns that even accurate predictions are false if they lead away from God’s commands. • Scripture is the final standard; any sign urging a violation of it is counterfeit (Isaiah 8:20). • Believers are commanded to “test the spirits” (1 John 4:1) by the doctrine they promote—especially regarding Christ’s incarnation, death, and resurrection. Principle 4: Consider the Messenger’s Doctrine and Character • True servants uphold sound teaching (1 Timothy 6:3-4). • Moral compromise, greed, or self-exaltation expose impostors (2 Peter 2:1-3). • Moses consistently pointed to the LORD; Egyptian magicians pointed to themselves and Pharaoh’s power. Principle 5: Observe the Resulting Response • Genuine miracles call for humble obedience (Exodus 4:31). • Counterfeits often harden the heart (Exodus 7:22) or gather a following around a personality (Acts 8:11). • When a sign leaves spectators unchanged in holiness, question its authenticity. Practical Steps for Today 1. Saturate your mind with Scripture so you can instantly spot deviations. 2. Ask God for discernment; wisdom comes to those who request it (James 1:5). 3. Look for Christ-centered purpose, not spectacle. 4. Examine long-term fruit in the lives touched by the alleged miracle. 5. Stay connected to a biblically faithful church; communal discernment protects against deception. |
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