How can we discern true miracles from deception, as seen in Exodus 7:11? Setting the Scene: Exodus 7:11 • “Then Pharaoh summoned the wise men and sorcerers, and they along with the Egyptian magicians, did the same thing by their secret arts.” • Moses and Aaron perform a God-sent sign; Egypt’s magicians replicate it through occult power. • Scripture records both genuine, God-originated miracles and lying wonders empowered by darkness (cf. 2 Thessalonians 2:9). Miracles or Magic? Key Differences • Source – God’s works spring from His character and word (John 5:19; Hebrews 2:4). – Counterfeits arise from “secret arts,” demonic influence, or human trickery (Acts 8:9-11). • Purpose – True miracles glorify God and confirm His revelation (John 2:11). – False signs distract, enslave, or exalt men (Acts 13:6-10). • Fruit – Genuine works produce obedience, holiness, and freedom (Exodus 8:19; Matthew 7:16-18). – Counterfeits foster rebellion, deception, and bondage (Revelation 13:13-14). • Endurance – Aaron’s staff “swallowed up their staffs” (Exodus 7:12); the Lord’s power ultimately prevails. – Imitations collapse under truth (Exodus 9:11; Acts 19:13-17). Biblical Tests for Authenticity • Do they align with God’s revealed word? – “You must not listen to that prophet…for the LORD your God is testing you” (Deuteronomy 13:1-4). • Do they confess Christ? – “Every spirit that confesses Jesus Christ…is from God” (1 John 4:1-3). • Do they lead to repentance and righteousness? – Genuine power accompanies “the gospel…unto salvation” (Romans 1:16). • Are they confirmed by multiple, trustworthy witnesses? – “By the testimony of two or three witnesses” (2 Corinthians 13:1). • Do they endure scrutiny over time? – True miracles withstand investigation; fakes unravel (Luke 8:17). Practical Discernment Today • Stay grounded in Scripture—daily intake equips the believer to recognize counterfeits. • Rely on the Holy Spirit—He grants the “discernment of spirits” (1 Corinthians 12:10). • Observe the messenger’s life—sound doctrine and godly character walk hand in hand (1 Timothy 4:16). • Examine the outcome—does it glorify Christ, edify the church, and advance the gospel? • Guard against sensationalism—faith rests on God’s word, not constant spectacle (John 20:29). Encouragement to Stand Firm • God allowed Pharaoh’s magicians a measure of imitation, yet every plague eventually exposed their impotence (Exodus 9:11). • The Lord still vindicates His truth; believers who cling to Scripture need not fear deception (Psalm 119:105). |
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