What role do "signs and wonders" play in affirming God's covenant with His people? Opening the Text “Then the LORD said: ‘Behold, I am making a covenant. Before all your people I will perform wonders never before done in any nation in all the world. All the people among whom you live will see the LORD’s work—for it is an awesome thing that I will do with you.’” (Exodus 34:10) Defining Signs and Wonders • Signs: visible acts that point to a deeper, covenant reality • Wonders: awe-inspiring displays of God’s power that leave no doubt He is present and active Together, they serve as God’s signature on His promises. Why God Uses Them in Covenant • Authenticate His word—He speaks, then backs it up visibly (Exodus 7:5). • Reveal His character—holy, powerful, merciful (Psalm 105:26-27). • Distinguish His people—Israel knew they were set apart when the Red Sea parted (Exodus 14:31). • Stir faith and obedience—witnesses are moved from mere knowledge to trusting action (Deuteronomy 4:34-35). Old Testament Snapshots • Flood & rainbow—sign of preservation (Genesis 9:13). • Circumcision—ongoing physical mark of covenant (Genesis 17:11). • Plagues of Egypt—judgment on false gods, rescue for Israel (Exodus 7–12). • Pillar of cloud and fire—daily assurance of guidance (Exodus 13:21-22). • Jordan River parted—confirming land inheritance (Joshua 3:14-17). Transition to the New Covenant • Isaiah 7:14 foretells the virgin birth—a sign that “God with us” is literal. • Jesus’ ministry: “Men of Israel, listen to this message: Jesus of Nazareth was a man attested to you by God with miracles, wonders, and signs…” (Acts 2:22). • Cross & resurrection—the ultimate wonder sealing the covenant in His blood (Luke 22:20). • Early church: “God also testified to it by signs, wonders, various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit” (Hebrews 2:4). What These Examples Teach Us • Covenant language is never empty; God underscores it with power. • The pattern is consistent—promise, sign, sustained faith. • Every wonder carries a call: Remember, obey, pass the story to the next generation (Deuteronomy 6:22-24). Living in Light of Signs and Wonders Today • Scripture remains the primary covenant document; signs never override it. • God is free to confirm His word with miracles, yet He invites steady faith even when the extraordinary feels absent (John 20:29). • Gratitude and testimony turn past wonders into present encouragement (Psalm 77:11-14). Key Takeaways • Signs and wonders are covenant stamps: God’s promises are as tangible as parted seas and empty tombs. • They are meant to deepen relationship, not replace it—drawing us closer to the Promise-Keeper. • The greatest sign has already been given in Christ; every further wonder simply echoes, “Yes and Amen.” |
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