What does "signs and wonders" in Jeremiah 32:21 reveal about God's nature? Setting the Scene Jeremiah 32 describes a real moment in Judah’s history when Jerusalem lay under Babylonian siege. In the middle of the turmoil, the prophet prays, recounting what God has already done: “You brought Your people Israel out of the land of Egypt with signs and wonders, with a mighty hand and outstretched arm, and with great terror” (Jeremiah 32:21). By recalling the Exodus, Jeremiah highlights facets of God’s character that are timeless. What “Signs and Wonders” Mean • “Signs” (Hebrew ʼôth) point unmistakably to God’s presence and authority. • “Wonders” (Hebrew mōphet) leave observers awestruck, displaying power beyond human explanation. Together they are divine interventions that make God’s reality visible and undeniable. Revelations About God’s Nature • Power that Overrides Natural Limits – The plagues of Egypt (Exodus 7–12) altered nature itself. – Psalm 77:14: “You are the God who works wonders; You display Your power among the peoples.” God’s power is not abstract; it tangibly commands creation. • Faithful Covenant Keeper – Exodus 3:7-8 shows God remembering His covenant with Abraham and acting on it. – Deuteronomy 7:18-19 reminds Israel to “remember… the signs and the wonders.” The miracles prove He keeps every promise, no matter how long it takes. • Deliverer with a Purpose – Exodus 6:6: “I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment.” – Acts 7:36: Stephen recounts the same “wonders and signs in Egypt… through the Red Sea.” God’s wonders are never aimless; they secure freedom for His people and advance His redemptive plan. • Sovereign over All Powers – Each plague dethroned an Egyptian deity (Exodus 12:12). – Isaiah 46:9-10: “I am God, and there is no other… My purpose will be established.” “Signs and wonders” expose false gods and assert His unrivaled rule. • Communicator of Truth – Exodus 10:2: the signs were “so that you may tell your children and grandchildren.” – John 20:30-31: New-Testament signs are written “so that you may believe.” Miracles function as God’s visual sermons, ensuring His message is heard and remembered. • Holy and Awe-Inspiring – Jeremiah adds “with great terror,” emphasizing reverent fear. – Psalm 99:3: “Let them praise Your great and awesome name—He is holy.” God’s wonders evoke worshipful awe, keeping familiarity from breeding contempt. Echoes of “Signs and Wonders” Throughout Scripture • Exodus 4:17 – Moses’ staff becomes an instrument of signs. • Joshua 3:5 – God promises wonders while leading Israel into Canaan. • Daniel 6:27 – “He works signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth.” • Acts 2:22 – Jesus is “accredited by God to you with miracles, wonders, and signs.” The pattern is consistent: every era showcases the same nature—powerful, faithful, sovereign. Living in the Light of These Truths • Expectant Faith – The God who split the sea still acts powerfully today (Hebrews 13:8). • Bold Witness – Recounting His historic wonders fuels present-day testimony (Psalm 145:4-6). • Reverent Worship – Awareness of His awe-inspiring deeds deepens humility and praise (Revelation 15:3-4). The phrase “signs and wonders” in Jeremiah 32:21 is much more than a historical footnote; it is a window into a God who is incomparably powerful, unfailingly faithful, sovereign over all, purposeful in action, and worthy of reverent awe—then, now, and forever. |
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