What significance do the "wonders and signs" hold for believers today? Verse in Focus “ A sense of awe came over everyone, and the apostles performed many wonders and signs.” (Acts 2:43) What Are “Wonders and Signs”? • Wonders highlight God’s power, producing awe. • Signs point to a divine message, authenticating God’s word or messenger. • Together, they reveal God’s character, confirm His revelation, and draw people to saving faith (cf. John 2:11; Hebrews 2:3-4). Purpose in the First-Century Church • Validation of the gospel: Acts 2:22; 2 Corinthians 12:12. • Attestation of apostolic authority: Acts 5:12-16. • Catalyst for evangelism and church growth: Acts 8:6-8. • Demonstration of compassion: Acts 3:1-10. Continued Significance for Believers Today • Same unchanging Lord – “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). • Confirmation of the Word – God may still employ signs to verify the gospel where Scripture is newly introduced (Mark 16:20). • Edification of the church – Gifts of healing, miracles, and discernment remain listed among Spirit-given gifts (1 Corinthians 12:7-10). • Reminder of God’s nearness – Miraculous answers to prayer cultivate reverence and dependence (Acts 4:30-31). • Foretaste of the coming kingdom – Present interventions hint at the fullness of restoration Christ will bring (Romans 8:23). Guidelines for Discernment • Test everything by Scripture (1 John 4:1). • Look for Christ-exalting fruit, not spectacle (John 16:14). • Beware counterfeit signs meant to deceive (2 Thessalonians 2:9-10). • Submit to orderly church oversight (1 Corinthians 14:26-33). Practical Responses for Today’s Believer • Pray expectantly for God to glorify His Son through healings, deliverances, and providential interventions. • Keep the gospel central; miracles serve the message, not vice-versa. • Share testimonies of God’s power to strengthen faith and witness. • Cultivate awe and worship when God acts; let wonders lead to deeper obedience. • Hold fast to Scripture even when the miraculous is unseen, trusting God’s sovereignty. Closing Thought The “wonders and signs” of Acts 2:43 still call modern believers to holy awe, unwavering faith in God’s Word, and bold proclamation of Christ—trusting that the Lord who once moved through mighty works has not changed and remains able to display His glory whenever and however He chooses. |
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