In the biblical narrative, miracles serve as divine signs that reveal God's power, authority, and presence among His people. These supernatural acts are not merely displays of power but are imbued with theological significance, pointing to deeper spiritual truths and affirming the message and messengers of God.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, miracles often accompany pivotal moments in Israel's history, serving as signs of God's covenantal faithfulness and His sovereign control over creation. For instance, the plagues in Egypt (Exodus 7-12) are not only judgments against Pharaoh but also signs demonstrating Yahweh's supremacy over the Egyptian gods. The parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21-22) serves as a sign of deliverance, showcasing God's power to save His people.

The miracles performed by prophets, such as Elijah and Elisha, further illustrate this concept. Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18:20-39) culminates in a miraculous fire from heaven, serving as a sign that the LORD is the true God. Similarly, Elisha's miracles, including the multiplication of oil (2 Kings 4:1-7) and the raising of the Shunammite's son (2 Kings 4:32-37), confirm his role as God's prophet and convey God's compassion and provision.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, miracles are central to the ministry of Jesus Christ and the early Church. The Gospel of John particularly emphasizes miracles as "signs" (Greek: σημεῖα, sēmeia) that reveal Jesus' divine identity and mission. John 2:11 states, "Jesus performed this first sign at Cana in Galilee. He thus revealed His glory, and His disciples believed in Him" . The miracles of Jesus, such as turning water into wine, healing the sick, and raising the dead, are signs that authenticate His claims as the Messiah and the Son of God.

The feeding of the 5,000 (John 6:1-14) and Jesus walking on water (John 6:16-21) are further examples where miracles serve as signs pointing to Jesus as the Bread of Life and the Lord over creation. In John 11:25, before raising Lazarus from the dead, Jesus declares, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies" , using the miracle as a sign of His power over life and death.

The apostles also perform miracles as signs in the early Church, confirming their message and authority. Acts 2:43 notes, "A sense of awe came over everyone, and the apostles performed many wonders and signs" . These acts serve to validate the apostolic witness and demonstrate the continued presence and power of the Holy Spirit.

Theological Significance

Miracles as signs are not ends in themselves but serve to direct attention to God and His redemptive purposes. They invite faith and obedience, calling individuals to recognize God's active involvement in the world. Hebrews 2:3-4 underscores this, stating, "This salvation, which was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard Him. God also testified to it by signs, wonders, and various miracles, and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to His will" .

In summary, miracles as signs are integral to the biblical witness, serving as divine attestations of God's power, the truth of His message, and the authenticity of His messengers. They are manifestations of God's kingdom breaking into the world, inviting humanity to respond in faith and trust.