Teaching

Teaching in the Bible is a central theme, reflecting the importance of imparting wisdom, knowledge, and understanding of God's will and commandments. The Old Testament emphasizes the role of teaching in the life of Israel, with figures like Moses and the prophets serving as primary instructors of God's law. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 underscores the importance of teaching: "These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up."

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is the ultimate teacher, often referred to as "Rabbi" by His disciples and followers. His teachings, encapsulated in the Gospels, focus on the Kingdom of God, love, forgiveness, and righteousness. The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) is a quintessential example of Jesus' teaching, where He expounds on the Beatitudes, the Lord's Prayer, and various moral and ethical instructions. Jesus' teaching style often included parables, which are simple accounts used to illustrate profound spiritual truths. In Matthew 13:34 , it is noted, "Jesus spoke all these things to the crowds in parables. He did not tell them anything without using a parable."

The apostles continued the teaching ministry of Jesus, spreading His message throughout the known world. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 commands, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." The early church placed a strong emphasis on teaching, as seen in Acts 2:42 : "They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer."

Miracles

Miracles in the Bible are extraordinary events that manifest divine intervention in human affairs, serving as signs of God's power and authority. In the Old Testament, miracles often accompany the deliverance of God's people, such as the parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21-22) and the provision of manna in the wilderness (Exodus 16:14-15). These acts demonstrate God's sovereignty and His ability to provide and protect.

In the New Testament, Jesus' ministry is marked by numerous miracles, which authenticate His divine nature and mission. These include healing the sick, raising the dead, casting out demons, and controlling nature. One of the most notable miracles is the feeding of the five thousand, where Jesus multiplies five loaves and two fish to feed a large crowd (Matthew 14:19-21). Another significant miracle is the raising of Lazarus from the dead, which underscores Jesus' power over life and death (John 11:43-44).

The apostles also performed miracles, continuing the work of Jesus and confirming the message of the Gospel. Acts 3:6-7 recounts Peter healing a lame man: "But Peter said, 'Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!' Taking him by the right hand, Peter helped him up, and at once the man’s feet and ankles were made strong."

Miracles serve as a testament to God's active presence in the world and His compassion for humanity. They are not merely displays of power but are intended to lead people to faith and a deeper understanding of God's nature and purposes.