Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, miracles are extraordinary events that manifest divine intervention in the natural world. They are acts that transcend human capability and the laws of nature, serving as signs of God's power and presence. The power of God is essential for the occurrence of miracles, as they are not merely natural phenomena but divine acts that reveal His sovereignty and purpose.Old Testament Examples The Old Testament is replete with instances where the power of God is necessary for miracles. In the book of Exodus, the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 7-12) demonstrate God's power over nature and His authority over the gods of Egypt. The parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21-22) is another profound example, where Moses, by God's command, stretches out his hand, and the waters divide, allowing the Israelites to escape from Pharaoh's army. In 1 Kings 18:36-39, the prophet Elijah calls upon God to send fire from heaven to consume the sacrifice on Mount Carmel, proving to the people that the Lord is the true God. This miracle underscores the necessity of divine power, as Elijah's prayer is answered in a way that no human effort could achieve. New Testament Examples The New Testament continues to highlight the necessity of God's power in performing miracles. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, performs numerous miracles that attest to His divine authority. In the Gospel of John, Jesus turns water into wine at the wedding in Cana (John 2:1-11), a sign of His creative power and the inauguration of His public ministry. The feeding of the five thousand (Matthew 14:13-21) is another testament to divine power, where Jesus multiplies five loaves and two fish to feed a multitude. This miracle not only demonstrates His compassion but also His ability to provide abundantly beyond human limitations. The resurrection of Lazarus (John 11:38-44) is a profound example of God's power over life and death. Jesus calls Lazarus from the tomb, showcasing His authority as the "resurrection and the life" (John 11:25). The Apostolic Era After Jesus' ascension, the apostles continue to perform miracles through the power of the Holy Spirit. In Acts 3:6-8, Peter heals a lame man at the temple gate, declaring, "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!" This miracle, like others in the early church, serves to confirm the apostles' message and the truth of the Gospel. The apostle Paul also performs miracles, such as healing the sick and casting out demons, as recorded in Acts 19:11-12. These acts are not of human origin but are accomplished through the power of God working through His servants. Theological Significance Miracles in the Bible are not random acts but are purposeful, revealing God's character, affirming His covenant promises, and pointing to the ultimate miracle of salvation through Jesus Christ. They serve as signs that authenticate God's messengers and His message, drawing people to faith and repentance. The necessity of God's power in miracles underscores the biblical truth that He is the Creator and Sustainer of all things. As such, miracles are a testament to His omnipotence and His active involvement in the world. They remind believers of God's ability to intervene in human history and His desire to bring about His redemptive purposes. Torrey's Topical Textbook John 3:2The same came to Jesus by night, and said to him, Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that you do, except God be with him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Whether There is a Gratuitous Grace of Working Miracles? The Miracles Miracles no Remedy for Unbelief. Miracles of Healing Unsolicited. The Great Catechism . The Bible --The Background and the Picture. Answer to Mr. W's Third Objection. Positive Element. --Teleological Aim of Miracles. Christ --The Power and Wisdom of God On the Diversity of Spiritual Gifts. Resources Are the miracles in the Bible to be taken literally? | GotQuestions.orgHow can we discern counterfeit miracles? | GotQuestions.org What are the greatest miracles in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit of Different Kinds Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit were not to Be: Despised Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit were not to Be: Neglected Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit were not to Be: Purchased Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit were to be Sought After Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Christ Was Endued With Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Communicated by the Laying on of the Apostles' Hands Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Communicated for the Confirmation of the Gospel Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Communicated for the Edification of the Church Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Communicated: Upon the Preaching of the Gospel Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Counterfeited by Antichrist Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Dispensed According to his Sovereign Will Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Enumerated Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Foretold Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Might be Possessed Without Saving Grace Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Poured out on the Day of Pentecost Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Temporary Nature of Related Terms |
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