In the biblical narrative, miracles are often seen as divine acts that confirm the truth of God's message and the authority of His messengers. However, Scripture also acknowledges the existence of supernatural acts performed through evil agents, which serve to deceive and support false religions. These acts are characterized by their intent to lead people away from the truth of God and into idolatry or false worship.

Old Testament Examples

One of the earliest examples of miracles performed by evil agents is found in the account of Moses and Aaron confronting Pharaoh in Egypt. When Aaron cast down his staff before Pharaoh, it became a serpent. In response, Pharaoh summoned his wise men and sorcerers, and "each one threw down his staff, and it became a serpent. But Aaron’s staff swallowed up their staffs" (Exodus 7:12). This incident demonstrates that the magicians of Egypt, through their secret arts, were able to replicate the miracle, albeit with a lesser power that was ultimately overcome by the power of God.

The prophet Balaam is another figure associated with supernatural acts linked to false religion. Although initially a prophet of God, Balaam's heart was turned by the promise of reward from Balak, king of Moab. While Balaam's account does not explicitly describe him performing miracles, his ability to pronounce blessings and curses was sought after, indicating a recognized supernatural influence (Numbers 22-24).

New Testament Warnings

The New Testament provides further insight into the nature of false miracles. Jesus Himself warned of false prophets who would perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect (Matthew 24:24). This warning underscores the reality that not all supernatural acts are from God and that discernment is necessary.

The Apostle Paul, in his second letter to the Thessalonians, speaks of the "lawless one" whose coming is "in accordance with the work of Satan, with every kind of power, sign, and false wonder" (2 Thessalonians 2:9). This passage highlights the deceptive nature of miracles performed by evil agents, which are intended to lead people away from the truth of the Gospel.

The Role of Discernment

Throughout Scripture, believers are called to exercise discernment when encountering supernatural phenomena. The Apostle John advises, "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God" (1 John 4:1). This testing involves comparing the message and the fruit of the miracle with the revealed Word of God.

The Bible also provides criteria for identifying false prophets and their works. Deuteronomy 13:1-3 warns that even if a prophet or dreamer of dreams gives a sign or wonder that comes to pass, but then encourages the worship of other gods, they are not to be heeded. This passage emphasizes that allegiance to God and adherence to His commandments are paramount, even in the face of convincing supernatural acts.

Conclusion

The biblical account of miracles through evil agents serves as a sobering reminder of the spiritual battle between truth and deception. While God is the ultimate source of true miracles, the existence of counterfeit signs and wonders necessitates vigilance and discernment among believers. By grounding themselves in Scripture and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, Christians can navigate the complexities of supernatural phenomena and remain steadfast in their faith.Deuteronomy 13:1-2
If there arise among you a prophet, or a dreamer of dreams, and gives you a sign or a wonder,
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Chapter vii.
... only over Judea, the source of the evil but it ... The miracles in particular, which
form the part of ... Christianity hath travelled through dark and turbulent ages ...
//christianbookshelf.org/paley/evidences of christianity/chapter vii.htm

part i
... Cross and name of Christ do not perform any miracles, until I ... all your power from
doubt, unbelief, and the passions through which the evil serpent, the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part i.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... to the apostles, who had the power to work miracles. ... alluding to the trials he was
now passing through. ... Here his evil habits followed him, notwithstanding his ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm

The Iranian Conquest
... by supernatural circumstances, and the miracles which accompanied ... an incarnation
of his good or evil deeds. ... as far as Xanthus of Lydia, through Julius Africanus ...
/.../chapter ithe iranian conquest.htm

The Last Days of the Old Eastern World
... Persian agents were therefore employed to beg the Spartans to ... events are known to
us only through Ctesias ... functions"engaged in struggles with evil genii which ...
/.../chapter iithe last days of 2.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... they occupied soon became insufficient to support their numbers ... "And God sent an
evil spirit between ... While these were passing through the mountains they called ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

What is the difference between miracles and magic? | GotQuestions.org

What were the miracles of Jesus? What miracles did Jesus perform? | GotQuestions.org

Does God still perform miracles? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus