Topical Encyclopedia A "wonder-worker" refers to an individual who performs miraculous acts or signs that inspire awe and testify to divine power. In the biblical context, wonder-workers are often seen as instruments through which God manifests His power and authority. The term is closely associated with prophets, apostles, and, most notably, Jesus Christ, whose miracles serve as a testament to His divine nature and mission.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, wonder-workers are often prophets or leaders chosen by God to deliver His people and demonstrate His power. Moses is a quintessential example, performing numerous signs and wonders in Egypt to persuade Pharaoh to release the Israelites. These acts include turning the Nile into blood, parting the Red Sea, and providing manna from heaven (Exodus 7-16). The purpose of these wonders was to affirm God's sovereignty and His covenant with Israel. Elijah and Elisha are also prominent wonder-workers. Elijah called down fire from heaven to consume a sacrifice on Mount Carmel, demonstrating the power of the God of Israel over the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18:20-39). Elisha, his successor, performed miracles such as multiplying oil for a widow (2 Kings 4:1-7) and raising the Shunammite's son from the dead (2 Kings 4:32-37). New Testament Context In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is the supreme wonder-worker. His miracles are signs of His messianic identity and divine authority. The Gospels record numerous miracles, including healing the sick, raising the dead, and controlling nature. For instance, Jesus healed a man born blind, which led to a profound theological discussion about sin and divine purpose (John 9:1-7). He also raised Lazarus from the dead, a miracle that underscored His power over life and death (John 11:38-44). The apostles, empowered by the Holy Spirit, continued the ministry of miracles after Jesus' ascension. Peter and John healed a lame man at the temple gate, which led to many believing in Jesus (Acts 3:1-10). Paul performed various miracles, including raising Eutychus from the dead (Acts 20:9-12) and healing the sick through handkerchiefs and aprons that had touched him (Acts 19:11-12). Purpose and Significance The purpose of miracles in the biblical narrative is multifaceted. They serve as a confirmation of the divine message and the messenger. In John 14:11, Jesus says, "Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me—or at least believe on account of the works themselves." Miracles also reveal God's compassion and concern for human suffering, as seen in Jesus' healing ministry. Furthermore, miracles are a foretaste of the coming Kingdom of God, where the effects of sin and death will be fully overcome. They point to the ultimate restoration and redemption that God promises to His people. Skepticism and Faith While miracles are signs of divine power, they also evoke skepticism and disbelief. In Matthew 12:38-39, the Pharisees demand a sign from Jesus, to which He responds, "A wicked and adulterous generation demands a sign, but none will be given it except the sign of the prophet Jonah." This highlights the tension between faith and the demand for empirical proof. Conclusion The role of the wonder-worker in the Bible is to act as a conduit for God's power, revealing His nature and purposes. Through these miraculous acts, believers are called to faith and trust in God's ultimate plan for salvation and restoration. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) One who performs wonders, or miracles.Library Of Gregory Thaumaturgus (The Wonder-Worker). If You have Enjoyed this Book, Consider Making Your Next Selection ... Enumeration of the Illustrious Men in the Church who in their ... A Group of Miracles among a Semi-Heathen Population The General Service to a Monk. Discourse on Spiritual Food and True Discipleship. Peter's ... The Pupils of Origen. July 24. "The Righteousness of the Law Might be Fulfilled in Us" ... Education. It Has Also Seemed Good to this Holy Council... Thesaurus Wonder-worker (9 Occurrences)Wonder-worker. Wonders, Wonder-worker. Wonder-workers . Noah Webster's Dictionary ... Multi-Version Concordance Wonder-worker (9 Occurrences). ... /w/wonder-worker.htm - 9k Powers (43 Occurrences) Wonder-workers (16 Occurrences) Arts (48 Occurrences) User (2 Occurrences) Reader (5 Occurrences) Poison-snakes (3 Occurrences) Bar-jesus (1 Occurrence) Barjesus (1 Occurrence) Chaldaean (9 Occurrences) Resources What is Dynamic Monarchianism? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to test the spirits? | GotQuestions.org Muslim Questions - questions from Muslims and about Islam | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Wonder-worker (9 Occurrences)Acts 8:9 Acts 13:6 Acts 13:8 Leviticus 20:27 Deuteronomy 18:10 Psalms 58:5 Isaiah 3:3 Jeremiah 8:17 Daniel 2:10 Subtopics Related Terms |
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