In the Acts of the Apostles, Luke shows miracles continuing to take place in the early Church through the hands of the apostles and other believers. The early Christians do the same kinds of miracles that they had seen Jesus do: healing the sick, casting out demons, and even raising the dead. Luke gives no indication that miracles were going to stop, just because Jesus was gone. Luke especially concentrates on the ministries of Peter and Paul and highlights several miracles that that they perform.
In his letters, the Apostle Paul mentions the fact that he performed, “miraculous signs and wonders by the power of God’s Spirit,” as he travelled and preached and planted churches. (Romans 15:19) Paul provides some clarification and teaching about the gifts of the Holy Spirit in his first letter to the Corinthians. Paul stated that one of the Holy Spirit’s gifts was that of performing miracles. (1 Corinthians 12:10)
The anonymous letter to the Hebrews recounts many miracles in chapter eleven. These are mostly quoted from the Old Testament. James, in his letter, encourages those who are sick to have the leaders of the church pray for them so that they might be healed. (James 5:14-15)
Two letters in the New Testament are attributed to Peter. While he doesn’t discuss any of Jesus’ miracles, or even any that he had performed, Peter does mention the Transfiguration. This was one of the most dramatic supernatural experiences of Jesus’ ministry. Peter, James, and John were witnesses of this event recorded in all three Synoptic Gospels. Peter mentions this event in 2 Peter 1:16-18.
The last book of the New Testament is the Revelation. The entire book of Revelation is set in the context of spiritual warfare and God’s coming judgment. There are many references to supernatural events and miraculous acts. Unfortunately, in Revelation Satan is also credited with performing miraculous signs in his efforts to deceive God’s people.
It is impossible to read the New Testament and not encounter the miraculous. Throughout history, God’s power has been seen to occasionally break out in people’s lives. While miracles may not be everyday occurrences, neither are they confined to the pages of Scripture. The God of the Bible is still alive and longs to reveal His love and His power to those who will receive them.
My wife, Annie and I are serving in Curitiba, Brazil. We are helping with church planting efforts, training leaders, and serving on the pastoral team of a great local church. Would you consider becoming a part of our support team? Here is the link. Thanks so much!
