Signs & Wonders

1. Signs, wonders and miracles are supernatural interventions by God in the natural realm whereby
    He locally and temporarily suspends the normal laws of nature in order to achieve His specific
    purposes.
     (Genesis 7:11–24; Joshua 10:12–14; Matthew 14:17–21; John 2:1–11; 6:19; Acts 2:1–12)

2. Signs and wonders from God generally had a specific purpose and occurred according to a clear
    and consistent pattern. Though not necessarily limited to the following, signs and wonders were
    generally given . . .

    2.1 To accomplish a specific task or achieve a unique goal in God’s program.
             (Joshua 10:12–14; Acts 2:1–12; Jude 16:17–30)

    2.2 As a sign of impending judgment, or as the judgment itself, due to sin and unbelief.
            (Genesis 7:11–14; Exodus 7–12; Acts 2:14–21)

    2.3 As a demonstration of God’s power over the Creation, including death.
            (Joshua 10:12–14; Luke 8:24; John 2:1–11)

    2.4 To authenticate the authority and message of God and his messengers.
             (Exodus 7–12; 1 Kings 18:20–34; Mark 2:8–12; Acts 3:1–16)

    2.5 In the context of unbelief rather than in the context of faith / faithfulness.
            (Genesis 7:11–14; Exodus 7–12; 1 Kings 18:20–34)

    2.6 As a means of protection / provision for His people in unique situations
            (Genesis 7:11–14; Exodus 14:19–31; 16:13–17)

3. Jesus condemned those who seek signs as being part of a “wicked and perverse generation,”
    indicating that God did not intend for signs and wonders to be characteristic of the normal life of
    the believer.
     (Matthew 12:39; 16:4; Luke 11:19)

4. In the present age, God continues to providentially care for His creation in accordance with His
    will and in response to the prayers and needs of His people, but not in a way that would be
    considered miraculous in the biblical sense of the word.
     (Psalms 37:25; James 5: 13-15)