Reference: Miracle
American
Also called a sign, wonder, or mighty work, Ac 2:32; a work so superseding in its higher forms the established laws of nature as to evince the special interposition of God. A miracle is to be distinguished from wonders wrought by designing men through artful deceptions, occult sciences, or laws of nature unknown except to adepts. The miracles wrought by Christ, for example, were such as God only could perform; were wrought in public, before numerous witnesses, both friends and foes; were open to the most perfect scrutiny; had an end in view worthy of divine sanction; were attested by witnesses whose character and conduct establish their claim to our belief; and are further confirmed by institutions still existing, intended to commemorate them, and dating from the period of the miracles. Christ appealed to his mighty works as undeniable proofs of his divinity and Messiahship, Mt 9:6; 11:4-5,23-24; Joh 10:24-27; 20:29,31. The deceptions of the magicians in Egypt, and of false prophets in ancient and in modern times, De 13:1; Mt 24:24; 2Th 2:9; Re 13:13-14, would not bear the above tests. By granting to any man the power to work a miracle, God gave the highest attestation to the truth he should teach and the message he should bring, 1Ki 18:38-39; this is God's own seal, not to be affixed to false hoods; and though the lying wonders of Satan and his agents were so plausible as to "deceive if possible the very elect," no one who truly sought to know and do the will of God could be deluded by them.
The chief object of miracles having been to authenticate the revelation God has made of his will, these mighty words ceased when the Scripture canon was completed and settled, and Christianity was fairly established. Since the close of the first century from the ascension of Christ, few or no undoubted miracles have been wrought; and whether a sufficient occasion for new miracles will ever arise is known only to God.
The following list comprises most of the miracles on record in the Bible, not including the supernatural visions and revelations of himself which God vouch-safed to his ancient servants, nor those numerous wonders of his providence which manifest his hand almost as indisputable as miracles themselves. See also PROPHECY.
Old Testament Miracles
The creation of all things, Ge 1.
The deluge, comprising many miracles, Ge 6.
The destruction of Sodom, etc., Ge 19.
The healing of Abimelech, Ge 20:17-18.
The burning bush, Ex 3:2-4.
Moses' rod made a serpent, and restored, Ex 4:3-4; 7:10.
Moses' hand made leprous, and healed, Ex 4.6-7.
Water turned into blood, Ex 4:9,30.
The Nile turned to blood, Ex 7:20.
Frogs brought and removed, Ex 8:6,13.
Lice brought, Ex 8:17.
Flies brought, and removed, Ex 8:21-31.
Murrain of beasts, Ex 9:3-6.
Boils and blains brought, Ex 9:10-11.
Hail brought, and removed, Ex 9:23,33.
Locusts brought, and removed, Ex 10:13,19.
Darkness brought, Ex 10:22.
First-born destroyed, Ex 10:29.
The Red Sea divided, Ex 14:21-22.
Egyptians overwhelmed, Ex 14:26-28.
Waters of Marah sweetened, Ex 15:27.
Quails and manna sent, Ex 16.
Water from the rock, in Horeb, Ex 17:6.
Amalek vanquished, Ex 17:11-13.
Pillar of cloud and fire, Nu 9:15-23.
Leprosy of Miriam, Nu 12:10.
Destruction of Korah, etc., Nu 16:28-35,46-50.
Aaron's rod budding, Nu 17:8.
Water from the rock, in Kadesh, Nu 20:11.
Healing by the brazen serpent, Nu 21:8-9.
Balaam's ass speaks, Nu 22:28.
Plague in the desert, Nu 25:1,9.
Water of Jordan divided, Jos 3:10-17.
Jordan restored to its course, Jos 4:18.
Jericho taken, Jos 6:6-20.
Achan discovered, Jos 7:14-21.
Sun and moon stand still, Jos 10:12-14.
Gideon's fleece wet, Jg 6:36-40.
Midianites destroyed, Jg 7:16-22.
Exploits of Samson, Jg 14-16.
House of Dagon destroyed, Jg 16:30.
Dagon falls before the ark, etc., 1Sa 5.
Return of the ark, 1Sa 6:12.
Thunder and rain in harvest, 1Sa 12:18.
Jeroboam's hand withered, etc., 1Ki 13:4,6.
The altar rent, 1Ki 13:5.
Drought caused, 1Ki 17:6.
Elijah fed by ravens, 1Ki 17:6.
Meal and oil supplied, 1Ki 17:14-16.
Child restored to life, 1Ki 17:22-23.
Sacrifice consumed by fire, 1Ki 18:36,38.
Rain brought, 1Ki 18:41-45.
Men destroyed by fire, 2Ki 1:10-12.
Waters of Jordan divided, 2Ki 2:14.
Oil supplied, 2Ki 4:1-7.
Child restored to life, 2Ki 4:32-35.
Gehazi's leprosy, 2Ki 5:27.
Iron caused to swim, 2Ki 6:6.
Syrians smitten blind, etc., 2Ki 19:35.
Hezekiah healed, 2Ki 20:7.
Shadow put back, 2Ki 20:11.
Pestilence in Israel, 1Ch 21:14.
Jonah preserved by a fish, Jon 1:17; 2:10.
New Testament Miracles.
The star in the east, Mt 2:3.
The Spirit like a dove, Mt 3:16.
Christ's fast and temptations, Mt 4:1-11.
Many miracles of Christ, Mt 4:23-24; 8:16; 14:14,36; 15:30; Mr 1:34; Lu 6:17-19.
Lepers cleansed, Mt 8:3-4; Lu 17:14.
Centurion's servant healed, Mt 8:5-13.
Peter's wife's mother healed, Mt 8:14.
Tempests stilled, Mt 8:23-26; 14:32.
Devils cast out, Mt 8:28-32; 9:32-33; 15:22-28; 17:14-18.
Paralytics healed, Mt 9:2-6; Mr 2:3-12.
Issue of blood healed, Mt 9:20-22.
Jairus' daughter raised to life, Mt 9:18,25.
Sight given to the blind, Mt 9:27-30; 20:34; Mr 8:22-25; Joh 9:1-7.
The dumb restored, Mt 9:32-33; 12:22; Mr 7:33-35.
Miracles by the disciples, Mt 10:1-8.
Multitudes fed, Mt 14:15-21; 15:35-38.
Christ walking on the sea, Mt 14:25-27.
Peter walking on the sea, Mt 14:29.
Christ's transfiguration, etc., Mt 17:1-8.
Tribute from a fish's mouth, Mt 17:27.
The fig tree withered, Mt 21:19.
Miracles at the crucifixion, Mt 27:51-53.
Miracles at the resurrection, Mt 28:1-7; Lu 24:6.
Draught of fishes, Lu 5:4-6; Joh 21:6.
Widow's son raised to life, Lu 7:14-15.
Miracles before John's messengers, Lu 7:21-22.
Miracles by the seventy, Lu 10:9,17.
Woman healed of infirmity, Lu 13:11-13.
Dropsy cured, Lu 14:2-4.
Malchus' ear restored, Lu 22:50-51.
Water turned to wine, Joh 2:6-10.
Nobleman's son healed, Joh 4:46-53.
Impotent man healed, Joh 5:5-9.
Sudden crossing of the sea, Joh 6:21.
Lazarus raised from the dead, Joh 11:43-44.
Christ's coming to his disciples, Joh 20:19,26.
Wonders at the Pentecost, Ac 2:1-11.
Miracles by the apostles, Ac 2:43; 5:12.
Lame man cured, Ac 3:7.
Death of Ananias and Sapphira, Ac 5:5,10.
Many sick healed, Ac 5:15-16.
Apostles delivered from prison, Ac 5:19.
Miracles by Stephen, Ac 6:8.
Miracles by Philip, Ac 8:6-7,13.
Eneas made whole, Ac 9:34.
Dorcas restored to life, Ac 9:40.
Peter delivered from prison, Ac 12:6-10.
Elymas struck blind, Ac 13:11.
Miracles by Paul and Barnabas, Ac 14:3.
Lame man cured, Ac 14:10.
Unclean spirit cast out, Ac 16:18.
Paul and Silas delivered, Ac 16:25-26.
Special miracles, Ac 19:11-12.
Eutchus restored to life, Ac 20:10-12.
Viper's bite made harmless, Ac 28:5.
Father of Publius, etc., healed, Ac 28:8-9.
See Verses Found in Dictionary
when king Herod heard these things, he was alarm'd, and all Jerusalem with him.
and when Jesus was baptized, he came out of the water: and immediately the heavens seem'd to be parted asunder before him, and he saw the Spirit
Then was Jesus led up by the Spirit into the wilderness, to be tempted by the devil: there having fasted forty days and forty nights, he at length grew hungry. read more. whereupon the tempter came to him, and said, "If thou be the Son of God, command these stones to become bread." but Jesus answered him, It is written, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every thing that God shall prescribe." then the devil took Jesus with him to Jerusalem, and having set him on the wing of the temple, he said to him, if you are the Son of God, throw your self down: for it is written, "he will charge his angels to take care of you, and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest you bruise your foot against a stone." Jesus replied, it is likewise written, "Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God." Again, the devil accompanyed him up a very high mountain, and representing to him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them: all these things, said he, will I give you, if you will prostrate your self and worship me. Then said Jesus to him, get thee hence Satan: for it it written, "Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve ." whereupon the devil left him, and immediately angels came and ministred unto him.
Thus went Jesus about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all sorts of diseases and infirmities among the people: so that his fame was spread over all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were afflicted with any diseases or pains, demoniacs, lunatics, and paralytics; and he healed them.
and Jesus held out his hand and touched him, saying, I will, be thou clean. and immediately he was cured of his leprosy. and Jesus said to him, take care not to tell any man, but go thy way, shew thy self to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, that it may be a testimony against them. read more. When Jesus was entred into Capernaum, a centurion came and addressed himself to him, saying, Lord, my servant lies sick at home grievously afflicted with the palsy, and Jesus said to him, I will come and heal him. the centurion answered, Lord, I am not worthy the honour of such a visit: do but give the word, and my servant is sav'd. for I am a man under authority, having soldiers under my command: I bid this man, go, and he's gone: another, come, and he's here: and to my servant, do this, and it is done. when Jesus heard it, he was surpriz'd, and said to his followers, I profess I have not met with such an instance of faith, no not in Israel. and I declare unto you, that many shall come from the east and from the west, and shall sit at table with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob in the heavenly kingdom. but the heirs to the kingdom shall be cast into the darkness without: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. and Jesus said to the centurion, go thy way, what you believed could be done, is effected for you. and his servant was healed in that very hour. After this Jesus went to Peter's house, where seeing his wife's mother lying sick of a fever,
in the evening they brought him several demoniacs: and he cast out the spirits with a word, and healed all that were sick:
When he went aboard the vessel, his disciples followed him. and on a sudden so great a storm arose at sea, that the ship was covered with the waves: but he was asleep. read more. and his disciples came and awaked him, saying, Lord, save us: we are sinking. and he answer'd, why are you afraid, o incredulous people? then he arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm.
When he was arrived on the other side, in the country of the Gergesenes, two demoniacs met him starting out of the tombs with such fury, it was not safe for any body to pass that way. and they roar'd out, Jesus, thou son of God, what injury have we done you? are you come here to torment us before the time? read more. and there was a considerable herd of swine feeding, at some distance from them. So the devils entreated him, saying, if you force us out, suffer us to retire into the herd of swine. and Jesus bad them go, accordingly they came out, and went into the herd of swine: and immediately the herd of swine ran furiously down a precipice into the sea, where they were all drown'd.
where they brought a man on a bed, lying sick of the palsy: and Jesus perceiving their faith, said to the paralytic, take courage, my son, thy sins are forgiven. whereupon certain of the scribes said within themselves, this man blasphemes. read more. and Jesus perceiving their reflections, said, why do you entertain so bad an opinion? for is it not as easy to say, thy sins are forgiven? as to say, arise, and walk? only it was fit you should know that the son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins: arise, then, said he, to the paralytic, take up thy bed, and march home.
only it was fit you should know that the son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins: arise, then, said he, to the paralytic, take up thy bed, and march home.
Whilst he thus entertain'd them, the ruler of the synagogue came and made his address to him, saying, my daughter is upon the point of death: but come and lay thy hand upon her, and she shall live.
When a woman, who had been troubled with an hemorrhage twelve years, came behind him, and touch'd the hem of his garment. for she said within her self, if I do but touch his garment, I shall be cured: read more. but Jesus turned about, and looking upon her, said, daughter lay aside your fears, thy faith hath cured thee: and the woman was cured from that instant.
but when the company were turn'd out, he went in, and grasping her hand, the maid rose up.
As Jesus departed thence, two blind men followed him, crying out, son of David, have mercy on us. and when he was got into the house, the blind men advanc'd: and Jesus said to them, do ye think I am able to effect this cure? they answer'd, yes, Lord. read more. then he touched their eyes, saying, according to your faith, be it unto you. and they had their sight: but Jesus gave them a strict charge, saying, take care not to let any man know it:
At their going out, a demoniac was brought in, who was dumb.
At their going out, a demoniac was brought in, who was dumb. and when the devil was cast out, the dumb man came to his speech; at which the people were amazed, saying, nothing like this was ever seen in Israel.
and when the devil was cast out, the dumb man came to his speech; at which the people were amazed, saying, nothing like this was ever seen in Israel.
Jesus having called his twelve disciples, he gave them power to cast out unclean spirits, and to heal diseases and disorders of every kind. Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; the first is Simon, who is called Peter, then Andrew his brother, read more. James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, Philip and Bartholomew, Thomas, and Matthew the publican, James the son of Alpheus, and Labbeus, whose sirname was Thaddeus, Simon the zelot, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him. Jesus made these twelve his missionaries, and gave them these instructions, don't go any where among the Gentiles, nor enter into any city of the Samaritans. but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. and wherever ye go, make this proclamation: the kingdom of heaven is nigh. heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: what ye have received gratis, give gratis.
Jesus answered them, go and relate to John, what you hear and what you see: the blind recover their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the gospel preached to them.
and thou, Capernaum, which art exalted to heaven, shalt be brought to destruction: for if the miracles which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have subsisted even to this day. I tell you likewise, that in the day of judgment, Sodom shall be treated with less severity than you.
Then they brought to him a demoniac, who was both blind and dumb: and he cured him so effectually, that he recovered both his speech and his sight;
as Jesus landed, he saw a great multitude, and was touch'd with compassion towards them, and healed their sick. At evening his disciples came to him, saying, this is a desert place, and dinner-time is now past; send the multitude away, that they may go to buy themselves provisions in the villages. read more. but Jesus said to them, that's needless, let them eat what you have. we have nothing here, said they, but five loaves, and two fishes. bring them hither, said he. then giving orders for the company to sit down on the grass, he took the five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks; then breaking the loaves into pieces, he gave them to his disciples, and the disciples to the company: who all of them eat, and were filled: and they carried away twelve baskets full of fragments that were left. now they that had eaten, were about five thousand men, beside women and children.
at the dawn of day, Jesus came to them walking on the sea. the disciples seeing him walking on the sea, cry'd out in a fright, an apparition; and they scream'd for fear. read more. but Jesus immediately call'd to them, take courage, said he, it is I, don't be afraid.
Jesus said, come. and Peter getting out of the ship, walk'd on the water to go to Jesus.
and when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased.
praying him to let them only touch the hem of his garment: and as many as touch'd it were made perfectly whole.
and there came a woman of Canaan from those quarters, and cried out to him, have mercy on me, O Lord, thou son of David; my daughter is grievously tormented by a demon. but Jesus not making her any answer, his disciples came and entreated him to grant her request; for, said they, she is very importunate with us. read more. but he answered, my commission was only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. however she advanc'd, and throwing her self at his feet, cried, O Lord, assist me. but he answered, it is not just to take the childrens bread, and throw it to puppies. 'tis true, Lord, said she: yet even puppies eat of the crumbs which fall from their master's table. then Jesus answered her, O woman, great is thy faith: as you desire, be it done. and her daughter was healed from that very hour.
there a great crowd of people came to him, bringing with them the lame, blind, dumb, maimed, and many others, and laid them down at Jesus feet, and he healed them:
and he bid the people sit down on the ground. then taking the seven loaves, and the fish, he gave thanks, and distributed them, by pieces, to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. read more. so that they all eat, and were satiated: the superfluous fragments they carried off, amounting to seven baskets full: though the guests were to the number of four thousand men, beside women and children.
After six days, Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, in private to the top of a high mountain. and was transfigured before them; his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. read more. and presently they saw Moses and Elias conversing with him. then Peter address'd himself to Jesus, Lord, said he, it is good for us to stay here: if you please, let us make three tabernacles here; one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elias. while he was speaking, a bright cloud surrounded them: and suddenly a voice broke out of the cloud, saying, "this is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him." and when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were in a terrible fright. but Jesus came and touched them, and said, arise, be not afraid. and when they had lift up their eyes, they saw Jesus all alone.
And when they were come to the multitude, a man came kneeling to him, and cry'd, Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is grievously afflicted with the epilepsy; he often falls into the fire, and frequently into the water. read more. I presented him to your disciples, but they could not cure him. upon which Jesus answered, incredulous and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me. and Jesus rebuked the demon, and he departed out of him: so that the child was cured from that very hour.
however, lest we should give offence, go you to the sea, throw in a book, and take the first fish that strikes: then open its jaws, and you will find a piece of money: that take, and give it to them for me and thee.
Jesus then having compassion on them, touched their eyes: and immediately they had their sight, and they followed him.
when seeing a fig-tree by the way, he came to it, and finding nothing thereon, but bare leaves, said to it, may you never more bear fruit. and presently the fig-tree withered away.
for there shall arise false Messiahs, and false prophets, and shall shew such astonishing miracles and prodigies, as to deceive, if that can do it, the very converts themselves.
Immediately the vail of the temple was rent in two, from the top to the bottom; the earth trembled, the rocks split, the graves opened, and the bodies of many saints who slept arose, read more. and came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared to many.
The sabbath being over, and the first day of the week beginning to dawn, Mary Magdalene, and the other Mary, came to see the sepulchre. now there had been a great earthquake; for an angel of the lord descending from heaven, was come, and had rolled away the stone from the door, and was sitting upon it. read more. his aspect was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow. for fear of whom the keepers shook, and were almost struck dead. but the angel spoke to the woman, and said, don't be frighted, I know you are seeking Jesus, who was crucified. he is not here: he is risen according to his word: come, see the place where the Lord was laid. then go immediately to tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and that, he goes before you into Galilee, there shall ye see it is him; 'tis I that say it.
and he healed many that were variously affected with diseases, and cast out many demons, not allowing them to say that they knew him.
then they came and presented to him a paralytic, who had four men to carry him. who finding it impossible to come nigh Him because of the press, uncovered the roof where He was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the cradle wherein the paralytic lay. read more. Jesus perceiving their faith, said to the sick of the palsy, son, thy sins are forgiven. but there were certain of the Scribes sitting there, who were dissatisfied in their own minds, and said to themselves, why doth this man speak such blasphemies? who can forgive sins but God? and immediately Jesus perceiving by his spirit, that they made these secret reflections, said, why do you entertain such suggestions? is it not as easy to say to the paralytic, thy sins are forgiven: as to say, arise, and take up your bed and walk? however, to let you see that the son of man has power on earth to forgive sins, rise, said he, to the sick of the palsy, 'tis I command you, take up thy bed, and go to your home. instantly he arose, took up the bed, and went out in the presence of them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, we never saw any thing like this.
Jesus taking him aside from the crowd, spit upon his fingers, and applied them to the ears and to the tongue of the deaf man. then looking up to heaven, with a sigh, he said, Ephphata, that is, be open: read more. and his Ears were instantly opened, his tongue was loosen'd, and he spoke freely.
Afterwards Jesus went to Bethsaida, where they presented to him a blind man, whom they entreated Jesus to touch. then taking the blind man by the hand, he led him out of town, when applying his spittle to the man's eyes, and laying his hands upon him, he ask'd if he saw any thing. read more. so looking up, he said, I see men; for by their walking I distinguish them from trees. then he put his hands upon his eyes, and made him look again. and his sight was so well recovered, he could see distinctly.
having finished his sermon, he said to Simon, row into deep water, and throw out your nets for a draught. master, said Simon, we have toil'd all the night, without any prize: however, since you give the word, I will throw the net. read more. which being done, they enclosed such a multitude of fish, the net began to break:
At length he came down the hill with them, and stayed with the rest of his disciples in the plain, where a great multitude of people from all Judea, from Jerusalem, and the maritime country of Tyre and Sidon, came to hear him, and to have their diseases cured. many that were tormented by evil spirits came likewise, and were cured. read more. so that all the people strove to touch him: for a divine virtue flowed from him, which healed them all.
then advancing, he touch'd the bier, and the bearers standing still, he said, young man, arise, I command you. and the deceased sat up, and began to speak, and Jesus delivered him to his mother.
at that very time, he cured several of their diseases and distempers, dispossessing evil spirits, and restoring sight to many that were blind. then he gave them this answer, go, and tell John what you have seen, and heard: that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are healed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the gospel is proclaim'd to the poor.
and heal the sick you find there. tell the inhabitants the kingdom of God is drawing nigh unto them.
At length the seventy return'd with great joy, saying, Lord, even the demons have been made subject to us by virtue of your name.
who had been kept infirm by a spirit eighteen years: and stooped in such a manner, she was not able to hold up her head strait. Jesus seeing her, called her to him, and said, woman you are freed from your disorder. read more. then he laid his hands upon her: and instantly she stood upright, and glorified God.
now there happen'd to be a man just by him, who had a dropsy. Jesus therefore addressing himself to the doctors of the law, and to the Pharisees, said, is it allowable to perform a cure on the sabbath-day? to which they made no answer. read more. but he laid his hand upon the man, cured him, and dismissed him.
as soon as he perceiv'd them, he said to them, go shew yourselves to the priests. and on the way they found themselves cured.
and one of them struck a servant of the high priest, and slash'd off his right ear. but Jesus oppos'd, and said, forbear, stop there. and having touch'd his ear, he healed him.
he is not here, but is risen: remember what he told you, when he was yet in Galilee,
now there were six cisterns of stone plac'd there for the use of the Jews in their purifications, containing two or three firkins a-piece. these Jesus order'd the waiters to fill with water. so they filled them up to the brim. read more. now fill out, said he, and carry it to the steward of the feast, which accordingly they did. as soon as the steward had tasted the water that was made wine, (for he did not know whence it came, but the servants who drew the water knew it,) he called the bridegroom, and said to him, 'tis usual to present the best wine first, and afterwards the worse, when the guests have drank pretty freely: but you have reserved the best wine to the last.
Jesus went therefore a second time to Cana in Galilee, where he had changed the water into wine. now a certain nobleman was there, whose son was sick at Capernaum. who having heard that Jesus was come out of Judea into Galilee, he went there to desire him to come down, and heal his son: for he was at the point of death. read more. but Jesus said to him, except you see signs and miracles, you will not believe. the nobleman said to him, sir, pray come down before my child be dead. go thy way, said Jesus: thy son is well. and the man believed what Jesus had said to him, and went his way. as he was upon the road, his servants met him, and acquainted him, that his son was well. then he enquired of them the hour when he began to mend: and they answered, yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him. so the father knew that it was at the very same hour, at which Jesus said to him, thy son is well. and he himself believed, and all his family.
now a certain man was there, who had been sick eight and thirty years. Jesus seeing him lie there, and knowing that he had been sick a long time, said to him, will you be cured? read more. the sick man answered him, sir, I have nobody to put me into the pool when the water has been agitated: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me. rise, said Jesus to him, take up thy bed, and go your way. and immediately the man was healed, and took up his bed, and went his way: but that day being the sabbath,
then they readily received him into the ship: and immediately the ship was at the land whither they were bound.
As Jesus passed by, he saw a man that was born blind. and his disciples propos'd to him this question, master, was it for his own sins, or for the sins of his parents, that he was born blind? read more. it was not for any sin of his, said Jesus, or of his parents: but that the works of God might be displayed thro' him. I must perform the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night is coming, when no man can work. while I am in the world, I am the light of the world. having said this, he spit on the ground, which by means of his saliva he made into clay, wherewith he anointed the eyes of the blind man, and said to him, go wash in the pool of Siloam (a word which signifies sent.) so he went and washed, and came seeing.
the Jews came about him, and said, how long will you keep us in suspense? if you are the Messiah, tell us plainly. Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye did not believe me: the works that I do in my father's name, they testify of me. read more. but, as I said before, you do not believe; because ye are not of my sheep. my sheep hear my voice, I know them, and they follow me.
when he had spoke this, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth. and he that was dead came forth, his body wrapt in a winding sheet: and his face bound about with a napkin. loose him, said Jesus, and let him go.
The same day at evening, being the first day of the week, the doors of the house where the disciples were, being shut, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, and said to them, peace be with you.
Eight days after, when his disciples were again in private, and Thomas with them: Jesus came, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, peace be with you.
Jesus said to him, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they who have not seen, and yet have believed.
but these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Messias, the son of God, and that believing ye might have life through his name.
they answered him, no. and he said to them, cast the net on the right side of the vessel, and ye shall find. so they cast it, and it was so full of fish they were not able to draw it.
When the day of pentecost was come, they all met together with one accord. when all of a sudden there came a sound from heaven, like that of an impetuous wind, which filled all the house where they were. read more. and there appeared several little flames, and sat upon each of them: and they were all filled with the holy ghost, and began to speak in different languages, as the spirit gave them utterance. now many devout Jews were residing at Jerusalem, who came from all quarters of the world. and upon the rumour of this event, the multitude came together, and were confounded, every man hearing the disciples speak in his own language. struck with astonishment and admiration, they said to one another, are not these men who are speaking, all Galileans? how comes it then that we hear every man talking in our own native tongue? Parthians, Medes, Elamites, the inhabitants of Mesopotamia, Judea, Cappadocia, Pontus, Asia, Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt, the parts of Libya about Cyrene, foreigners from Rome, Jews, and proselytes, Cretes, and Arabians, we hear them all proclaiming in our tongues the wonderful works of God.
'tis this Jesus whom God hath raised up, of which we all are witnesses.
and all the people were allarm'd at the many prodigies and miracles which were done by the apostles.
and taking him by the right hand, he lift him up; and immediately his feet and ancle-bones received strength.
at these words Ananias fell down dead upon the spot: which struck the minds of all that heard of it with great dread.
in the instant she fell down dead at his feet: and the young men came in, found her dead, carried her out, and buried her by her husband.
Thus were many signs and wonders wrought among the people, by the apostles, who us'd to meet in Solomon's porch with great unanimity:
insomuch that they brought the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least, the shadow of Peter might cover some of them, as he pass'd by. multitudes came likewise from the neighbouring cities to Jerusalem, bringing their sick, and those who were tormented with impure spirits: who were all cured.
but an angel of the Lord opened the prison-doors by night, and having brought them out, said to them,
Now Stephen full of grace and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.
the people attended with great unanimity, hearing his discourses, and observing the miracles he wrought. for the impure spirits, with great outcries, came out of many that were possessed: many paralytic, and lame people were cured.
nay, Simon himself became a proselyte: and after he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and was transported at the sight of the miracles and prodigies which he perform'd.
Peter said to him, Eneas, Jesus, who is the Messiah, gives thee health: rise, and make your bed your self: upon which he immediately rose.
but Peter turn'd them all out, and kneeled down and prayed, then turning towards the body, Tabitha, said he, arise immediately. she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.
now the very night preceding the day which Herod design'd for his execution, Peter bound with two chains, was sleeping between two soldiers, while the other guards secured the prison door; when an angel of the Lord suddenly appear'd and fill'd the room with light, and touching Peter on the side, awak'd him, saying, rise, be quick. and immediately his chains fell from his hands. read more. put on your girdle, continu'd the angel, and bind on your sandals: which he did. throw your cloak over you, said the angel, and follow me. so he went out after the angel without knowing that what the angel had done, was real; but thinking it was all a vision. when they had pass'd the first and second guard, they came to the iron-gate that leads to the city, which open'd to them of itself: so they went out and pass'd together thro' one street: when all of a sudden the angel quitted Peter. Then coming to himself; now,
his hand is falling upon thee, thou shalt be blind, and not see the sun for some time." immediately his eyes were covered with obscurity and darkness; so that he grop'd about for somebody to lead him by the hand.
however the apostles stay'd there a considerable time, being inspir'd with great resolution by the Lord, who gave his attestation to the evangelical doctrine, by the prodigys and miracles, which he did by their hands.
he said to him aloud, rise and stand right upon your feet: upon which he leap'd up and walk'd.
this she did for several days, till Paul tir'd with it turn'd about, and said to the spirit, in the name of Jesus Christ I command you to quit her; and instantly he came out.
At midnight Paul and Silas went to prayers, and sang praises to God, which the other prisoners heard: when all of a sudden there was such a great earthquake, that the foundations of the prison were shaken: immediately all the doors opened, and the setters dropp'd from the prisoners.
the miracles which God wrought by the ministry of Paul being of such an extraordinary nature, that by applying the handkerchiefs, or aprons that had touch'd his skin, to the distemper'd, they were cured, and the evil spirits came out of the possessed.
so Paul went down, and stooping over him, he embraced him, and said, don't trouble your selves; for his life is in him. then Paul went up again, and having broken bread and eaten, he reassumed his discourse till break of day, and then departed. read more. but the young man was brought in alive and well, to the joy of the whole assembly. As for us, we embark'd, and sail'd to Assos,
but Paul shook off the animal into the fire without having receiv'd any hurt.
Publius's father happening then to lie sick of a fever, and a dysentery, Paul made him a visit, pray'd by him, gave him imposition of hands, and cur'd him. upon this several that were indispos'd in the island came to Paul, and were cur'd,
he perform'd great wonders, so as to make fire come down from heaven on the earth, in the sight of men. and he deceived the inhabitants of the earth, by the prodigys which he had power to effect by the influence of the beast, by telling the inhabitants of the earth, that he had made an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, but yet did revive.
Easton
an event in the external world brought about by the immediate agency or the simple volition of God, operating without the use of means capable of being discerned by the senses, and designed to authenticate the divine commission of a religious teacher and the truth of his message (Joh 2:18; Mt 12:38). It is an occurrence at once above nature and above man. It shows the intervention of a power that is not limited by the laws either of matter or of mind, a power interrupting the fixed laws which govern their movements, a supernatural power.
The suspension or violation of the laws of nature involved in miracles is nothing more than is constantly taking place around us. One force counteracts another: vital force keeps the chemical laws of matter in abeyance; and muscular force can control the action of physical force. When a man raises a weight from the ground, the law of gravity is neither suspended nor violated, but counteracted by a stronger force. The same is true as to the walking of Christ on the water and the swimming of iron at the command of the prophet. The simple and grand truth that the universe is not under the exclusive control of physical forces, but that everywhere and always there is above, separate from and superior to all else, an infinite personal will, not superseding, but directing and controlling all physical causes, acting with or without them. God ordinarily effects his purpose through the agency of second causes; but he has the power also of effecting his purpose immediately and without the intervention of second causes, i.e., of invading the fixed order, and thus of working miracles. Thus we affirm the possibility of miracles, the possibility of a higher hand intervening to control or reverse nature's ordinary movements.
In the New Testament these four Greek words are principally used to designate miracles: (1.) Semeion, a "sign", i.e., an evidence of a divine commission; an attestation of a divine message (Mt 12:38-39; 16:1,4; Mr 8:11; Lu 11:16; 23:8; Joh 2:11,18,23; Ac 6:8, etc.); a token of the presence and working of God; the seal of a higher power.
(2.) Terata, "wonders;" wonder-causing events; portents; producing astonishment in the beholder (Ac 2:19).
(3.) Dunameis, "might works;" works of superhuman power (Ac 2:22; Ro 15:19; 2Th 2:9); of a new and higher power.
(4.) Erga, "works;" the works of Him who is "wonderful in working" (Joh 5:20,36).
Miracles are seals of a divine mission. The sacred writers appealed to them as proofs that they were messengers of God. Our Lord also appealed to miracles as a conclusive proof of his divine mission (Joh 5:20,36; 10:25,38). Thus, being out of the common course of nature and beyond the power of man, they are fitted to convey the impression of the presence and power of God. Where miracles are there certainly God is. The man, therefore, who works a miracle affords thereby clear proof that he comes with the authority of God; they are his credentials that he is God's messenger. The teacher points to these credentials, and they are a proof that he speaks with the authority of God. He boldly says, "God bears me witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles."
The credibility of miracles is established by the evidence of the senses on the part of those who are witnesses of them, and to all others by the testimony of such witnesses. The witnesses were competent, and their testimony is trustworthy. Unbelievers, following Hume, deny that any testimony can prove a miracle, because they say miracles are impossible. We have shown that miracles are possible, and surely they can be borne witness to. Surely they are credible when we have abundant and trustworthy evidence of their occurrence. They are credible just as any facts of history well authenticated are credible. Miracles, it is said, are contrary to experience. Of course they are contrary to our experience, but that does not prove that they were contrary to the experience of those who witnessed them. We believe a thousand facts, both of history and of science, that are contrary to our experience, but we believe them on the ground of competent testimony. An atheist or a pantheist must, as a matter of course, deny the possibility of miracles; but to one who believes in a personal God, who in his wisdom may see fit to interfere with the ordinary processes of nature, miracles are not impossible, nor are they incredible.
See Verses Found in Dictionary
Then certain of the Scribes and of the Pharisees said, master, we should be glad you would shew us some miracle.
Then certain of the Scribes and of the Pharisees said, master, we should be glad you would shew us some miracle. but he answered them, this wicked degenerate race demand a miracle; but no other miracle shall they have, except that of the prophet Jonas.
Then the Pharisees and the Sadducees came, with a captious design, and desired him to show them some miracle in the sky.
a wicked degenerate race demand a miracle; but no miracle shall they have beside that of the prophet Jonas. and so leaving them, he went away.
there the Pharisees being come, they began to dispute with him, and to try him, desir'd he would work some miracle in the sky.
others, to try him, desir'd he would show some miraculous sign in the heaven.
When Herod saw Jesus he was extremely pleased; for he had long desired to see him, having heard much of him, and hoped to see him perform some miracle.
thus was the first miracle of Jesus wrought at Cana in Galilee, by which he displayed his power; and his disciples believed on him.
whereupon the Jews said, what miracle can you show to justify your behaviour?
whereupon the Jews said, what miracle can you show to justify your behaviour?
Now whilst he was in Jerusalem at the feast of the passover, many believed in him when they saw the miracles which he did.
for the father loveth the son, and sheweth him all that he himself doth: and he will shew him greater works than these, so that you will be surprized.
for the father loveth the son, and sheweth him all that he himself doth: and he will shew him greater works than these, so that you will be surprized.
but I have a better witness than that of John: for the works which my father hath order'd me to finish, those very works that I do, bear me witness, that 'tis the father who sent me.
but I have a better witness than that of John: for the works which my father hath order'd me to finish, those very works that I do, bear me witness, that 'tis the father who sent me.
Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye did not believe me: the works that I do in my father's name, they testify of me.
but if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works: that ye may know and believe that the father is in me, and I in him.
and I will shew prodigies in the heavens, and signs on the earth; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke.
ye men of Israel attend to what I say; Jesus of Nazareth was a man whom God distinguished among you, by miracles, by prodigies, and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as you your selves also know:
Now Stephen full of grace and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.
by virtue of the miracles and prodigies wrought by the power of the divine spirit; so that from Jerusalem, and the neighbouring country, quite to Illyricum,