by Nikolaus Federmann

Created on: January 08, 2009

According to C.S. Lewis, if we first believe that miracles are not impossible in the natural world, then the "existing evidence will be sufficient to convince us that quite a number of miracles have occurred."(a) Based on the Biblical accounts alone, there are those of faith who believe that miracles have occurred - and will continue - even though such people have not personally witnessed a miracle.

The miracles in the New Testament, as performed by Jesus and the Apostles, were special displays of the ultimate power of God. By these, the Everlasting Father is distinguished from a sin-darkened world by demonstrations of unlimited power and mercy. His ways extend far beyond the reach of discovery, even while the scientific community attempts the impossible task of establishing a complete understanding of the mysterious works of nature.

In certain cities, more miracles were performed. Christ denounced such places(Matthew 11:21) because the witnessing of many wonders of mercy should have led to widespread repentance.(Romans 2:4) These denouncements weighed heavily on the areas spoken of, considering how the inhabitants had sinned against much light, which illustrated their contempt for the goodness of God.

In Galatians 3, Paul related how, not only did the Son minister in the Spirit, but the Father gave evidence to the message of salvation "by signs, wonders and various miracles".(Hebrews 2:4) Not because the Jews had observed the law, but because there were those present who believed the message of the gospel.(Galatians 3:5) John 2:23 states, "many people saw the miraculous signs he was doing and believed in his name".

In addition to miracles performed by Jesus and the Apostles that might be considered typical, there were also events that were clearly out of the ordinary. Such miracles were associated with more considerable measures of faith. For example, a woman who had suffered from an illness for twelve years thought to herself, "If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole."(Matthew 9:21) Jesus had not seen her approach from behind to touch the "edge of his cloak". She was healed instantly, and Jesus noticed that power had gone out of him. (Luke 8:44,46) She had "faith to be healed" which the Lord took notice of after the fact.(Acts 14:9)

Where there is much faith, there can be many wonders. Even miracles of healing that shine brightly in a world darkened by sin.

a. C.S. Lewis. Miracles. London, England: G. Bles, 1947.

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