Signs and wonders in Scripture refer to miraculous acts performed by God to reveal His glory, confirm His message, and authenticate His messengers. These events are called “signs” because they point to something greater than the act itself, namely, the truth and authority of God. They are called “wonders” because they produce awe and astonishment.
In the Old Testament, God performed signs and wonders to deliver Israel and to demonstrate His power over false gods. Deuteronomy 6:22 says:
“And the Lord showed signs and wonders before our eyes, great and severe, against Egypt.”
In the New Testament, signs and wonders marked the ministry of Jesus and the early church. They confirmed that the message preached was from God. Acts 2:43 records:
“Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles.”
The purpose of signs and wonders was never entertainment or self-exaltation. They were always tied to the truth of the Gospel and the glory of God. Hebrews 2:3–4 says:
“How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation… God also bearing witness both with signs and wonders, with various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit.”
However, Scripture also warns that not all signs come from God. Satan is capable of performing lying signs and wonders to deceive. Jesus warned in Matthew 24:24:
“For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.”
True signs will always align with the Word of God and point to Christ. False signs elevate men or promote error. Believers are not to chase after wonders but to remain grounded in Scripture. Faith that depends on miracles is shallow. John 4:48 says:
“Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will by no means believe.”
God may still perform signs and wonders, but they are never to replace the authority of Scripture or the sufficiency of Christ. They are subject to God’s will, not man’s demand.