Introduction:

In our current culture there has been a revival of interest in the miraculous as evidenced by television programs. Americans love programs like: Touched by an Angel, Miracles, Joan of Arcadia, Dark Angel, etc. When it comes to the church, you can actually boost attendance by promising healing and miracle services. People crave the miraculous!

Objective:

The objective of tonight's sermon is to examine what the Bible says about miracles and to determine whether or not we can expect miracles today.

Theological definition:
A miracle is a supernatural event that is contrary to the laws of nature.

I. Miracles in Scripture are Often Called "Signs and Wonders."

A. Exodus 7:3
B. Deuteronomy 6:22; 34:11
C. Nehemiah 9:10
D. Psalm 135:9
E. Jeremiah 32:21
F. Daniel 6:27
G. John 4:48
H. Acts 2:43
I. Romans 15:19
J. II Corinthians 12:12
K. Hebrews 2:4

II. When Has God Used Miracles?

A. Miracles have introduced new eras of revelation.

1. Moses (writer of the first five books of the Bible)
2. Elijah & Elisha (Introduced the prophetic age)
3. Apostles (Wrote nearly all of the New Testament)

Other examples:

a. Hezekiah's healing (involved the prophet Isaiah)
b. Fiery Furnace (involved the prophet Daniel)

B. Miracles authenticated God's messengers.

C. Miracles called attention to new revelation from God.

III. Do Miracles Happen Today?

It is not likely. God's revelation to man is complete. We have the entire Bible and its message has already been authenticated. However it must be remembered, "All things are possible with God." Matthew 19.26.

Illustration:
1. Is it a miracle when we pray for God to meet a financial need and the mail carrier brings a check on the precise day the money is needed?

2. Is it a miracle when you call a friend at the precise moment they need encouragement?

Discuss modern faith healers.

IV. How Does God Work Today?
God works through His Divine Providence just as He did throughout the Bible.

Theological Definition:
God's Providence is His loving care over His creation and His creatures through natural processes.

V. What the Bible Says about Providence.
A. Proverbs 16:4a
B. Proverbs 16:9
C. Proverbs 16:33
D. Proverbs 21:30
E. Psalm 135:6
F. Romans 8:28

VI. Examples of God's Providence in the Bible.
A. Jonah ( Jonah 1:4; 1:17; 2:10; 4:6-8.)
B. Joseph ( Genesis 45:4-8 )
C. Ruth ( Ruth 2:12; 2:20 )
D. Esther ( Esther 4:14 )
E. Paul ( Acts 23:12-16 )

Conclusion:

Miracles are rare but God's providences are not! Perhaps you have been discouraged because you believe the answer to your prayers will take a miracle. It doesn't have to take a miracle my friend; it may just be a matter of God's Providence! Don't be discouraged! Persist in prayer!

Pastor David Paszkiewicz.