The Miracles of the First Century Continued ~ Part Two
By Bob W. Lovelace
An inquirer asks:
Does God still do miracles today through men of God and apostles?
Introduction: Such questions stem from, I’m convinced, people’s awareness that the so-called “miracles” performed by faith healers today are obviously the works of frauds. They can see that their so-called miracles are not of the same nature as those recorded in the New Testament. The request asks if the New Testament miracles performed by men came to an end?
Part Two:
A List of the miracles in the New
Testament
For further study I have listed miracles you find recorded in the book of Acts. There are several of these and I ask you to consider carefully their “nature” in contrast to the supposed miraculous works of faith healers today.
Speaking in Tongues, Acts 2:4
Acts 2:1-4,
"And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. [2] And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. [3] And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. [4] And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance."
Distinctive characteristics:
The day of Pentecost recorded here is the day upon which the church was established. The events recorded here involve the miraculous working of God. The miracle of speaking in tongues was simply speaking in real languages that people spoke. Note that "…everyone heard them speak in his own language” (Acts 2:6, 8,11) This miracle was the result of the Apostles’ receiving the promise of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:4 states, “as the Spirit gave them utterance” showing that the miracle was in the Apostles’ speaking not in the peoples’ hearing.
The Apostles receiving the baptism
of the Holy Spirit was a “promise” and not a command: Acts 1:4-5, “And, being
assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from
Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have
heard of me. [5] For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized
with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.” The Scriptures teach that Jesus is
the one who would give this baptism, not man (Matt.
The Apostles received the Holy Spirit as promised for the following purposes:
To
guide them into “all” truth, John
John 16:13,
“Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.”
We must remember that “all truth” was revealed in the first century else Jesus lied! (Compare Jude 3; 2 Tim. 3:16-17; II Peter 1:3).
That
they might confirm the Word, Mark 16:17-20
Mark 16:17-20,
“And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; [18] They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. [19] So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. [20] And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.”
The Apostles received the Holy
Spirit in order that they might perform signs and miracles to confirm that
their word was from God. The word was “confirmed” in the first century! The
word “follow” (Mark
To
bear witness of Christ, Acts 1:8
Acts 1:8,
"But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon
you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in
The word “witness” (Martus or
Martur) “denotes one who can or does aver what he has seen or heard or knows“
(An Expository dictionary of New Testament Words, W.E. Vine). This was Peter’s
use of the miracle in Acts 3 in healing the lame man. Note Acts 3:12-17,
"And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of
The
accompanying command that was preached, Acts
Acts
'Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost."
Thus one important distinction is
the accompanying “command” that was preached as a result of them having
received the Holy Spirit. This important command that was a part of “preaching Christ” in the first century is
plainly missing among so called faith healers today! (See Acts
The gift of Healing, Acts 3:1-8
Acts 3:1-11,
"Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour. [2] And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; [3] Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. [4] And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. [5] And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. [6] Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. [7] And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ancle bones received strength. [8] And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God. [9] And all the people saw him walking and praising God: [10] And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him. [11] And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly wondering."
Distinctive
characteristics:
Here is a typical example of the “authenticity” of the miracles of the New Testament. Please read the above carefully. Notice in verse 10 that the man and his condition was well known. The man was over forty years old on whom the miracle of healing had been performed (Acts 4:22). Peter did not talk him into setting in a wheel chair and acting like he could not walk! The man praised God for His power wrought in healing him of this infirmity that was from birth. Televisions' evangelists often present individuals jumping around, leaping, and praising God’s power but the “signs” are obviously false. And the men who perform them are frauds.
Enemies did not deny a noted miracle had been performed, Acts
4:16
As we read further concerning this miracle and its effect we learn that even the enemies of Christ and of the Gospel did not deny that a notable miracle had been performed:
Acts 4:15-22,
"But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves, [16] Saying, What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it. [17] But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this name. [18] And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. [19] But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. [20] For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard. [21] So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men glorified God for that which was done. [22] For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing was shewed."
The deaths of Ananias & Saphirra, Acts 5:1-11
Acts 5:1-11,
"But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, [2] And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet. [3] But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? [4] Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. [5] And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things. [6] And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him. [7] And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in. [8] And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much. [9] Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out. [10] Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband. [11] And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard these things."
Distinctive characteristics:
This was a time when the Holy Spirit communicated directly with the Apostles. The Holy Spirit obviously told Peter what Ananias did not think He would know, i.e. that he had lied to God. Notice that the Holy Spirit is not an “it” but rather a person of the Godhead. He is God! For other instances where the Holy Spirit spoke directly to individuals compare Acts 8:29 (Philip), Acts 10:19 (Peter), and Acts 16:6-7 where we find another example of the Holy Spirit working in the first century.
They were all healed, Acts 5:12-16
Acts 5:12-16,
"And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon's porch. [13] And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them. [14] And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.) [15] Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them. [16] There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one."
Distinct characteristics:
I recall reading in 1997 about a charismatic preacher who was run out of Cambodia. He had advertised, as many do, that the blind would see and the lame would walk. One angry demonstrator was quoted as saying the people had sold their possessions for the trip to Phenom Phen and nothing had happened to them! Each of us is intelligent enough to understand the implications of, “and they were healed every one.” The point here is that God made it plain! Yes, he made it plain that these were miracles! I might add there was no slapping them in the forehead and having two body guards catch them either!
While here let’s compare the “unusual” miracles worked by Paul at Ephesus a great center if idolatry, paganism and the occult: Acts 19:11-12, "And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul: [12] So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them."
Once again, what is the point? That God made it very plain!
Stephen’s vision just before his death, Acts 7:55-56
Acts 7:54-56,
"When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. [55] But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, [56] And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God."
Distinct
characteristics:
This was a time when men saw visions. Visions guided into truth and enabled men to testify of Christ as Stephen did (Cp. Acts 10:11, 16; Rev. 4:1).
The people both heard the word and saw
the miracles, Acts 8:5-6
Acts 8:5-8,
"Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. [6] And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. [7] For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed. [8] And there was great joy in that city."
Distinct characteristics:
The people in the city of Samaria where Philip preached Christ “both” heard the word and saw the miracles he did.
The
accompanying command that was preached, Acts 8:12-13
Acts 8:12-13,
"But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. [13] Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done."
Again we notice the accompanying command that was preached by those who had received the Holy Spirit. To “preach Christ” as Philip did in the first century is to preach immersion (baptism) in water for the remission of sins (Cp. Acts 2:38, 8:35-39). And this important command is plainly missing among so called faith healers today.
Those who obeyed are christians but
had not received the Spirit, Acts 8:14-18
Acts 8:14-18,
"Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: [15] Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: [16] (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) [17] Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost. [18] And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money,"
While there are other christians with Philip now in Samaria as a result of their obedience to the Gospel (compare Acts 18:8), only Philip has the ability to perform signs and miracles. The reason why they had to send two apostles, Peter and John, was so they might lay their hands on them that they might receive the Holy Spirit!
What Simon saw, Acts 8:18-21
Acts 8:18-21,
"And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, [19] Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost. [20] But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. [21] Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God."
The only men in the church who had the ability to impart spiritual gifts to others was the Apostles. With the death of the Apostles there are no such men today with this power!
Directions were given by angels to
those who preached, Acts 8:26-29
Acts 8:26-29,
"And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert. [27] And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, [28] Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet. [29] Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot."
Distinct characteristics:
This was a time when directions were given by angels to those who preached. (Cp. Acts 27:22-26, concerning Paul before the shipwreck at Malta)
The
accompanying command that was preached, Acts 8:35-39
Acts 8:35-39,
"Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. [36] And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? [37] And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. [38] And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. [39] And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing."
Again we notice the accompanying command that was preached by those who had received the Holy Spirit. To “preach Christ” as Philip did in the first century is to preach immersion (baptism) in water for the remission of one’s sins. The word “baptized” is the word “BAPTISMA” meansing “baptism, consisting of the process of immersion, submersion and emergence” (An Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, by W.E. Vine). For the eunuch to be baptized it necessitated them going down into the water, and he baptized him, and when they had come up out of the water then the eunuch went on his way rejoicing. Notice that the “joy” of salvation follows or comes after one’s baptism (Cp. Rom. 6:4-6, I Peter 3:21).
Philip was caught away by the Spirit,
Acts 8:39
Acts 8:39,
"And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing."
Distinct characteristics:
The words “caught away” carry the thought of being conveyed or transported by the Spirit to another place. Think about this one!
A time when Jesus spoke directly from
Heaven to some, Acts 9:3-9
Acts 9:3-9,
"And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: [4] And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? [5] And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. [6] And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. [7] And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. [8] And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. [9] And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink."
Distinct characteristics:
This was a time when Jesus spoke directly from Heaven to some. Of course, this concerns Saul’s calling that he might become an apostle of Christ. Paul would receive instruction on what he must do to be saved from a certain disciple named Ananias. The Lord spoke to Ananias as well. Compare Acts 9:10-19 with Paul’s own account in Acts 22:10-16,
Acts 22:10-16,
"And I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said unto me, Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do. [11] And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus. [12] And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there, [13] Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him. [14] And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth. [15] For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard. [16] And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord."
The
accompanying command that was preached, Acts 9:18, 22:16
Once again we notice that the important accompanying command that was preached was baptism in order that one might have their sins washed away (Cp. Mark 16:15-16, Acts 2:38; I Pet. 3:21).
Aeneas in Lydda illustrates the point
of our lesson, Acts 9:32-35
Acts 9:32-35,
"And it came to pass, as Peter passed throughout all quarters, he came down also to the saints which dwelt at Lydda. [33] And there he found a certain man named Aeneas, which had kept his bed eight years, and was sick of the palsy. [34] And Peter said unto him, Aeneas, Jesus Christ maketh thee whole: arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately. [35] And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Lord."
Tabitha or Dorcas was raised from the
dead, Acts 9:36-43
Acts 9:36-43,
"Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. [37] And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber. [38] And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them. [39] Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them. [40] But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up. [41] And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive. [42] And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord. [43] And it came to pass, that he tarried many days in Joppa with one Simon a tanner."
Distinct characteristics:
Why won't these faith healers today go to the hospitals, etc. where people are sick and dying and do works there? Why do they need a staged performance? (Cp. Acts 20:9,12) And what is the point? That Peter raised Dorcas from the dead thus God made it very plain!
Cornelius’ household spoke in tongues,
Acts 10:44
Acts 10:34-48,
"Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: [35] But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. [36] The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) [37] That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; [38] How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. [39] And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: [40] Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; [41] Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. [42] And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. [43] To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. [44] While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. [45] And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.[46] For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, [47] Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? [48] And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days."
Distinct characteristics:
When the Holy Spirit fell on the Gentiles here they were not saved at the point of speaking in Tongues for Peter has yet to command them to be baptized, Acts 10:22, 33, 11:14. Notice that Acts 11:14 states that it would be Peter “who will tell you words by which you and all your household will be saved“ (Cp. 10:6 “...tell you what you must do.”) The apostle Peter would TELL and those yet to be christians would HEAR and obey! The simple message of the bible is Hear, Believe and Obey (Cp. Acts 18:8). Acts 11:15 identifies that they (the Gentiles gathered to hear Peter speak words whereby they would be saved) received the same gift as the Apostles at the beginning, i.e. Tongues. But what they received was not to the same degree nor for the same purpose as that which the Apostles received on Pentecost for an Apostle, Peter, still had to instruct them and command them to be baptized to be saved (Acts 10:22,33,11:14, 10:48). There is no other recorded instance of Cornelius and his household using a spiritul gift. Acts 10:46 tells us what they did at this time. They spoke with tongues and magnified (praised) God.
The purpose for the Gentiles on this occasion receiving the Spirit and speaking in tongues is stated in 10:47. It was a “sign” to the Jews present that God had acknowledged the Gentiles and they were worthy of the kingdom of Christ (see 11:17, 15:8-9). This occasion is an example of the Spirit guiding into all truth (John 16:13).
The
accompanying command that was preached, Acts 10:6, 48
Once again we notice that the important accompanying command that was preached was baptism (Cp. Mark 16:15-16, Acts 2:38; 8:12-13, 8:35-39, 9: 18, 22:16, I Pet. 3:21).
Peter freed from Prison by an angel,
Acts 12:7-17
Acts 12:7-17,
"And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands. [8] And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me. [9] And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision. [10] When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him. [11] And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews. [12] And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying. [13] And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda. [14] And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate. [15] And they said unto her, Thou art mad. But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It is his angel. [16] But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished. [17] But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place."
Elymas the sorcerer struck blind, Acts
13:9-12
Acts 13:8-12,
"But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith. [9] Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him, [10] And said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord? [11] And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand. [12] Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord."
Distinct
characteristics:
Paul certainly had the miraculous ability to do this. Perhaps the so called faith healers today need to be questioned as to why they cannot “reverse” the process so to speak?
The healing of the cripple in Lystra
who had never walked, Acts 14:8-18
Acts 14:8-18,
"And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked: [9] The same heard Paul speak: who stedfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed, [10] Said with a loud voice, Stand upright on thy feet. And he leaped and walked. [11] And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men. [12] And they called Barnabas, Jupiter; and Paul, Mercurius, because he was the chief speaker. [13] Then the priest of Jupiter, which was before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the gates, and would have done sacrifice with the people. [14] Which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out, [15] And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein: [16] Who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways. [17] Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness. [18] And with these sayings scarce restrained they the people, that they had not done sacrifice unto them."
Distinct characteristics:
Notice the emphasis again on “from his mother’s womb, who had never walked” (Cp. Acts 3:2).
A viper lifted up on Paul’s hand, Acts
28:1-6
Acts 28:1-6,
"And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called Melita. [2] And the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because of the cold. [3] And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand. [4] And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live. [5] And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm. [6] Howbeit they looked when he should have swollen, or fallen down dead suddenly: but after they had looked a great while, and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god."
Distinct
characteristics:
The poisonous viper that attached itself to Paul’s hand was unable to harm him. Jesus had promised, “They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover” (Mark 16:18). This is an example of the fulfillment of Jesus' promise. Today, when you see an interview of those who practice “snake handling” you see some with scars and some with fingers missing, etc. And you hear their report of how many had died having been bitten! Those who practice such today are yet another class of those who are without a proper understanding of the purpose and duration of the miracles of the New Testament.
Conclusion
Having mentioned Mark 16:18 it would be fitting to note again the commission and command given to the Apostle that preceded the “signs” listed in verses seventeen and eighteen.
“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel
to every creature. [16] He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but
he that believeth not shall be damned” (Mark
Bob W. Lovelace