Miracles: Signs of Faith and Divine Authority
Summary
In today's reflection, we journeyed through the miraculous works of Jesus and the apostles, focusing on the stories of healing and resurrection that demonstrate the divine authority and power bestowed upon Jesus and later, his disciples. We began by revisiting two significant miracles from Jesus' ministry: the healing of the paralyzed man and the raising of Jairus' daughter. These acts were not just displays of compassion but served as profound affirmations of Jesus' divine identity and authority. They were tangible proofs that Jesus was indeed the Messiah, capable of forgiving sins and conquering death.
We then transitioned to the Acts of the Apostles, where Peter, empowered by the Holy Spirit, performs similar miracles. In Lydda, Peter heals Aeneas, a man paralyzed for eight years, with a simple command in the name of Jesus. In Joppa, he raises Tabitha from the dead, echoing Jesus' miracle with Jairus' daughter. These acts were not merely about physical healing but were signs pointing to the greater reality of Jesus' power and the call to faith and repentance.
The miracles performed by Peter were not ends in themselves but were meant to lead people to faith in Jesus. They were a continuation of Jesus' work, demonstrating that the same power that raised the dead and healed the sick was now at work through his followers. This power, however, is not for personal gain or to make life easier but is given for the purpose of calling people to repentance and faith.
We are reminded that the ultimate healing and restoration we seek are found in Jesus. While physical healing is a sign of God's power, the true miracle is the transformation of our hearts and lives. We are all like Aeneas and Tabitha, in need of Jesus' healing touch, whether from physical ailments or spiritual death. The promise of the gospel is that through faith in Jesus, we are made alive and whole, even if the full realization of this healing awaits the final resurrection.
Key Takeaways:
1. Miracles as Proof of Divine Authority: The miracles of Jesus and the apostles serve as evidence of divine authority and identity. They are not just acts of compassion but are meant to affirm the truth of Jesus' claims and to call people to faith. The healing of the paralyzed man and the raising of Jairus' daughter are powerful demonstrations of Jesus' power to forgive sins and conquer death. [24:47]
2. Continuation of Jesus' Work through the Apostles: The miracles performed by Peter in Acts are a continuation of Jesus' work, showing that the same power is now at work through his followers. This power is not for personal gain but is given to call people to repentance and faith. The healing of Aeneas and the raising of Tabitha are signs pointing to the greater reality of Jesus' power. [31:51]
3. Purpose of Miracles: The purpose of miracles is not to fix all of life's problems but to point people to Jesus. While physical healing is a sign of God's power, the true miracle is the transformation of our hearts and lives. We are called to use the power given to us for the purpose of calling people to repentance and faith. [34:32]
4. The Ultimate Healing in Jesus: The ultimate healing and restoration we seek are found in Jesus. We are all like Aeneas and Tabitha, in need of Jesus' healing touch, whether from physical ailments or spiritual death. The promise of the gospel is that through faith in Jesus, we are made alive and whole, even if the full realization of this healing awaits the final resurrection. [45:47]
5. Faith and Repentance as the True Miracle: The true miracle is not just physical healing but the transformation of our hearts and lives through faith and repentance. We are called to turn away from other things and place our faith in Jesus alone. This is the purpose of the power given to us, to proclaim Jesus' salvation and call the world to repentance and faith. [48:23]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:30] - Introduction to Peter's Ministry
- [02:15] - Jesus Heals the Paralyzed Man
- [05:45] - The Authority to Forgive Sins
- [08:30] - Jairus' Daughter Raised
- [12:00] - Miracles as Proof of Jesus' Identity
- [15:20] - Peter's Miracles in Acts
- [18:45] - Healing of Aeneas
- [21:30] - Raising of Tabitha
- [24:00] - The Purpose of Miracles
- [27:15] - Power and Authority in Jesus' Name
- [30:40] - Faith and Repentance
- [34:00] - The Ultimate Healing in Jesus
- [37:10] - Conclusion and Prayer
- [40:00] - Benediction and Blessing
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. Luke 5:17-26 - The Healing of the Paralyzed Man
2. Luke 8:49-56 - The Raising of Jairus' Daughter
3. Acts 9:32-42 - Peter Heals Aeneas and Raises Tabitha
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Observation Questions:
1. In Luke 5:17-26, what was the reaction of the scribes and Pharisees when Jesus forgave the sins of the paralyzed man? How did Jesus respond to their thoughts? [24:47]
2. How did Jesus demonstrate his authority over death in the story of Jairus' daughter in Luke 8:49-56? What was the reaction of the people present? [27:20]
3. In Acts 9:32-42, what similarities can be observed between the miracles performed by Peter and those performed by Jesus? [31:51]
4. What was the outcome for the communities of Lydda and Joppa after witnessing the miracles performed by Peter? [29:41]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How do the miracles of Jesus and Peter serve as evidence of divine authority and identity? What does this suggest about the purpose of miracles in the early church? [34:32]
2. In what ways do the miracles performed by Peter in Acts demonstrate the continuation of Jesus' work through his followers? How does this relate to the concept of divine authority being passed on? [31:51]
3. What is the significance of the miracles not being ends in themselves but rather signs pointing to a greater reality? How does this understanding affect the way we view miracles today? [34:32]
4. How does the promise of ultimate healing and restoration in Jesus challenge or affirm your understanding of faith and repentance? [45:47]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you experienced or witnessed a "miracle" in your life. How did it impact your faith and understanding of Jesus' authority? [34:32]
2. The sermon emphasized that the true miracle is the transformation of our hearts and lives. What specific area of your life do you feel needs transformation, and how can you invite Jesus into that process? [48:23]
3. How can you actively participate in continuing Jesus' work today, using the power and authority given to you as a believer? What steps can you take to ensure your actions point others to faith and repentance? [37:22]
4. Consider the idea that the ultimate healing we seek is found in Jesus. How does this perspective influence the way you approach physical or emotional challenges in your life? [45:47]
5. The sermon mentioned that miracles are not about fixing all of life's problems but about calling people to faith. How can you shift your focus from seeking temporary relief to seeking a deeper relationship with Jesus? [34:32]
6. Reflect on the role of faith and repentance in your life. Are there areas where you need to turn away from other things and place your faith in Jesus alone? What practical steps can you take to make this shift? [48:23]
7. How can you use your personal experiences and testimony to encourage others to believe in Jesus' power and authority? Identify one person you can share your story with this week. [51:14]
Devotional
Day 1: Miracles as Evidence of Divine Authority
The miracles performed by Jesus and the apostles were not merely acts of compassion but served as profound affirmations of divine authority and identity. These miraculous events, such as the healing of the paralyzed man and the raising of Jairus' daughter, were tangible proofs that Jesus was indeed the Messiah, capable of forgiving sins and conquering death. They were designed to call people to faith, demonstrating that Jesus' claims were true and that He held power over both physical and spiritual realms. The miracles were a testament to the divine nature of Jesus and a call for people to recognize His authority and respond in faith. [24:47]
Matthew 9:6-7 (ESV): "But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins"—he then said to the paralytic—"Rise, pick up your bed and go home." And he rose and went home.
Reflection: Consider a time when you witnessed or experienced something that affirmed your faith in Jesus' authority. How did it impact your belief and actions?
Day 2: Continuation of Jesus' Work through the Apostles
The miracles performed by Peter in the Acts of the Apostles were a continuation of Jesus' work, showing that the same power was now at work through His followers. In Lydda, Peter healed Aeneas, a man paralyzed for eight years, with a simple command in the name of Jesus. In Joppa, he raised Tabitha from the dead, echoing Jesus' miracle with Jairus' daughter. These acts were not merely about physical healing but were signs pointing to the greater reality of Jesus' power and the call to faith and repentance. The apostles were empowered by the Holy Spirit to carry on the mission of Jesus, demonstrating that His work was not limited to His earthly ministry but continued through His disciples. [31:51]
Acts 5:12 (ESV): "Now many signs and wonders were regularly done among the people by the hands of the apostles. And they were all together in Solomon's Portico."
Reflection: In what ways can you continue the work of Jesus in your own life and community? How can you be a vessel of His power and love to those around you?
Day 3: Purpose of Miracles
The purpose of miracles is not to fix all of life's problems but to point people to Jesus. While physical healing is a sign of God's power, the true miracle is the transformation of our hearts and lives. The miracles performed by Jesus and the apostles were meant to lead people to faith in Jesus, demonstrating that the same power that raised the dead and healed the sick was now at work through His followers. This power is not for personal gain or to make life easier but is given for the purpose of calling people to repentance and faith. We are called to use the power given to us to proclaim Jesus' salvation and call the world to repentance and faith. [34:32]
John 20:30-31 (ESV): "Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you sought a miracle or sign from God. How did it affect your faith and understanding of His purpose for your life?
Day 4: The Ultimate Healing in Jesus
The ultimate healing and restoration we seek are found in Jesus. We are all like Aeneas and Tabitha, in need of Jesus' healing touch, whether from physical ailments or spiritual death. The promise of the gospel is that through faith in Jesus, we are made alive and whole, even if the full realization of this healing awaits the final resurrection. While physical healing is a sign of God's power, the true miracle is the transformation of our hearts and lives. We are reminded that the ultimate healing and restoration we seek are found in Jesus, and through faith in Him, we are made alive and whole. [45:47]
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (ESV): "So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen."
Reflection: What areas of your life are in need of Jesus' healing touch? How can you invite Him into those areas today?
Day 5: Faith and Repentance as the True Miracle
The true miracle is not just physical healing but the transformation of our hearts and lives through faith and repentance. We are called to turn away from other things and place our faith in Jesus alone. This is the purpose of the power given to us, to proclaim Jesus' salvation and call the world to repentance and faith. The miracles performed by Jesus and the apostles were meant to lead people to faith in Jesus, demonstrating that the same power that raised the dead and healed the sick was now at work through His followers. This power is not for personal gain or to make life easier but is given for the purpose of calling people to repentance and faith. [48:23]
Acts 3:19-20 (ESV): "Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus."
Reflection: Is there an area of your life where you need to repent and turn back to God? What steps can you take today to align your heart with His will?
Quotes
And his listeners understand exactly what he said there, because they said, only God can forgive sins. Jesus says, yes. You're right about that. It's an easy thing for me to say. But I can also say, rise and walk. And the man will rise up and walk. And so Jesus provides this miracle as verification, as proof that he is who he says he is, and that he can do all of the things that he says he can do. And so if he says, rise and walk, the man rises and walks. [00:23:54] (36 seconds)
Now, these sorts of miracles are important. They're important in part, and I think in large part, because they validated that Jesus was who he said he was. Because who else can do these things? Who else can give life to the dead but God? Who else can forgive sins, can cause the crippled man to walk again? And these are the things that Jesus pointed to. [00:26:02] (31 seconds)
And Peter said to him, Anais, Jesus Christ heals you, rise and make your bed. And immediately he rose. And all the residents of Lydda and Sharon saw him, and they turned to the Lord. So do you see the parallel with what Jesus did? A man who was crippled for years is healed. And not gradually, right? Not after an extensive course of physical therapy, right? But in a word, in an instant, the man's function is restored. [00:29:04] (37 seconds)
But Peter put them all outside and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body, he said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes. And when she saw Peter, she sat up. And he gave her his hand and raised her up. Then calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive. And it became known throughout all Joppa. And many believed in the Lord. [00:31:00] (22 seconds)
Just as those miracles told the world that Jesus was who he said he was, what is happening here is it is also being demonstrated that Peter now speaks with the authority and with the power that Jesus spoke with. Peter did Jesus' miracles. He speaks with the authority and the power of Jesus, which is incredibly important for what comes next, for what we're going to look at next week. [00:32:59] (30 seconds)
And so these signs and these wonders were given to people who would believe through them. Through those signs. But there are some for whom signs would be meaningless. Right? So these people, these signs were the catalyst, were the trigger for them coming to believe that Jesus was the Messiah. But that's not true for all people. [00:34:09] (26 seconds)
These miracles were not about fixing the problems in these people's lives, but these miracles were about calling people to repent of their sin and to believe in Jesus. And they were signs that were given to call people to do that, to place their faith in Jesus. So this morning, as we're looking at this, we need to remember that Jesus' people have his power. [00:35:44] (31 seconds)
The purpose behind the power of God at work within us is to call people to repent of their sins and place their faith in Jesus. And Luke is very careful to point out that that is the result of both of these miracles. Not that Peter solved all of the world's problems, but that many people came to believe. [00:39:27] (23 seconds)
He is at work in this world still in a thousand million ways that we cannot understand and that we cannot see. But he is at work in this world to call people to repent of their sin, to repent of their idolatry, and to trust in him. But not everyone in him in is convinced. Not everyone will see these miracles. Not everyone will see this faith and believe. [00:43:23] (33 seconds)
Jesus' power is on his people. It rests on and in and with his people, but for a purpose, that is to call people to repentance and faith. We have power from Jesus to proclaim his salvation and to call the world to repent of their sins and place their faith in him. But Jesus' power is, in fact, our healing. [00:44:44] (31 seconds)
We have been crippled by life in this broken and fallen world. We have been crippled by other people's sin. We have been crippled by our own sin. We have been crippled by just life. And we need the power of God to heal what it is that this world has broken. We are all like Tabitha. We were dead in the trespasses and sins in which we once walked. [00:45:25] (33 seconds)
And the proof that he can and that he will do that is seen in the life of Aeneas. In the life of Tabitha. It's seen in the lives of our brothers and sisters in the way that they have shared today that God is at work in their lives. Do you believe this? Do you believe this? Or is there some other hope that you have? [00:50:56] (34 seconds)
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