Signs and Wonders

Signs and Wonders 
Expect Miracles
Terry R. Baughman
“And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common” (Acts 2:42-44 NKJV). 
Miracles were as common as fellowship over dinner in the early church. “Many wonders and signs” were seen at the hands of the apostles. As we return to the pattern of the early church of the Book of Acts we will begin to see more of the miraculous in the church.
In these few verses following Peter’s message on the Day of Pentecost there are several keys to the success of the early assembly and good instruction for the church of the latter days: 

1. They remained faithful to the teaching they received from the apostles, who were eyewitnesses (and ear-witnesses) of the teaching of Jesus. 
2. They stayed connected through times of fellowship and shared meals. 
3. They continued to pray, even after the week they spent together in the upper room prayer meeting. 
4. The miraculous signs and wonders resulted in fear among those who were on the outside. 
5. The believers experienced great unity of purpose and they willingly shared their possessions with others. 

One of the most viable evidences of God-given authority was the working of miracles. That was a convincing proof to many that Jesus was the Messiah. However, the apostles continued the practice of praying, believing, and as a result, seeing wonderful signs and wonders that were a testament of God’s power working through them. They taught the doctrine they had received and remained faithful to the word of Jesus. 
The power of miracles is not an indication that we should discontinue our teaching of salvation, rather all the more, we must be engaged in countering the culture and preaching the steadfast truth of God’s Word. The unexplained miracle, the sensational sign, or the unexpected outcome all produce the awe of respect and perhaps, the intimation of our own lack of power compared to the limitless glory of God that can work in us continually. 
Early followers prayed for boldness to proclaim the truth of God’s word. When they prayed, the effect could be felt by all and immediately those who had not received the Holy Spirit were filled. (See Acts 4:29-31.) Their prayers for boldness were also granted and they eagerly proclaimed the word of God.
When they prayed, “the place was shaken!” There was obviously a visible, physical response to prayer and the demonstration of the miraculous presence and power of God. May the church today come together in unity to follow the example of the early believers in teaching, prayer, fellowship, and the signs and wonders that God will freely provide. Let’s get ready and expect miracles!
Theme passage:
“They stayed there a long time, speaking boldly in the Lord, who was bearing witness to the word of His grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands” (Acts 14:3 NKJV).

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