And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people. —Acts 5:12
When the disciples were put into prison and their lives threatened on account of God’s great power within them for healing and miracles, they were forbidden to preach in the name of Jesus.
Those early Christians knew it was the power of God that caused all their persecution. They knew if they had a form of religion, and denied the power, that they would have no more trouble. But, beloved, they said, “We will be true to God. We will preach the word if we die.” Then they prayed to the Lord, saying, “Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant to thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word, by stretching forth thine hand to heal: and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus” (Acts 4:29-30).
When they preached they knew they must see the signs in their meetings of the presence of the invisible Christ, who confirms His word through their message. Then, like Peter, they could say to those present, “This that you see and hear and feel, it is the promise of the Father, it is the Holy Ghost” (Acts 2:33, author’s paraphrase).
The Son was pleased with their prayer and with their faith and courage. The place was shaken and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and spake the word with boldness (Acts 4:31).
After this event they had greater success. God did mighty signs and wonders at the hands of the apostles. Great fear fell on all the church, and on all that heard and saw these things. Multitudes of men and women came flocking to Christ.
Mighty Lord Jesus, confirm Your Word today
with signs and wonders through the
miracle-working power of
Your Spirit. Amen.
