⁵Philip went down to the city of Samaria and began proclaiming Christ to them. ⁶The crowds with one accord were giving attention to what was said by Philip, as they heard and saw the signs which he was performing. ⁷For in the case of many who had unclean spirits, they were coming out of them shouting with a loud voice; and many who had been paralyzed and lame were healed. ⁸So there was much rejoicing in that city.

The working of supernatural events to gain attention for the gospel, and the record of what seemed to be common occurrences in the early chapters of Acts, would seem to suggest that miracles should be common today. In fact, many Christians rely heavily on the record in Acts. Such an emphasis, though, is misplaced and can lead to spiritual shipwreck. How so?

First, the miracles of the early church, while wonderful, were not given as a permanent experience, but to validate the apostolic message. In addition to Heb. 2:3b–4, the apostle Paul later wrote concerning his own apostolic credentials, “The signs of a true apostle were performed among you with all perseverance, by signs and wonders and miracles” (2 Cor. 12:12 also Romans 15:19). Do we still need the validation of miracles to entice unbelievers concerning the validity of the apostolic message? Jesus spoke disparagingly about those who require signs and wonders in order to believe (John 4:48, Matt. 16:4).

Further, we see a decline in the occurrence of miracles as the validity and authenticity of the gospel message became more established. Even the apostle Paul, who was no stranger to miracle working, wrote to Timothy, “[U]se a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments” (1 Tim 5:23, also 2 Tim. 4:20). An odd thing to say if he could simply claim a miracle of healing for Timothy. Certainly, we cannot blame Timothy’s lack of faith either.

Does this mean God ceased doing all miracles after the early part of Acts? Of course not. God is not limited by any theological construct we may try to impose on Him. Paul included “miracles” in his list of spiritual gifts, when he wrote to the Corinthians (1 Cor. 12:10, 28). What Christian does not pray for God’s healing of loved ones?

So why not seek after miraculous signs today? I wish I had the gift of healing. I would spend my days clearing out the hospitals. I would throw away my prescription eyeglasses, never spend another dime on cough drops. But in the end, we all die of something. Even Stephen, the first martyr, was not raised from the dead! Many today, rather than looking for God’s help to endure in the midst of suffering, begin to give up because of lack of faith, and eventually begin to give up on God altogether. That’s shipwreck either way.

Lord, remind me to look to You in faith, even when You do not work miracles.