Miracles and Providence Psalm 9:1-10
I Believe In Miracles I am sure you do too. Miracles such as: Jesus turning water into wine (Jn. 2:1-11) Jesus walking on the water (Matt. 14:22-33) Jesus raising Lazarus from the grave (Jn. 11:14-15, 38-44)
Discussion Of Terms Natural means—comes from God’s laws regarding nature (bread or birth) Supernatural—involves divine action with natural Bread (manna) delivered-Divine; eaten-natural Birth (Jesus) conception-Divine; birth-normal
Discussion Of Terms Miraculous—refers to works of a supernatural character which are contrary to the laws of nature. Nothing normal here Providence—refers to Divine will through natural means
The Difference Miracles transcend nature, but providence uses natural means and natural laws For example, prayer for the sick (Matt. 21:22; James 5:14-15) Not miraculous, but God uses the body’s natural healing ability to restore health
Not Exclusive Means God has never relied exclusively on miraculous action in answering prayer (2 Sam. 15:31-34; 16:23-17:14) This prayer of David’s was answered by natural means
Example God God provided a ram for Abraham to use (Gen. 22:13-14) Was it natural for a ram to be there? Yes Was it a natural thing for it to be caught in a thicket? Yes Was it God’s providence? Yes. Was it a miracle? No
Remember We must keep in mind that all of this is to be done in accordance with the will of God (1 Jn. 5:14) Those who say there are miracles today are denying what the word of God says (1 Cor. 13:8-10; Mk. 16:20; Heb. 2:3-4)