Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Significance In the biblical context, "marvels" refer to extraordinary events or acts that inspire awe and wonder, often attributed to the divine intervention of God. These events serve as signs of God's power, presence, and purpose, demonstrating His sovereignty over creation and His ability to intervene in human history. Marvels are often synonymous with miracles and wonders, and they play a crucial role in the narrative of Scripture, affirming the faith of believers and challenging the unbelief of skeptics. Old Testament References The Old Testament is replete with accounts of marvels performed by God, particularly in the context of His covenant relationship with Israel. One of the most significant examples is the series of plagues in Egypt, culminating in the parting of the Red Sea, which allowed the Israelites to escape from Pharaoh's army. In Exodus 15:11, Moses and the Israelites sing, "Who among the gods is like You, O LORD? Who is like You—majestic in holiness, revered with praises, performing wonders?" The Psalms frequently recount God's marvelous deeds as a source of encouragement and worship. Psalm 77:14 declares, "You are the God who works wonders; You display Your strength among the peoples." These marvels serve as reminders of God's faithfulness and His ability to deliver His people from adversity. New Testament References In the New Testament, marvels are prominently associated with the ministry of Jesus Christ. His miracles, such as healing the sick, raising the dead, and calming storms, are described as signs that reveal His divine authority and identity as the Son of God. In John 2:11, after Jesus turns water into wine at the wedding in Cana, it is noted, "This, the first of His signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee, and He manifested His glory, and His disciples believed in Him." The apostles also performed marvels through the power of the Holy Spirit, as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles. These acts served to authenticate their message and demonstrate the continued presence of God's power in the early Church. Acts 2:43 states, "A sense of awe came over everyone, and the apostles performed many wonders and signs." Purpose and Function Marvels in the Bible serve multiple purposes. They are a testament to God's power and a means of revelation, providing insight into His character and will. They also function as a catalyst for faith, encouraging belief and trust in God. In some instances, marvels serve as a form of judgment, as seen in the plagues of Egypt, while in others, they are acts of compassion and mercy, such as Jesus' healings. Furthermore, marvels often serve as a call to repentance and a reminder of God's ultimate authority over creation. They challenge human understanding and invite individuals to recognize the limitations of human power in contrast to the omnipotence of God. Theological Implications The occurrence of marvels in the biblical narrative underscores the belief in a God who is actively involved in the world. They affirm the doctrine of divine providence, suggesting that God not only created the universe but continues to sustain and govern it. Marvels also highlight the eschatological hope of believers, pointing to the ultimate restoration and renewal of creation when God's kingdom is fully realized. In summary, marvels in the Bible are profound expressions of God's power and presence, serving as signs that reveal His glory and purpose throughout history. They invite believers to respond in faith, worship, and obedience, acknowledging the wondrous works of the Lord. Strong's Hebrew 4159. mopheth -- a wonder, sign, portent... Word Origin from an unused word Definition a wonder, sign, portent NASB Word Usage marvel (1), marvels (3), miracle (1), miracles (1), sign (8), symbol (1 ... /hebrew/4159.htm - 6k Library That all Marvels are not of Nature's Production, but that Some are ... The Marvels of Holy Scripture, --Moral and Physical. --Jael's Deed ... "I Will, However, Still Further Give You an Account of Two ... For with what Purpose in view did Providence Accomplish the ... For the Law and the Prophets are Full of Marvels Similar to those ... That There are Many Things which Reason Cannot Account For, and ... That the Ultimate Reason for Believing Miracles is the Omnipotence ... Psalm IX. Synopsis. --A Clearer Conception of Miracle Approached. --Works of ... The Kingdom Undivided Thesaurus Marvels (21 Occurrences)...Marvels (21 Occurrences). John 4:48 "Unless you and others see miracles and marvels," said Jesus, "nothing will induce you to believe." (WEY). ... /m/marvels.htm - 12k Miracles (65 Occurrences) Tokens (11 Occurrences) Bore (221 Occurrences) Perform (155 Occurrences) Semites Semitic Unwearied (5 Occurrences) Outlying (4 Occurrences) Lawless (16 Occurrences) Resources Is Marxism compatible with the Christian faith? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Joel's Army? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Marvels (21 Occurrences)John 4:48 Acts 2:19 Acts 2:22 Acts 2:43 Acts 4:30 Acts 5:12 Acts 6:8 Acts 7:36 Acts 14:3 Acts 15:12 Romans 15:19 2 Corinthians 12:12 2 Thessalonians 2:9 Hebrews 2:4 Revelation 13:14 Revelation 16:14 Exodus 34:10 1 Chronicles 16:12 Psalms 78:12 Psalms 78:43 Psalms 105:5 Subtopics Related Terms Over-against (156 Occurrences) |