Spiritual gifts
The Spiritual Gift of Miracles
Trusting God's power without chasing spectacle
The gift of miracles, which Paul calls "the working of miracles" (1 Corinthians 12:10), describes extraordinary works of God done through believers, often confirming the message of the gospel. Christians hold different convictions about whether this gift continues today.
“So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord, who affirmed the message of His grace by enabling them to perform signs and wonders.”
What it is
Miracles in the New Testament are acts of God's power beyond the ordinary course of nature, like making the lame walk or raising the dead. Paul says God appointed "workers of miracles" in the church (1 Corinthians 12:28).
In Scripture, miracles point to something. John says Jesus' signs were written down "so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God" (John 20:31). Hebrews says God "affirmed" the gospel "through signs, wonders, various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit" (Hebrews 2:4).
Where Scripture shows it
Stephen, "full of grace and power," was "performing great wonders and signs among the people" (Acts 6:8). "God did extraordinary miracles through the hands of Paul" (Acts 19:11), and when Peter knelt and prayed beside Tabitha's body, she opened her eyes (Acts 9:40).
Jesus warned that some will claim to have performed "many miracles" in His name and will hear, "I never knew you" (Matthew 7:22-23). When the seventy-two came back rejoicing that demons submitted to them, He told them to rejoice that their names are written in heaven (Luke 10:17-20).
What it can look like
- Where churches believe this gift continues, believers pray boldly for God to act where only He can, and they give Him the credit.
- Reports of miracles are checked honestly and never exaggerated.
- Across traditions, Christians pray knowing God can do what they can't.
- The focus stays on Jesus and the gospel, and nobody is put on display.
What to watch for
- Chasing signs. Jesus sighed at a generation that demanded them (Mark 8:11-12).
- Doubting God's love when the miracle you prayed for doesn't come.
- Seeking status or money. Peter rebuked Simon for thinking he "could buy the gift of God with money" (Acts 8:20).
Ways to serve with it
- Learn what your church teaches about miracles and spiritual gifts.
- Pray boldly about situations that look impossible, and let God answer as He chooses.
- When you tell others how God answered prayer, tell it straight, without embellishing.
- Keep serving people in need with practical help while you pray for God to act.
Related gifts
Holy habits that fit this gift
These practices can help you steward this gift over time.
Frequently asked questions
Does God still do miracles today?
Christians across traditions believe God can act in extraordinary ways in answer to prayer. They differ on whether some believers today have a gift of working miracles like the one described in 1 Corinthians 12.
What's the difference between the gift of miracles and the gift of healing?
Paul lists them separately (1 Corinthians 12:9-10). Healing restores someone who is sick or injured. Miracles cover a wider range of God's mighty works, like raising the dead or striking a sorcerer blind (Acts 13:11).
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