Signs, Wonders, and the Simple Word of God

Scripture

Our verse for today comes from Acts 8:6, “And the crowds with one accord paid attention to what was being said by Philip, when they heard him and saw the signs that he did.”

Background

I don’t think the people of Samaria were very different from people today. They loved a good show. And by all accounts, they were used to getting one. One called Simon the magician lived among them and, according to Luke, he amazed the people and claimed that he was somebody great. Doesn’t the image of one of those traveling carnivals come to mind, which would include some sort of marquee with stars and a top hat and “Simon the Great” coming out from behind a curtain wearing a cape? As sketchy as that seems, evidently Simon was most impressive, enthralling everyone from the least to the greatest for quite some time, even to the point that they said he was the power of God. So when Philip came on the scene, he no doubt surmised right away that these people were going to want to see something to back up whatever message he was bringing. And so, Philip did not disappoint. To be sure, crowds gathered. I imagine they were used to rounding each other up to take in the latest theatrics and had regular spots in town where the shows took place. Surely Philip worked his way to get in front of them, and then he let it fly. But out of his mouth came a message of good news about the kingdom of God and His Son Jesus. And he didn’t guess which card was drawn or make anyone disappear or pull a rabbit out of a hat. Instead, he went and found the people who probably never made it to Simon’s shows, the ones who screamed uncontrollably and those who were crippled. And then Philip made them whole. And when the Samaritans heard about a risen Savior and saw a lame man get up and walk, they most definitely paid attention. And for good reason.

Application

But today, we’re not seeing paraplegics hop out of wheelchairs. And if we did, we’d be extremely skeptical. In fact, so much healing that we pray for never comes. And does that make it difficult for you to pay attention to what God is saying? Do all those verses about never this and always that sort of trip you up in times of crisis? If so, you’re not alone. But perhaps you’re also not looking in the right places. God is faithful, so maybe something else is going on in your heart, and perhaps it requires some attention.

Charge

As we seek Him today, go back to a simple word from God and let it have its way with you. See what kind of difference that makes.

Editor Comment: This devotional gently confronts the crisis of faith we feel when the healing we pray for never arrives, pointing us back to God's simple and faithful word.