Signs Will Follow the Believer

Mark 16:17-18 NLT
“These miraculous signs will accompany those who believe: They will cast out demons in my name, and they will speak in new languages. They will be able to handle snakes with safety, and if they drink anything poisonous, it won’t hurt them. They will be able to place their hands on the sick, and they will be healed.”

Explaination;
I get asked about signs a lot. Understand the context of this verse, these 11 men were going to take the message of the Gospel to a world. Their world was dark with demon activity, false religions and just bad people, doing unspeakable things. I know what you’re thinking, “So is our world!” But not the magnitude of their time. In America, the Christian influence is not the majority but it is still strong with those who are faithful.

Back in the first century, the Message of the Gospel was like a title wave coming through a dry river bed The Gospel stirred up a lot of hate and animosity even though it was bringing good news. Signs are experiences that are perceived to be miraculous. In their time period it was like taking good news to a world with no hope. Yes, we are quickly getting back to that world.

If you ask many missionaries around the world especially those who minister in hard to reach areas, they will tell you signs and wonders happen all the time. My best encouragement for the power that Jesus imparted to His disciples and us as well.

Don’t seek signs and strange occurances. In the words of this passage, “signs will accompany those who believe:” (or following those who are spreading the Gospel) Signs and wonders will happen to show the power of God, NOT so we can marvel.

Prayer:
Lord, help us to stay focused on spreading the Gospel, not on manifestations. In Your name Lord, Amen!