Read Jn 4.46-54
When he heard that Jesus had come out of Judea into Galilee, he went to Him and was imploring Him to come down and heal his son; for he was at the point of death. So Jesus said to him, "Unless you people see signs and wonders, you simply will not believe."
(John 4:47-48)
It seems like a pretty harsh response to a panicked request. The official was begging Jesus to keep his son alive and at first glance, Jesus appears to turn the plea into a theology class. “People do not believe without signs and wonders.” I don’t think Jesus was trying to be smug or condescending. I think He was simply stating this as a matter of fact. Because He does heal the man’s son and the man does believe and the scriptures do record this as Jesus’ second sign (vs 54).
It’s not necessarily bad for people to look for clues, evidence, data, or authentication. I think it’s wrong when we ignore the signs and wonders that have already been given. Case in point. I watched a fascinating documentary where Rick Larson uses the scriptures and an astronomy computer program to reveal evidence that the stars did point to the birth of Christ. It was convincing, compelling, and pegged out my faith meter. He basically authenticates the whole of scripture, the life of Christ, the creation of the universe, and the sovereignty of God by looking at astronomy (not astrology). Pretty powerful stuff.
The next morning I was up before the sun so I went out to look at the stars. Full of renewed faith and thankfulness, I marveled at the signs and wonders that have been churning in the sky since the beginning of time. The skies have been pointing to God and the Word of God predicted it. (Ps 97:6) It was right in front of my eyes and I missed it until Rick explained it to me. There is evidence of God all around us. Are we astute enough to point it out to young disciples? Do we know the scriptures well enough to recognize the signs? Are we helping those around us to see the majesty of God in His Word, creation, life, and circumstances? The signs and wonders are all around us we just need to open our eyes.
For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. (Rom 1:20)
FJ41
Rick Larson – www.bethlehemstar.net
Documentary DVD – The Star of Bethlehem
For questions or comments drop me a line at charleswood1@gmail.com
