Miracles have played an important part in the history and development of Christianity. Believing in specific ones has been required as part of the Faith. A person was not considered to be a Christian unless he professed to believe in such miracles as the Virgin Birth, the translation of Mary bodily into heaven, the resurrection and ascension of Jesus, and others.
There have been many miracles reported by individuals over the years: miracles of healing, levitation, the miraculous multiplication of food, and the appearances of prominent figures in the Church. There are many miracle stories told in the Scriptures such as the parting of the Red Sea and the Jordan River, the restoration of life, the standing still of the sun and moon, the multiplying of the widow’s oil, the ability to walk on water, the changing of water into wine, and even the instantaneous occurrence of death.
A natural explanation has been given for some of these; however, the so-called “natural” explanation often seems more miraculous than the miracle itself.
Before we can discuss miracles and say whether we believe or disbelieve in them, we must first define them. This is a major problem and has been the subject of much discussion among religious leaders, scientists and philosophers down through the ages. I believe that even before we can define a miracle we must review our concept of the universe and the nature of God. Many traditional Christians have a misconception of both; they see God as a Being Who created the universe and man. We are supposed to have free will, but still He intervenes in our lives and affairs and bestows blessings or punishment according to His whims.
Many unpleasant things are attributed to this God. He is responsible for storms, tornadoes, earthquakes, floods and other tragedies. Of course He is also the Author of good weather, sunshine, refreshing rain, and other good things that happen. This is an immature view of God and it is based on a human interpretation of Scripture. We are told that we are created in God’s image and we assume that God must therefore look like us and have similar attitudes and feelings. So, we have thought of God as getting angry and vindictive over the bad deeds of man.
This is a false concept of God. I could never believe in such a god, for I would have to question his wisdom, intelligence, and integrity, and I would certainly doubt his love for me. Yet this is the god that many people are supposed to believe in, have faith in, and trust with their lives.
Many sincere Christians pray to God hoping that He will change His mind and bless them with some good... It isn’t God that must change, it is we who must change so that His good can manifest in and through us.