In the Bible we find references to the signs and wonders wrought by men through the power of God. Moses was able to demonstrate protection for the children of Israel during their flight from Egypt and to provide food and water for them in the wilderness and in Horeb. Elijah restored life to a child, and by this sign of God's power the boy's mother acknowledged the teaching of Elijah when she said (I Kings 17:24), "Now by this I know that thou art a man of God, and that the word of the Lord in thy mouth is truth." These demonstrations or signs of God's power were twofold in accomplishment: the human need was met through the loving and understanding prayers of the prophets, and this evidence of the power of Truth caused the thoughts of those benefited to rise somewhat above their mortal, limited sense of existence.
The Old Testament records other signs of the power of God to protect: the three young Hebrews were protected in the fiery furnace and Daniel was delivered from the lions. As a result of these demonstrations both King Nebuchadnezzar and King Darius acknowledged the true God, and all the people of their kingdoms were benefited.
The New Testament also includes innumerable instances of God's power to bless and heal. Just prior to Jesus' ascension above all mortality, he said to the disciples (Mark 16:17, 18), "These signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover." Following Jesus' resurrection and ascension the disciples had a more complete understanding of his teachings, for we read in the same chapter (verse 20), "They went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following."
