The concept of God's glory is a central theme throughout the Bible, often revealed through miraculous events that demonstrate His power, authority, and divine nature. Miracles serve as a testament to God's sovereignty and His active presence in the world, affirming His covenant with His people and His ultimate plan for creation.

Old Testament Miracles

In the Old Testament, miracles are frequently depicted as acts of divine intervention that reveal God's glory and His relationship with Israel. One of the most significant examples is the parting of the Red Sea, where God delivers the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. In Exodus 14:21-22 , it is written, "Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the LORD drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. So the waters were divided, and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with walls of water on their right and on their left." This miraculous event not only demonstrated God's power but also His faithfulness to His promises.

Another notable miracle is the provision of manna in the wilderness, as described in Exodus 16. This daily sustenance for the Israelites highlighted God's care and provision, reinforcing His glory as the provider and sustainer of life. In Exodus 16:12 , God declares, "I have heard the grumbling of the Israelites. Tell them, 'At twilight you will eat meat, and in the morning you will be filled with bread. Then you will know that I am the LORD your God.'"

Miracles in the Life of Elijah and Elisha

The ministries of the prophets Elijah and Elisha are marked by numerous miracles that reveal God's glory and authority. Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel is a powerful demonstration of God's supremacy. In 1 Kings 18:38-39 , it is recorded, "Then the fire of the LORD fell and consumed the burnt offering, the wood, the stones, and the dust, and it licked up the water that was in the trench. When all the people saw this, they fell facedown and said, 'The LORD, He is God! The LORD, He is God!'"

Elisha, Elijah's successor, also performed miracles that revealed God's power. One such miracle is the multiplication of the widow's oil in 2 Kings 4:1-7, which not only provided for the widow's needs but also demonstrated God's compassion and provision.

New Testament Miracles

In the New Testament, the miracles of Jesus Christ are central to the revelation of God's glory. Jesus' miracles serve as signs of His divine authority and His identity as the Son of God. The Gospel of John particularly emphasizes this aspect, referring to Jesus' miracles as "signs" that reveal His glory.

The first of these signs is the turning of water into wine at the wedding in Cana. In John 2:11 , it is stated, "Jesus performed this first sign at Cana in Galilee. He thus revealed His glory, and His disciples believed in Him." This miracle not only demonstrated Jesus' power over creation but also symbolized the new covenant and the abundance of God's grace.

The resurrection of Lazarus is another profound miracle that reveals God's glory. In John 11:4 , Jesus says, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it." The raising of Lazarus from the dead is a powerful testament to Jesus' authority over life and death, foreshadowing His own resurrection.

The Apostolic Age

Following Jesus' ascension, the apostles continued to perform miracles through the power of the Holy Spirit, further revealing God's glory and affirming the truth of the Gospel. In Acts 3:6-8 , Peter heals a lame man, saying, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!" This miracle, among others, served to authenticate the apostles' message and demonstrate the continued presence of God's power in the early Church.

Purpose and Significance

Throughout Scripture, miracles are not merely displays of power but are deeply connected to God's redemptive purposes. They serve to confirm the message of the prophets, the divinity of Christ, and the truth of the Gospel. Miracles reveal God's character—His holiness, compassion, and justice—and invite humanity to respond in faith and worship. As such, they are a profound manifestation of the glory of God, drawing believers into a deeper understanding of His nature and His kingdom.