Definition and Purpose
In the biblical context, "signs and wonders" refer to miraculous events that serve as divine acts of God, intended to demonstrate His power, authenticate His messengers, and convey His will to humanity. These phenomena are often seen as evidence of God's intervention in the world and are used to inspire faith and obedience among His people.

Old Testament Context
In the Old Testament, signs and wonders are frequently associated with the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt. The plagues that God inflicted upon Egypt are described as signs and wonders, designed to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites from bondage. Exodus 7:3 states, "But I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, and though I will multiply My signs and wonders in the land of Egypt." These acts demonstrated God's supremacy over the Egyptian gods and His commitment to His covenant people.

The wilderness journey of the Israelites also featured signs and wonders, such as the parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21-22), the provision of manna (Exodus 16:4-15), and water from the rock (Exodus 17:6). These miracles served to sustain the Israelites and reinforce their dependence on God.

Prophetic Signs
Prophets in the Old Testament were often accompanied by signs and wonders to validate their messages. For instance, Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel involved a miraculous demonstration of God's power through fire from heaven (1 Kings 18:38-39). Similarly, Isaiah was given a sign to assure King Hezekiah of God's promise to heal him and extend his life (2 Kings 20:8-11).

New Testament Context
In the New Testament, signs and wonders are prominently associated with the ministry of Jesus Christ and the early Church. Jesus performed numerous miracles, including healing the sick, raising the dead, and controlling nature, which served as signs of His divine authority and messianic identity. John 2:11 notes, "Jesus performed this first sign at Cana in Galilee. He thus revealed His glory, and His disciples believed in Him."

The apostles continued this pattern, performing signs and wonders to confirm the gospel message. Acts 2:43 records, "A sense of awe came over everyone, and the apostles performed many wonders and signs." These acts were instrumental in the rapid spread of Christianity and the establishment of the early Church.

Theological Significance
Signs and wonders in the Bible are not merely displays of power but are deeply theological, pointing to the reality of God's kingdom and His redemptive purposes. They serve as a foretaste of the ultimate restoration and renewal that God promises to bring about through Jesus Christ.

Warnings Against False Signs
The Bible also warns against false signs and wonders, which can be used to deceive. Jesus cautioned His followers about false prophets who would perform great signs and wonders to lead astray, if possible, even the elect (Matthew 24:24). The apostle Paul similarly warned of the "lawless one" whose coming would be marked by false signs and wonders (2 Thessalonians 2:9).

Conclusion
Signs and wonders are integral to the biblical narrative, serving as manifestations of God's power and presence. They authenticate His messengers, confirm His word, and call His people to faith and obedience. While they inspire awe and belief, the Bible also urges discernment to distinguish between true and false manifestations.