Definition and Usage in Scripture:
"Wonders and signs" are terms frequently used in the Bible to describe miraculous events that demonstrate the power and presence of God. These phenomena serve as divine attestations, often accompanying the ministry of prophets, apostles, and Jesus Christ Himself. The terms are often used together, though they can also appear separately. "Wonders" (Hebrew: מוֹפְתִים, mopheth; Greek: τέρατα, terata) typically refer to extraordinary events that inspire awe and amazement. "Signs" (Hebrew: אוֹתוֹת, othoth; Greek: σημεῖα, semeia) are miraculous occurrences that signify a deeper spiritual truth or divine message.

Old Testament Context:
In the Old Testament, wonders and signs are prominently featured in the narrative of the Exodus. God performed numerous wonders and signs through Moses to demonstrate His power and to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites from bondage. For example, 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 included the ten plagues, the parting of the Red Sea, and the provision of manna in the wilderness.

The prophets also performed signs and wonders to validate their messages. Elijah and Elisha, for instance, performed miracles that served as signs of God's authority and presence with them. In 1 Kings 18:38-39 , Elijah calls down fire from heaven as a sign to prove the Lord is the true God, leading the people to declare, "The LORD, He is God! The LORD, He is God!"

New Testament Context:
In the New Testament, signs and wonders are closely associated with the ministry of Jesus Christ and the early Church. Jesus performed numerous miracles, such as healing the sick, raising the dead, and feeding the multitudes, which served as signs of His divine authority and messianic identity. In John 2:11 , after Jesus turned water into wine, it is written, "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 authenticate their message and mission. Acts 2:43 notes, "A sense of awe came over everyone, and the apostles performed many wonders and signs." These acts were instrumental in the spread of the Gospel and the establishment of the early Church.

Theological Significance:
Wonders and signs serve several theological purposes. They confirm the truth of God's revelation and the authority of His messengers. They also demonstrate God's power over creation and His ability to intervene in human history. Furthermore, they are a foretaste of the coming Kingdom of God, where the natural order will be fully restored and God's reign will be fully realized.

Warnings Against False Signs:
Scripture also warns against false signs and wonders performed by deceivers. Jesus cautioned in Matthew 24:24 , "For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders that would deceive even the elect, if that were possible." The apostle Paul echoes this warning in 2 Thessalonians 2:9 , describing the coming of the lawless one "by the working of Satan, with every kind of power, sign, and false wonder."

Conclusion:
While wonders and signs are powerful demonstrations of God's presence and authority, believers are encouraged to discern their source and purpose, ensuring they align with the truth of Scripture and the character of God.