In Numbers 16, we see God judging Korah and his followers for their rebellion by causing the earth to swallow them-a miraculous sign. He also caused Aaron’s staff to bud and blossom as a sign of His chosen leadership in Numbers 17.
In our New Testament reading, God performed signs through Paul and Peter. Paul, who had previously persecuted God’s people, began preaching the Gospel with power and authority. Peter healed Aeneas, who had been paralyzed and bedridden for years, and also raised Tabitha from the dead.
God goes to great lengths to demonstrate His presence among His people. This is not done for dramatic effect; rather, it is to encourage people to believe the Gospel leading to salvation. As you partner with God in reconciling people to Him, you will effortlessly witness signs and wonders.
Reflection: Signs follow as we follow God.
Today’s reading
Numbers 16-17
Korah son of Izhar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, and certain Reubenites—Dathan and Abiram, sons of Eliab, and On son of Peleth—became insolent[a] 2 and rose up against Moses. With them were 250 Israelite men, well-known community leaders who had been appointed members of the council. 3 They came as a group to oppose Moses and Aaron and said to them, “You have gone too far! The whole community is holy, every one of them, and the Lord is with them. Why then do you set yourselves above the Lord’s assembly?”…
Acts 9:26-43
When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus. 28 So Saul stayed with them and moved about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord.