Traditionally understood, a miracle is a supernatural sign or wonder, brought about by God, signifying His glory and the salvation of mankind. As a sign, a miracle is perceived by the senses and makes present the supernatural order, God’s governance of nature, and His loving plan of salvation. Miracles are a call to faith.
The word “miracle” is used broadly in common speech to signify the wondrous, the improbable, or the newly discovered. When speaking of miracles, people often refer to natural events such as the sunrise, seasons, birth, and coincidence. People perform “miracles” in circus acts and magic shows. People refer to the miracle of modern medicine, science, or technology. People sell miracles: nutritional supplements, fitness machines, hearing aids, and sundry “miracle drugs.” Many of these items are in some way wondrous. Some even point to God and His plan of salvation. To apply the term “miracle” to any of these, however, is to omit the most distinctive feature of a miracle: God’s direct intervention in the world.
© Evangelization Station, 2025