And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people. (Acts 6:8)
The early church was characterized by supernatural power. Stephen, a man full of faith and power, demonstrated the reality of God’s kingdom through great wonders and miracles. His life served as a testimony that the Spirit of God was not confined to the apostles but worked through all who were filled with faith. The Greek word for wonders in this passage is teras, which means an omen, a sign that inspires awe and amazement. Wonders are supernatural events that prompt people to stop, reflect, and recognize the presence of God. Throughout history, the Lord has employed signs and wonders to direct people to Himself.
But what is a sign? The word sign is translated from the Greek word semeion, meaning an indication, particularly of something supernatural. In Mark 16:15-18, Jesus gave His disciples the Great Commission and declared that signs will follow those who believe:
They will cast out devils (Ekballo) – meaning to expel, eject, drive out, or forcibly remove demonic forces.
They will speak with new tongues (Glossa) – a language not naturally acquired but given supernaturally by the Holy Spirit.
They will take up serpents – representing divine protection from harm.
They will drink deadly things and not be harmed – a sign of God’s supernatural preservation.
They will lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover – the flow of healing anointing.
Practical Application
These signs are not for a select few but for all who believe in Jesus and walk in His name. The Greek word for name is onoma, which means character and authority.