And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. (Mark 16:17-18)
Miracles aren’t supposed to be random occurrences. Miracles should be a part of the regular Christian life. Jesus didn’t say, “These signs might follow.” He said, “These signs shall follow.” That means it’s going to happen, and we should expect it. God wants believers to live a life of supernatural adventures in faith.
The first thing Jesus said we should expect was that we would cast out devils. How? Jesus said we do it in His name. The word name in the Greek is onoma. It means the authority and character of Jesus. When faced with any form of spiritual attack, remember the authority you carry in the name of Jesus. It’s not just a word; it’s the very authority and character of Christ Himself flowing through you.
Jesus also promised that believers would speak with new tongues. Embrace the gift of tongues, allowing the Holy Spirit to pray through you in a language beyond your understanding. When you pray in tongues, you strengthen and edify your spirit.
The next thing that Jesus listed was that believers would take up serpents and if they drank any deadly thing, it would not harm them. Now, this isn’t meant as an excuse to test God by putting yourself purposely in dangerous situations. We don’t drink poison or handle snakes to prove anything. However, if we encounter a venomous snake or poison in our food, God will protect us. We can trust in God’s promises of safety and boldly face danger without fear.
The last thing Jesus told us was that believers would lay hands on the sick, and they would recover. So, step out in faith, lay hands on the sick, and trust in the authority and character of Jesus to heal.
Practical Application
Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal opportunities for you to step out in boldness and allow the power of the Holy Spirit to flow through you in miracles, signs, and wonders. This isn’t just for Christians with titles; it’s for them that believe.