Many people may know some of the prominent stories in the Bible, but there are numerous miracles that often go unnoticed. These events showcase extraordinary acts that highlight the power and presence of the divine. Exploring these lesser-known miracles can inspire faith and encourage reflection on their significance in today’s world.
The Bible contains a rich tapestry of stories filled with miracles that demonstrate God’s intervention in human affairs. From healing the sick to transforming lives, these events reveal the profound nature of belief and the impact of faith. Delving into these incredible accounts can remind readers of the timeless lessons offered through these miraculous occurrences.
1) Water turned to wine
The first miracle of Jesus occurred at a wedding in Cana. This event is described in the Book of John. The hosts ran out of wine during the celebration.
Mary, Jesus’ mother, informed Him of the situation. She knew He could help, even if He had not yet performed any miracles.
Jesus instructed the servants to fill six large jars with water. They obeyed without hesitation. Once the jars were filled, He told them to draw some out and take it to the master of the feast.
When the master tasted the water that had been turned into wine, he was amazed. He commented on the quality of the wine, noting it was better than what was served first.
This miracle demonstrated Jesus’ power to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. It also highlighted the importance of faith and obedience to His command.
The miracle at Cana not only saved the celebration but revealed Jesus’ divine nature and mission. It marked the beginning of His public ministry and the signs that would follow.
2) Parting of the Red Sea
The Parting of the Red Sea is a key miracle in the Bible that showcases divine intervention. It occurred during the Israelites’ escape from Egypt. The Pharaoh’s army pursued them, pushing the Israelites to the edge of the sea.
Moses, the leader of the Israelites, prayed to God for help. In response, God instructed Moses to raise his staff. As he did, a strong east wind blew, and the waters parted.
This miraculous event allowed the Israelites to cross on dry ground. They moved quickly as the walls of water stood at their sides. Once they crossed safely, God commanded the waters to return.
The Egyptian army followed. However, God caused confusion among them. Their chariot wheels became stuck, and they could not keep up. The waters then returned, engulfing the army.
This miracle is remembered as a powerful act of faith and deliverance. It shows God’s protection and guidance in times of trouble. The story continues to inspire many, symbolizing hope and God’s ability to save.
3) Feeding of the 5,000
The Feeding of the 5,000 is a well-known miracle performed by Jesus Christ. This event is recorded in all four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
In this miracle, Jesus feeds a large crowd with just five loaves of bread and two fish. The story highlights both His compassion and ability to provide for people’s needs. The number of people is often cited as 5,000 men, not counting women and children.
Before the miracle, Jesus and His disciples sought a quiet place to rest. They were tired after their mission work. Instead, they found a large crowd waiting for Him.
Jesus took the limited food, blessed it, and broke it. He then distributed it to His disciples to give to the people. Everyone ate and was satisfied.
Afterward, the disciples collected twelve baskets of leftover food. This miracle not only shows Jesus’ power over nature but also symbolizes His role as the Bread of Life. Through this act, He teaches a lesson about faith and divine provision.
4) Walking on Water
The miracle of walking on water is a well-known event in the New Testament. It shows Jesus’ power over nature. This event is found in three Gospels: Matthew, Mark, and John.
In Matthew 14:22-33, Jesus walks on the Sea of Galilee. His disciples are in a boat, struggling against the wind. When they see Him walking on the water, they are frightened. Jesus tells them not to be afraid.
Peter, one of the disciples, asks to join Jesus on the water. He steps out of the boat and starts walking too. However, when he sees the strong wind, he becomes scared and begins to sink. Jesus reaches out and saves him, showing His control over the situation.
This miracle illustrates faith and the need to trust. It reminds believers that faith can transcend natural laws. The act of walking on water is more than just a display of power; it emphasizes faith amid fear. This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of staying focused on faith, even in difficult times.
5) Healing the Blind Man
In the New Testament, Jesus performed several miracles, one of which was healing a blind man in Bethsaida. This event is found in Mark 8:22-26.
The blind man was brought to Jesus by his friends. They asked Jesus to touch him. Jesus took the man outside the village before performing the healing.
First, Jesus spat on the man’s eyes and laid hands on him. After this, the man opened his eyes but could only see people like trees walking. This showed that he still needed further healing.
Jesus then placed his hands on the man’s eyes again. This second touch completely restored his sight. He could now see everything clearly.
This miracle highlights Jesus’ method of healing. He often took a personal approach to each person, showing care and attention. The two-step process reminds us that healing can sometimes take time.
6) Raising Lazarus from the dead
In the Gospel of John, chapter 11, Jesus performs the miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead. This event shows Jesus’ power over life and death.
Lazarus had been dead for four days when Jesus arrived in Bethany. His sisters, Mary and Martha, were mourning the loss of their brother. They believed that if Jesus had been there earlier, he could have saved him.
Jesus told Martha that Lazarus would rise again. He then went to the tomb and ordered the stone to be rolled away. Despite doubts from the crowd, Jesus called out, “Lazarus, come out!”
To everyone’s amazement, Lazarus emerged from the tomb, still wrapped in burial cloths. This miracle not only demonstrated Jesus’ authority but also deepened the faith of those who witnessed it.
It also sparked increased opposition from the religious leaders. They saw this miracle as a threat to their own power. The raising of Lazarus marks a crucial moment in Jesus’ ministry, leading toward his own death and resurrection.
7) Jesus Calming the Storm
In the Bible, one notable miracle occurs when Jesus calms a fierce storm. This story is found in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke.
While Jesus and his disciples were on a boat, a sudden, violent storm arose. The waves threatened to capsize the vessel, causing deep fear among the disciples.
In their panic, they woke Jesus, who had been sleeping peacefully. They cried out for help, expressing their fear of drowning.
Jesus responded with authority. He rebuked the wind and commanded the waves to be still. To everyone’s amazement, the storm immediately ceased.
This miracle showcased Jesus’ divine power over nature. The disciples were left in awe, realizing his ability to protect and calm them in their time of need.
This event taught them about trust and faith. It remains a powerful reminder of belief in moments of fear and uncertainty.
8) Daniel in the lion’s den
Daniel was a faithful servant of God. He continued to pray, even when King Darius made a law forbidding it. Because of his faith, he was thrown into a den of lions.
In the den, Daniel faced a dire situation. The lions were hungry. Most people would have felt fear in such a place. Yet, Daniel remained calm, trusting that God would protect him.
God sent an angel to help Daniel. The angel shut the mouths of the lions, keeping Daniel safe through the night. When King Darius came to check on Daniel, he was shocked to find him unharmed.
Daniel’s faith and bravery serve as an example for many. His story shows the power of belief and divine intervention. It reminds readers of the strength found in standing by one’s convictions, no matter the consequences.
9) Walls of Jericho Falling
The story of the walls of Jericho is one of the most famous miracles in the Bible. It is found in the book of Joshua. According to the Bible, God commanded Joshua and the Israelites to march around the city once a day for six days.
On the seventh day, they marched around Jericho seven times. After the last lap, the priests blew their trumpets, and the people shouted. At that moment, the walls of the city collapsed.
This event showcases the power of faith and obedience. The Israelites followed God’s instructions without knowing the outcome. Their faith was rewarded with a miraculous victory.
The walls did not fall inward but outward, which surprised many. Archaeological evidence suggests that an earthquake might have occurred at that time, possibly assisting in this miracle.
People view this event as a lesson in trust. The Israelites relied on God rather than their strength. The fall of Jericho’s walls remains a powerful story of faith in action.
10) Multiplying the Widow’s Oil
In the Old Testament, a widow approached the prophet Elisha for help. She was in deep debt and feared losing her sons to creditors. Elisha asked her what she had in her house.
She replied that she had nothing but a small jar of olive oil. Elisha instructed her to gather empty vessels from her neighbors. She did as he said and began pouring oil into the jars.
As she poured, the oil miraculously kept flowing. Each jar filled completely until there were no more empty vessels left. This miracle allowed the widow to sell the oil and pay off her debts.
With the remaining oil, she and her sons could also support themselves. This story illustrates God’s provision during difficult times. It shows that even a small amount can multiply with faith and action.
11) The Burning Bush
The story of the burning bush is found in Exodus 3. Moses, while tending sheep, sees a bush on fire. Surprisingly, the bush is not burned up.
Moses approaches the bush, intrigued by the strange sight. As he gets closer, God calls to him from the bush. God reveals His identity as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
This moment marks a key turning point for Moses. God chooses him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. The burning bush symbolizes God’s presence and power.
The miracle serves as a reminder that God can use everyday things to convey profound messages. It demonstrates that He is always watching over His people.
Moses learns that he must take off his sandals because he is standing on holy ground. This emphasizes the importance of respecting God’s presence.
The burning bush is not just an extraordinary event. It initiates a significant mission that shapes the course of history for the Israelites.
12) The sun standing still
The account of the sun standing still is found in the book of Joshua, specifically in Joshua 10:12-14. In this passage, Joshua asked God to make the sun stop in the sky during a battle against the Amorites.
The text states that the sun stood still over Gibeon and the moon stopped over the Valley of Aijalon. This event is considered one of the most extraordinary miracles in the Bible.
Scholars have debated its meaning for years. Some see it as a literal miracle, showing God’s power. Others believe it may have been a poetic way to describe a significant event in Israel’s history.
The phrase “standing still” can be tied to how the sun appears to move across the sky. In reality, this motion is due to Earth’s rotation. This miracle challenges our understanding of nature and divine intervention.
It remains a topic of interest, illustrating the impact of faith and the extraordinary events recorded in the Bible.
13) Elijah ascending to heaven
Elijah’s ascension to heaven is a remarkable event in the Bible. This story takes place in 2 Kings 2. It marks the end of Elijah’s earthly ministry and the beginning of Elisha’s.
As they traveled together, Elijah knew his time on Earth was ending. He tested Elisha’s loyalty by asking him to stay behind at several places. Each time, Elisha insisted on following him.
Suddenly, while they were walking, a chariot of fire appeared. It separated Elijah from Elisha. Then, Elijah was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind.
This event is significant because it shows God’s power. Elijah is one of only two people in the Bible said to have ascended to heaven without dying. The other is Enoch.
Elijah’s departure was not just an end but a transition. It set the stage for Elisha to take on the prophetic role. This moment continues to inspire many for its demonstration of faith and divine intervention.
14) Gideon’s fleece
Gideon’s fleece is a notable story from the Bible. It is found in the Book of Judges, chapters 6 and 7. At this time, the Israelites were under the control of the Midianites.
God chose Gideon to lead Israel against their enemies but Gideon felt unsure about his mission. To seek confirmation, he asked God for a sign.
He placed a wool fleece on the ground and requested that dew collect only on the fleece while the ground remained dry. God fulfilled this request.
Gideon then asked for a second sign, where the fleece would be dry and the ground wet. Again, God complied. These miracles gave Gideon the assurance he needed to take action.
This story highlights the theme of faith and reliance on God’s guidance. It shows that even strong leaders can seek confirmation of their path. Gideon’s fleece serves as a reminder of the importance of patience and trust in divine wisdom.
15) The Floating Axe Head
The story of the floating axe head is found in 2 Kings 6. It recounts a time when a young prophet lost a borrowed axe head while working near a river. This loss caused great concern since iron tools were valuable.
Elisha, a prophet of God, was called to help. He took a stick, threw it into the water, and miraculously made the iron axe head float to the surface. This event surprised everyone and displayed Elisha’s connection to God’s power.
The miracle highlights God’s care for even small problems in life. To many, losing an axe head may seem minor, but it was significant for the young prophet. This story serves as a reminder that God pays attention to every detail.
It also emphasizes the theme of divine provision. God intervenes in everyday issues and shows that He can handle our worries, no matter how small they may seem. Through this miracle, the people witnessed God’s authority and presence.
16) The Fiery Furnace
In the book of Daniel, three young men named Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego faced a dire challenge. They refused to bow down to a golden statue built by King Nebuchadnezzar. Their faith in God remained strong.
The king was furious and commanded that they be thrown into a fiery furnace. The furnace was heated seven times hotter than normal. Despite this danger, the three men did not waver in their belief.
When they were thrown in, something miraculous happened. Instead of burning, the men walked unharmed inside the flames. A fourth figure appeared with them, often thought to be an angel or a pre-incarnate Jesus.
When the king saw them, he was astonished. They emerged from the fire without a single burn. Their clothes were intact, and they didn’t even smell of smoke.
This event showed the power of faith and divine protection. The king praised God and recognized that no one could save like this God. The story of the fiery furnace reminds many of the importance of trusting in higher power, even in dangerous situations.
17) Naaman’s healing from leprosy
Naaman was a high-ranking Syrian general. He suffered from leprosy, a serious skin disease that caused pain and social isolation. Despite his military success, this condition made him ceremonially unclean.
A captured Israelite girl told Naaman’s wife about a prophet named Elisha. She believed Elisha could heal Naaman. This led Naaman to seek out the prophet in Israel.
Elisha did not meet Naaman personally. Instead, he sent a messenger with simple instructions. Naaman was told to wash in the Jordan River seven times. At first, he felt insulted and reluctant.
Eventually, Naaman obeyed. He immersed himself in the river as instructed. After seven washes, his skin was healed, and he was restored to health. Naaman’s flesh became young and fresh again.
Recognizing the power of the God of Israel, Naaman declared his faith. He returned to Elisha to express gratitude and offer gifts, but Elisha refused them. This miracle was not just about healing; it was also a lesson in humility and faith. Naaman learned that true healing comes from God, not human effort.
18) Samson’s Strength
Samson was a well-known figure in the Bible, famous for his extraordinary strength. His power came from a vow to God, which included not cutting his hair. This set him apart for a special purpose.
Throughout his life, Samson performed many incredible feats. He killed a lion with his bare hands and defeated a thousand men using a donkey’s jawbone. These acts showed the might of God working through him.
Samson’s strength was a gift, but it was also tied to his faith and obedience. When he broke his vow by revealing the secret of his strength, he lost his power. This event led to his capture by the Philistines.
As his hair began to grow back, it symbolized the possibility of restored strength. Samson’s story reminds readers of the connection between faith, strength, and divine purpose. His life serves as a lesson about the effects of choices and faithfulness.
19) Jonah and the Big Fish
Jonah was a prophet in the Old Testament. He received a command from God to go to the city of Nineveh and warn the people about their wrongdoings. Instead of obeying, Jonah tried to escape by boarding a ship to Tarshish.
A great storm arose while Jonah was at sea. The sailors were terrified and cried out to their gods. Jonah, realizing he was the cause, told them to throw him overboard. They did, and the sea calmed.
After Jonah was thrown into the water, he was swallowed by a giant fish. He spent three days and three nights in the fish’s belly. During this time, Jonah prayed to God and repented for his disobedience.
God heard Jonah’s prayer and commanded the fish to spit him out onto dry land. Jonah then obeyed God’s command and went to Nineveh, where he delivered God’s message. The people of Nineveh listened and changed their ways, showing great repentance.
This story highlights themes of obedience, repentance, and God’s mercy. Jonah’s experience inside the big fish was a turning point, showing that even when running away, one cannot escape God’s plan.
20) The Talking Donkey
The story of the talking donkey is found in the Book of Numbers, chapter 22. It features Balaam, a prophet who is summoned to curse the Israelites.
On his journey, Balaam rides his donkey. The donkey sees an angel blocking their path and stops. Balaam, not seeing the angel, grows angry. He strikes the donkey three times.
Then, something miraculous happens. God enables the donkey to speak. It asks Balaam why he has beaten it. This surprising event emphasizes the importance of listening and paying attention.
Balaam responds to the donkey, showing that he is bewildered but not afraid. The donkey’s speech illustrates that God can use anyone, even an animal, as a messenger.
This story highlights themes of obedience, insight, and communication. It reminds readers that wisdom can come from unexpected places. The talking donkey stands out as a unique miracle in the Bible, leaving a lasting impression on those who hear it.
The event showcases the wonder of God’s power and His ability to intervene in ordinary situations. It serves as a reminder to always be aware of the signs around us.
21) Elisha Raising the Shunammite’s Son
Elisha was a prophet known for his miracles. One of his remarkable acts involved a Shunammite woman who had shown him kindness. She provided food and shelter whenever he visited.
As a reward for her generosity, Elisha promised her a son. She later gave birth. Tragically, the boy fell ill and died. The woman sought out Elisha, displaying her deep faith despite her loss.
Upon finding her, Elisha went to her home. He entered the room where the boy lay. Elisha prayed and laid on the child. The boy’s body grew warm, and he eventually came back to life.
This miracle demonstrates the power of faith and divine intervention. The Shunammite woman’s trust in God led to the restoration of life. Elisha’s actions are remembered as a significant example of miracles in the Bible.
22) Angel freeing Peter from prison
In the story from Acts 12, Peter is imprisoned by King Herod. He was bound with chains and guarded by soldiers. The night before his trial, he slept soundly, unaware of his fate.
An angel of the Lord appears in the prison, bringing a bright light. The angel strikes Peter on the side, waking him up. The angel commands him to get up quickly.
As Peter rises, his chains fall off. The angel tells him to dress and follow. Peter thinks he is dreaming as they pass through the guards and gates.
They walk through the prison until they reach the outer gate. Miraculously, the gate swings open by itself. Once outside, the angel suddenly departs.
Realizing this was not a dream, Peter feels a rush of joy. He understands that God has sent his angel to rescue him. This moment shows the power of divine intervention in times of trouble.
23) Elijah and the Widow of Zarephath
During a severe drought, God instructed Elijah to go to Zarephath. There, he met a widow who was gathering sticks to prepare a final meal for herself and her son. She had very little food left, just a handful of flour and a bit of oil.
Elijah asked her for water and bread. The widow explained her desperate situation, but Elijah promised her that God would provide. He told her to make a small cake for him first, then use what was left for herself and her son.
Miraculously, the flour and oil never ran out during the drought. The widow, her son, and Elijah were sustained through God’s provision. This miracle demonstrated the power of faith and obedience.
Later, tragedy struck when the widow’s son became ill and died. Grief-stricken, she turned to Elijah for help. He prayed to God, and her son was brought back to life.
This story showcases the incredible miracles God performed through Elijah, highlighting themes of faith, hospitality, and divine provision in times of need.
24) Plagues of Egypt
The Plagues of Egypt are a series of ten disasters described in the Bible, specifically in the book of Exodus. These plagues were sent by God to convince Pharaoh to release the Israelites from slavery.
The first plague turned the Nile River into blood, which contaminated water sources. The second plague brought a swarm of frogs that invaded homes and fields.
Next came gnats, which emerged from the dust. The Egyptian magicians could not replicate this miracle, declaring, “This is the finger of God.”
The fourth plague introduced swarms of flies. This was followed by a disease that killed livestock. The sixth plague caused painful boils on the Egyptians.
Heavy hail fell in the seventh plague, damaging crops. The eighth plague involved swarms of locusts that devoured what remained.
The ninth plague brought darkness over Egypt. The final plague was the death of the firstborn, which finally led Pharaoh to free the Israelites.
These events highlight the struggle between God’s power and Pharaoh’s stubbornness. Each plague reinforced the need for liberation and showcased God’s ability to control nature.
25) Creation of Manna
Manna was a miraculous food provided to the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. After fleeing Egypt, they faced hunger in the desert. In response to their needs, God sent manna from heaven.
This bread-like substance appeared each morning, covering the ground. The Israelites collected it daily, taking only what they needed for that day. This taught them reliance on God for daily sustenance.
Manna was not just food; it held deeper significance. It symbolized God’s provision and care. The Israelites felt a sense of wonder and gratitude every time they gathered it.
The physical makeup of manna is still a mystery. Old texts describe it as resembling coriander seed and tasting like honey. Despite attempts to explain it scientifically, manna remains primarily a spiritual symbol.
This miracle not only nourished their bodies but also reinforced their faith. It showed them that God was with them, guiding and providing for their needs in challenging times. The story of manna continues to inspire those who seek to understand the importance of faith and reliance on a higher power.