According to the Baha'i teachings, all Prophets perform miracles (saq 100-2), and indeed a proof of Baha'u'llah is the "miracles He performed" (sel writ abdul-baha 16). However, Baha'u'llah counsels us not to recount miracles (esw 33). Abdul-Baha explains: (127:1)

"many wonderful things (miracles) were done by Baha'u'llah, but we do not recount them, as they do not constitute proofs and evidences for all the peoples of the earth, and they are not decisive proofs even for those who see them: they may think that they are merely enchantments." (saq 45) (this from a man who performed many miracles himself -ed) (127:2)

Obviously, it is preferable to rest our faith on the most solid ground. Abdul-Baha points out that it is not possible to consider events that none of us are able to witness personally as incontrovertible proof. We are unable to prove that the miracles recorded in the Holy Text are actual instances of the contravention of the laws of nature and not symbolic accounts written to convey spiritual truths. Furthermore, even if we accept these miracles as proof, how do we distinguish them from the miracles attributed to other persons?.. (see saq chs 10 and 22) (127:3)

There are at least two biblical passages indicating that miracles are not the "fruits" Christ advises us to stake our faith on: (128:1)

1 Jesus indicates that we should not ask for, or seek, signs (i.e.: miracles) when He said: "An evil and adulterous generation seeks after a sign" Matthew Chapter 12 verse 39 . (128:2)

2 Jesus indicates that the working of a miracle is not limited to true Prophets when He said: "For false christs and false prophets will arise and show great signs and wonders, so as to deceive, if possible, even the elect." Matthew Chapter 24 verse 24 . (128:3)

If the Bible states we should not seek miracles and if we know that someone who works or claims to work miracles may well be a false prophet, how can we use miracles as a criterion for divinity? Once again, it is evident that we must ultimately rely on the evidence of their divine perfectionsMatthew Chapter 24 verse 24 . (128:4)

According to the Baha'i point of view both prophecies and miracles constitute evidence of a true Prophet. However, such evidence is not regarded as conclusive. Problems, such as the verification of the performance of miracles and the fulfillment of prophecies, make miracles and prophecies too unreliable. However, the teachings of the Prophet can be heard by everyone. Since the teachings reflect the divine perfections of God, and everyone can hear or read the teachings for themselves, the teachings are the most verifiable testimony that the Prophet is a Manifestation of God. These reasons indicate why the teachings are the "greatest" proof.Matthew Chapter 24 verse 24 . (128:6)

Peter is speaking of miracles performed through Christ in their "midst." Because Peter's audience had seen these miracles, to them they constituted proof. The text does not suggest that one should rely exclusively on miracles. Also, we have assumed that the text means "miracles" in the literal and physical sense. It is worth noting that this is an interpretation of which we cannot be sure. Many of the miracles performed by Christ have been explained in a number of reasonable ways. The Bible itself sometimes suggests a symbolic meaning. For instance, in the Gospel according to Matthew it is recorded that Christ fed an entire multitude with only seven loaves of bread (mat 15). However, shortly after, Christ equates the leaven of bread with doctrines (mat 16:5-12). Therefore, the miracle of feeding the multitude can be understood as Jesus imparting the Word of God (john 1:1-14) and the "bread of God" (john 6:33). As long as there is a reasonable and spiritual explanation, there is no compelling reason to insist that the miracle involved intervention in the laws of nature. Moreover, since most miracle may be symbols concerning the teachings of God, Peter's reference to such spiritual miracles may be another way of referring to the teachings. (129:3) see

It is true that Christ offered Himself as a sacrifice once for all time. That sacrifice was also completely sufficient. According to Baha'i belief, it is not the insufficiency of past Prophets that brings about the unfolding of a new Revelation, it is rather the incompetency and waywardness of humankind. That Baha'u'llah suffered for humanity is yet another sign of God's unfailing grace toward humankind. Concerning the renewal of religion Abdul-Baha said:Matthew Chapter 24 verse 24 . (130:2)

"Now, consider: Christ frequently repeated that the Ten Commandments in the Pentateuch were to be followed, and He insisted that they should be maintained. Among the Ten Commandments is one which says: `Do not worship any picture or image.' At present in some of the Christian churches many pictures and images exist. It is, therefore, clear and evident that the Religion of God does not maintain its original principles among the people, but that it has gradually changed and altered unto it has been entirely destroyed and annihilated. Because of this the manifestation is renewed, and a new religion established. But if religions did not change and alter, there would be no need of renewal. Some Ans Questions 1908 Page 165 to 6 . (131:1)

Concerning the return of Christ, the Bible testifies that Christ will come back to defeat the armies of darkness which will wage war against Him (rev 19:19-20). This prophecy states that Christ will be opposed but that He will prevail. Interpreted literally: Christ destroys His opponents militarily. But if we interpret these passages symbolically, they can be understood as foretelling that He will be persecuted, will again suffer, and through this sacrifice will be victorious over His enemies. (131:2) see

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Understand Biblical Evidence
Michael Sours