Jesus replied, “I have shown you many good works from the Father. For which of these works are you stoning me?” (John 10:32)
Belief in miracles without belief in Jesus is an inadequate belief. Read that again: if you have faith in miracles, but do not have faith in Jesus, your faith is insufficient. Why? You cannot separate the two. You cannot separate the works from the Person. God is consistent in his being and person. So our faith requires belief in both the works and the good Shepherd.
Why does that matter? It’s no good to believe in miracles but not a God who does them: Then your life would be up to random whims of the universe. You feel joyous when “miracles” occur but since you do not praise the Creator, joy fades quickly as life returns to the routine. Ho hum. The Father is eternally joyous.
And what good is believing in God but not miracles? Then this “God” seems detached, like a clockmaker who stands apart after setting into motion the timepiece. You may believe in God but you wouldn’t believe that He is good or cares for you.
Interestingly, Jesus says that when you “believe the works”, then you will understand Jesus is one with the Father (10:38). Therefore, faith brings understanding, rather than the other way around. You must believe first before you understand. Understanding doesn’t always come before believing. This is why apologetics is limited in impact. Belief must on some level come first.
How can you believe? All of the works that Jesus had done testify about him. They tell of his goodness and compassion. They speak of his mercy and favor on the undeserving. We need to believe in this Jesus. Jesus is the Good Shepherd who cares and protects you. He will keep you. He is also a Miracle Worker– doing wonderful things today. Friend, hear His voice and respond to His call today!