Calvin points out quite rightly in his Institutes (Prefatory Address, p. 17, Battles edition) that Satan too, has his  miracles which are nothing but deceitful tricks rather than true powers. They are of the kind that lead simple-minded and untutored folk astray. He then says that magicians and enchanters have always been noted for miracles, and idolatry is nourished by these so-called miracles. He concludes with these words,“What shall we say except that it has always been, and ever will be, a very just punishment of God to ‘send to those’ who have not received the love of the truth ‘a strong delusion to make them believe a lie'” (2 Thess. 2:11).

Is it any wonder that many seek miracles today as proof for their faith? What faith can it really be? Faith requires no miracle. Faith “is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen” (Heb. 11:1). Note those words, ‘assurance’ and ‘conviction’. Can God do miracles? Of course he can. Does God do miracles? No doubt he does everyday. But not the miracles the modern seeker of wonders desires. So beware of those who run after signs and wonders. They are not necessary for faith. Rather, if God in his grace should reveal himself in such a way to us, they are cause for worship and submission, for encouragement and endurance of and in the faith.