§. 33. Of a Miracle.
A Miracle, according to the notation of the a 1.1 Latine word, from whence this English word is taken, signifieth such a thing as causeth wonder, or is in it self wonderfull. In the common use of it, it signifieth a wonder in the highest de∣gree: which ariseth from something that is supernaturall.
From the forementioned three words, and the end of setting them down here, this description of a miracle may be raised.
A miracle is a visible, wonderfull work, done by the Almighty power of God, above, or against the course of nature, to confirm some Divine truth.
- 1. A miracle is a work or a true act: not a meer shew or appearance of that which is not. Herein it differs from such an appearance as was represented to Saul, 1 Sam. 28. 12. And from all jugling delusions: Such as the Sorcerers of Egypt u∣sed, Exod. 7. 11, 12. & 8. 7.
- 2. It is a visible work: such an one as men may see, and thereupon be moved therewith, as the Israelites were, 1 King. 18. 39. The pretence of transubstantia∣tion, wherein no visible alteration of the creature is to be seen, is against the nature of a miracle, which is a sign.
- 3. It is above the course of nature, or against it. Herein lieth the very form of a miracle: whereby it is distinguished from other wonders, which may be extra∣ordinary, though not simply supernaturall: such as the second beast did, Rev. 13. 13.
- 4. It is done by the Almighty power of God. No man, no Angel, whether good or evil, can alter the course which the Creator hath set to his creature. That power God hath reserved to himself. Pretended miracles wrought by the power of the devil, are but pretended.
- 5. The proper end of a true miracle is to confirm a Divine truth: this was pro∣ved before, §. 30. All the miracles boasted of by Papists, for proof of any of their hereticall and idolatrous positions, or practises, are counterfeit.