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1 Peter 4:11“Speak as the oracles of God”
What does the Bible say? Have miracles ceased?
Signs: of miracles and wonders by which God
authenticates the men sent by him, or by which men prove that the cause they are pleading is God's (Thayer)
Wonders: "something strange," causing the beholder to
marvel, is always used in the plural, always rendered "wonders," and generally follows semeia, "signs“.
A sign is intended to appeal to the understanding, a "wonder" appeals to the imagination, (Vine).
Miracles, powers (dunamis): "power, inherent ability," is used of works of a
supernatural origin and character, such as could not be produced by natural agents and means (Vine).
Why did Jesus perform miracles? “A man attested by God” (Acts 2:22).
“A teacher come from God” (John 3:2; 6:2).
“The Coming One”, “The Son of David” (Matt 11:2-5; cf. Isa 61; 12:22-23).
“That you may believe….” (John 20:30-31).
Why did Apostles perform miracles? To “bear witness” & “confirm” that the teaching
done had a Divine Source: God (Heb 2:3-4).
“Confirm” – to make firm, establish, make sure (Thayer).
“God also bearing them witness” (KJV) – to attest together with; to unite in adding testimony (Thayer)
Not everyone was healed within their purview (John 5:2-9; emph. 3; Phil 2:27; 2 Tim 4:20).
Initially, only the apostles had the power to perform miracles (Acts 2:42-43). Later, Stephen (Acts 6:5-8) & Phillip (Acts 8:5-6,
12; purpose: 6, 12) were working miracles.
That ability came from the apostles (Acts 6:6).
Only the apostles dispensed miraculous ability (Acts 8:13-24; cf. 18). A safeguard against the dispensing the power to
the wrong people.
A safeguard that put a limit on the time for miracles (during the lifetime of the apostles).
Jesus made no provision for apostolic succession.
If a miracle is only an unexplainable event, then the purpose of that event is left up to anyone’s imagination.
True miracles took place for a specific purpose (to confirm God’s word), & they were performed by specific people (apostles & those upon whom they laid hands).
WHEN…? “When that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part will be done away” (1 Cor 13:10). The portions of Truth revealed by the gifts of
the Holy Spirit (13:8; 12:8-10).
“The perfects law of liberty (Jas 1:25).
“All things … to life & godliness (2 Pet 1:3).
“All the Truth (John 16:13).
Not only does the Bible teach that the need & source of miracles have ceased,
God tells us when they ceased.
Make sure your choice of words suggest the meaning God intended.
fellowship, ministry, grace, saint miracle.