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.