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The Meaning of MiraclesThe Meaning of Miracles
(Mark 4:35-41)
How do modern people explain the miracles of Jesus?
"Men of Israel, listen to these words: Jesus the Nazarene, a man attested
to you by God with miracles and wonders and signs which God performed through
him in your midst, just as your yourselves know." (Acts 2:22, cf. also 2
Corinthians12:12; 2 Thessalonians 2:9)
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The term 'Miracle' (dunamis), emphasizes the mighty work that has
been done, and, in particular, the power by which it was accomplished. The
even is described in terms of the power of God in action
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If 'Miracle emphasizes the cause of the miraculous event, 'Wonder' (teras),
underscores its effect on those who are witnesses. On many occasions, the
crowds (even the disciples) were amazed and astonished by the works of our
Lord (e.g. Mark 2:12; 4:41; 6:51 etc.).
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The most poignant term used with reference to the miracles or our Lord is
'Sign' (se,, meion), which focuses upon the deeper meaning of the miracle. A
sign is a miracle which conveys a truth about our Lord Jesus. A miracle is
usually a sign but a sign need not always be a miracle. (cf. Like 2:12).
The miracles of our Lord are at one and the same time a visible manifestation
of divine power (miracle), an awe-inspiring spectacle (wonder), and an
instructive revelation about God (sign.
Classification of the Miracles
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Those which pertain to nature
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Those which pertain to man
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Those which pertain to the spirit world
Characteristics of the Miracles of Our Lord
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They were truly historical
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They were reasonable
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They were useful
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They were accomplished openly
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They were accomplished simply
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They were accomplished instantly
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They were accomplished in a variety of circumstances
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They were accomplished on the basis of faith
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They were eschatological
The purpose of Miracles
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They attracted men
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The accredited Jesus
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They reveal God
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