2:22; cf. John 20:30). Similarly, miracles are accrediting signs related to the apostles (2 Cor. 12:12) and to the first proclamation of the gospel by Jesus and those that heard him (Heb. 2:3–4). I do not deny that these same miracles frequently expressed the compassion of the Lord. They also provided glimpses into the nature of God’s kingdom as manifestations of the divine power that is able to overcome the effects of sin. But the primary purpose of the miracles was as signs of authentication pointing