What made a sign more than just a miracle?
A sign was more than a miracle because it had an intrinsic lesson for the nation of Israel. While all signs are miracles, not all miracles are signs. God used signs when dealing with Israel, who required a sign, making it a manifestation of His power with specific instructive purpose.
Les explains that a sign is not merely a display of power; it is a miracle with a built-in lesson for Israel. He notes that all signs are miracles, but not all miracles are signs. The sign was God's method when He was dealing with the nation of Israel, who required a sign, so it carried an intrinsic lesson for them. Les also points out that the Gospel of John records eight signs, seven before the crucifixion and the eighth after the resurrection, with seven indicating completion.
Then said Jesus unto him, Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe.
More Questions
Why did God use signs instead of ordinary miracles when dealing with Israel?
God used signs specifically when He was dealing with the nation of Israel and trying to show them something, because the Jews required a sign.
For whom and why did God use signs?
God used signs for the Jewish people, because the Jew required a sign, particularly when God was coming down on the nation of Israel and trying to show them things.
What is the relationship between signs and miracles in the Bible?
All signs are miracles, but not all miracles are signs.