Why did Jesus perform miracles and signs among the nation of Israel?
Jesus performed miracles, wonders, and signs among Israel to prove He was the promised Messiah and King, ready to give them the kingdom, and also to be their Redeemer. These signs authenticated His messianic identity to the nation, which God did by Him in their midst.
Les explains that the Pentecost message was addressed specifically to “Ye men of Israel,” with nothing concerning the Gentiles. Jesus of Nazareth was a man approved of God among them by miracles, wonders, and signs that God did by Him in their midst, as they themselves knew. The purpose was to prove He was the promised Messiah, the King, ready to give them the kingdom, and also to be their Redeemer. Les also notes that David spoke prophetically of Christ’s coming, death, and resurrection—not yet as salvation for Gentiles, but so everything could be fulfilled, making Him Israel’s Redeemer so Israel could pass it out to surrounding nations and be priests.
Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: