How can believers today discern true signs from false ones, based on this verse? The Benchmark: 2 Corinthians 12:12 “ The true marks of an apostle—signs, wonders, and miracles—were performed among you with great perseverance.” What Made a Sign “True” in Paul’s Day • It confirmed an apostle’s divine commissioning (Acts 2:43; Hebrews 2:3-4). • It agreed with previously revealed Scripture (Isaiah 8:20). • It promoted the gospel of Christ, not the fame of the worker (Acts 14:3). • It was accompanied by steadfast endurance, not flashy showmanship (“with great perseverance”). Why False Signs Still Show Up • Jesus warned that “false christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect” (Matthew 24:24). • The enemy can mimic the miraculous (Exodus 7:10-12; 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10). • People often crave the spectacular more than the truth (2 Timothy 4:3-4). Four Tests for Discernment Today 1. Scriptural Test • Compare every sign, prophecy, or “word” with the written Word. • “Even if a prophet or dreamer… performs a sign or wonder, but says, ‘Let us follow other gods,’ … you must not listen” (Deuteronomy 13:1-3). • The Spirit never contradicts Himself (Psalm 119:160). 2. Christ-Exalting Test • True signs magnify Jesus’ person and finished work (John 16:14; Revelation 19:10). • If the spotlight stays on the performer, the source is suspect (Acts 3:12-13). 3. Moral / Fruit Test • “You will recognize them by their fruit” (Matthew 7:16-18). • Look for holiness, humility, love, and obedience in the minister’s life (Galatians 5:22-23; 1 John 3:7-10). 4. Perseverance Test • Paul’s miracles came “with great perseverance.” Consistency over time exposes pretenders (1 John 2:19). • A ministry that endures hardship while remaining faithful carries a stronger seal of authenticity (2 Corinthians 6:4-10). Practical Steps for the Local Church • Teach the whole counsel of God so members recognize counterfeits (Acts 20:27-31). • Encourage believers to “test the spirits” (1 John 4:1) and “examine everything; hold fast to what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). • Maintain plurality and accountability among leaders (Acts 13:1-3). • Record and weigh prophetic words publicly (1 Corinthians 14:29-33). • Look for the edification of the body, not mere entertainment (1 Corinthians 14:26). Living with Expectation and Caution • God still confirms His Word “by signs and wonders and various miracles” (Hebrews 2:4). • Seek the Giver more than the gifts (Luke 10:20). • Stay anchored in Scripture, centered on Christ, and filled with the Spirit; then you can welcome the true and refuse the false with confidence and joy. |
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