2 Corinthians 12:12

The "signs of an apostle" refer generally to the supernatural gifts and activities that marked the true apostles. This reference seems to indicate that Paul was referring to the Twelve rather than to the professed apostles when he used the term "super-apostles" (2 Corinthians 12:11; 2 Corinthians 11:5). God had enabled Paul to manifest these signs, so he described them as being done among them rather than as having done them. Paul’s perseverance in his apostolic mission in Corinth despite much opposition distinguished him from the false apostles (cf. 2 Corinthians 10:1; 2 Corinthians 11:4; 2 Corinthians 13:14; Acts 18:6; Acts 18:9-10; Acts 18:12-16). "Signs," "wonders," and "miracles" are synonymous terms that emphasize respectively their authenticating value, astonishing effect, and supernatural power.

"These passages [i.e., Acts 2:22; Romans 15:18-19; 2 Thessalonians 2:9; Hebrews 2:4] demonstrate that in the New Testament the purpose of signs and wonders and powers is that of authentication, even when deceitfully imitated by satanic forces." [Note: Hughes, p. 457.]