Gospels, Part 3: Miracles – Salvation Enacted

Summary: Much of Jesus' ministry - and the Gospel descriptions thereof - revolve around his "miracles" (the Gk. word is best translated "works of power"). But what was their purpose? Did they simply serve to impress his audience, to demonstrate his might or authority? Or are they part and parcel of the declaration that "the kingdom of God has come near"?<br> <br> In this episode we examine Jesus' healing of a paralyzed man as a window into the larger ministry of salvation - of setting God's creation right (both physically and judicially). In particular we explore Jewish expectations - rooted in the Hebrew scriptures - of what salvation would entail, and how Jesus' fulfills and expands this vision.<br>