12:12 signs of a true apostle. According to common understanding, the “signs of a true apostle” were simply miracles, “wonders and mighty works.” Yet throughout this epistle Paul points to other marks that distinguish him from the false apostles: the changed lives of the Corinthians (3:2, 3), the blameless character of his ministry (6:3–10; 7:2; 8:20, 21), his genuine love for his churches (6:11, 12; 7:3; 11:7–11), and his sacrificial endurance of suffering (6:3–10; 11:23–33). In addition to these marks, Paul is ready to mention miraculous signs, but not to dwell on them. See 1 Cor. 13:2; “The Apostles” at Acts 1:26.