How can we apply the promise of "greater things" to our faith today? The Verse at the Center “Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever believes in Me will also do the works I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.” (John 14:12) Why This Promise Matters - It is given to “whoever believes,” making it universal for all genuine disciples. - It is tied to Christ’s departure and the sending of the Holy Spirit (John 16:7). - It affirms that the risen, ascended Lord continues His ministry through His people. What “Greater Things” Means - Greater in scope: from a limited geographic region to “Jerusalem… Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). - Greater in number: thousands saved in a single day (Acts 2:41). - Greater in spiritual impact: the full gospel proclaimed after the cross and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). Foundational Truths Behind the Promise 1. Christ’s finished work on the cross (John 19:30). 2. His resurrection power at work in believers (Ephesians 1:19-20). 3. The indwelling Holy Spirit enabling every good work (John 14:16-17; Acts 1:8). Practical Ways to Apply the Promise Today • Expectant Faith – Approach each day believing God still saves, heals, and delivers (Hebrews 13:8). – Pray boldly in Jesus’ name, trusting His authority (John 14:13-14). • Spirit-Led Obedience – Yield to the Spirit’s promptings; He orchestrates “greater things” (Galatians 5:25). – Step out when He nudges—share the gospel, pray for the sick, serve sacrificially. • Gospel Multiplication – Disciple others who will in turn disciple others (2 Timothy 2:2). – Use technology and travel to spread the message farther and faster than ever. • Persistent Intercession – Pray for unreached peoples, persecuted believers, and revival in local churches (Colossians 4:2-4). – Believe God for results beyond human ability (Ephesians 3:20). • Everyday Witness – Integrate faith into workplace, school, and neighborhood conversations (1 Peter 3:15). – Model Christlike character so good works glorify the Father (Matthew 5:16). Common Barriers and How to Overcome Them - Doubt: Counter with Scripture meditation (Romans 10:17). - Fear of failure: Remember success is measured by obedience, not visible outcome (1 Corinthians 4:2). - Self-reliance: Cultivate dependence on the Spirit through prayer and fasting (Zechariah 4:6; Matthew 6:16-18). Encouraging Biblical Snapshots • Peter—once fearful, later preaches and 3,000 believe (Acts 2). • Stephen—performs “great wonders and signs” among the people (Acts 6:8). • Philip—brings the gospel to Samaria, with miracles and joy in the city (Acts 8:5-8). • Ordinary believers—scattered by persecution, they “went forth preaching the word” (Acts 8:4). Keeping the Promise in Focus - Anchor every expectation in Christ’s character and Word. - Stay humble; the power is His, not ours (2 Corinthians 4:7). - Celebrate every testimony, small or large, as evidence that Jesus still fulfills His promise of “greater things.” |
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