In what ways can we apply John 14:12 in our daily lives? Setting the promise in context “Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever believes in Me will also do the works that I am doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.” (John 14:12) Jesus has just promised the disciples continual access to the Father through prayer (vv. 13-14) and the coming Helper, the Holy Spirit (vv. 16-17). The “greater things” flow out of that divine partnership. What are the “greater works”? • A wider reach—after Pentecost, the gospel spread from Jerusalem to the nations (Acts 1:8; 17:6). • A multiplied impact—thousands saved in a day (Acts 2:41), compared with the hundreds who heard Jesus in person. • Ongoing signs of the kingdom—healings, deliverance, and supernatural guidance (Acts 3:6-8; 8:6-7; 16:9-10). • Transformed lives—dead hearts made alive by the new birth (Ephesians 2:1-10). Foundation: believing union with Jesus • “Apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5) • “The one who joins himself to the Lord is one spirit with Him.” (1 Corinthians 6:17). Faith is not a one-time decision but a continual dependence on the risen Christ and His indwelling Spirit. Practical ways to live out John 14:12 1. Cultivate bold, specific prayer • “Whatever you ask in My name, this I will do.” (John 14:13) • Keep a prayer journal; expect measurable answers that glorify the Son. 2. Share the gospel regularly • “We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” (Acts 4:20) • Look for daily openings—family conversations, workplace breaks, online posts. 3. Serve with supernatural compassion • Lay hands on the sick (Mark 16:17-18). • Offer practical help—meals, rides, childcare—while trusting God for miracles. 4. Exercise spiritual gifts • “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” (1 Corinthians 12:7) • Identify your gifts, receive training, and use them in your local church. 5. Disciple others intentionally • “Teach them to observe all that I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:20) • Meet weekly with a newer believer; pass on what the Lord has taught you. 6. Depend on the Holy Spirit’s guidance • “Those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.” (Romans 8:14) • Pause before decisions; ask, listen, and obey promptings consistent with Scripture. 7. Walk in daily obedience • “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” (John 14:15) • Small acts of faithfulness—honesty, purity, forgiveness—create a platform for larger works. 8. Engage in works of mercy and justice • “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds.” (Matthew 5:16) • Volunteer at crisis-pregnancy centers, food banks, prison ministries. 9. Support and participate in missions • Pray, give, and—if called—go, so the unreached can hear (Romans 10:14-15). 10. Expect God to exceed your limitations • “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine.” (Ephesians 3:20) • Keep your vision aligned with His promises, not your comfort zone. Living it out today Believe Jesus meant what He said. Lean on His Spirit, obey His word, and step into situations that require His power. As we do, Christ continues His works through us, and the watching world sees that He is alive. |
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