John 14:12

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.

Study Bible

Truly, truly
The phrase "Truly, truly" is translated from the Greek "ἀμὴν ἀμὴν" (amen amen), which is a solemn affirmation of truth. In the Jewish tradition, "amen" is a declaration of affirmation, often used at the end of prayers. Here, Jesus uses it at the beginning of His statement to emphasize the certainty and importance of what He is about to say. This double use underscores the gravity and reliability of His promise, inviting the listener to pay close attention and trust in His words.

I tell you
This phrase indicates a direct and personal communication from Jesus to His disciples. The Greek "λέγω ὑμῖν" (lego hymin) suggests an intimate and authoritative declaration. Jesus is not merely sharing information; He is imparting a truth that is meant to transform the lives of His followers. It is a personal assurance from the Savior to each believer, emphasizing the relational aspect of His teaching.

whoever believes in Me
The Greek word for "believes" is "πιστεύων" (pisteuōn), which implies a deep, abiding trust and faith. This is not a superficial acknowledgment but a profound commitment to Jesus as Lord and Savior. The phrase "in Me" highlights the object of this faith—Jesus Himself. It is a call to a personal relationship with Christ, where belief is not just intellectual assent but a transformative trust that aligns one's life with His will.

will also do the works that I am doing
The "works" refer to the miraculous deeds and acts of compassion that characterized Jesus' ministry. The Greek "ἔργα" (erga) encompasses both physical miracles and spiritual acts of service. Jesus is empowering His followers to continue His mission on earth, suggesting that through faith and the power of the Holy Spirit, believers can participate in His redemptive work. This promise is both a challenge and an encouragement, calling Christians to live out their faith actively.

He will do even greater things than these
The phrase "even greater things" is intriguing and often debated. The Greek "μείζονα" (meizona) suggests not just more in quantity but greater in scope and impact. Historically, this has been understood to mean that the collective work of the Church, empowered by the Holy Spirit, would surpass Jesus' earthly ministry in reach and influence. This is evident in the spread of the Gospel and the transformation of lives across the world. It is a testament to the power of God working through His people.

because I am going to the Father
This phrase provides the reason for the promise. Jesus' return to the Father signifies the completion of His earthly mission and the beginning of a new era where the Holy Spirit would be sent to empower believers. The Greek "ὅτι" (hoti) indicates causation—because Jesus ascends to the Father, the Holy Spirit is given, enabling believers to carry out His works. This transition marks the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan and the establishment of the Church as His instrument on earth. It is a profound assurance that Jesus' physical departure is not an end but a new beginning for His followers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The central figure in this passage, Jesus is speaking to His disciples, offering them assurance and a promise of empowerment.

2. The Disciples
The immediate audience of Jesus' promise, representing all future believers who would carry on His work.

3. The Father
God the Father, to whom Jesus refers as the source of His authority and the one to whom He is returning.

4. The Works of Jesus
Refers to the miracles, teachings, and acts of service that Jesus performed during His earthly ministry.

5. The Greater Works
The promise that believers will do greater works, which can be understood as the expansive reach and impact of the Gospel through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Teaching Points

Belief and Empowerment
True belief in Jesus empowers believers to continue His work. This empowerment comes through faith and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

The Role of the Holy Spirit
The promise of "greater works" is fulfilled through the Holy Spirit, who equips and enables believers to expand the reach of the Gospel.

The Global Impact of the Gospel
The "greater works" are not necessarily more miraculous but are greater in scope and reach, as the Gospel spreads worldwide.

Faith in Action
Believers are called to actively participate in the mission of Christ, trusting in His promise to work through them.

The Assurance of Jesus' Promise
Jesus' return to the Father assures believers of His ongoing intercession and the fulfillment of His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the role of the Holy Spirit help us grasp the meaning of "greater works" in John 14:12?

2. In what ways can we, as modern believers, participate in the "greater works" Jesus promised?

3. How does the promise of empowerment in John 14:12 encourage you in your personal faith journey?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to ensure you are living out the "greater works" in your community?

5. How do the connections to other scriptures, such as Acts 1:8 and Matthew 28:18-20, enhance your understanding of Jesus' promise in John 14:12?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 1:8
This verse connects to the promise of empowerment by the Holy Spirit, enabling believers to be witnesses to the ends of the earth.

Ephesians 3:20-21
Highlights God's ability to do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine, through His power at work within us.

Philippians 4:13
Emphasizes the strength and capability believers have through Christ.

Matthew 28:18-20
The Great Commission, where Jesus commands His disciples to make disciples of all nations, reflecting the "greater works" through the spread of the Gospel.

Mark 16:17-18
Jesus speaks of signs that will accompany those who believe, indicating the miraculous works believers will perform.