Joh 14:12 | MHM | STEP | Christ's Consolatory Discourse. Here, Jesus continues to comfort his disciples. They are sad about being separated from him and also worried about what will happen when he leaves. Jesus had always been their guide and protector. Now, he promises them new strength and power. He assures them that, even though he is leaving, they will not be left alone or helpless. They will have power through him, both on earth and with heaven’s help. v. 12 : Jesus says, He that believes in me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do . This does not weaken his claim to be one with the Father. Instead, it shows his power, because his followers will do miracles in his name and by faith in him. Jesus did many miracles—he healed the sick, cleansed lepers, and even raised the dead (Matthew 10:8 ). His disciples will do the same kinds of works, and even greater ones. For example, Peter healed with his shadow (Acts 5:15 ), and Paul healed with a handkerchief (Acts 19:12 ). Jesus’ miracles happened in one place and for a few years, but his disciples did miracles in many places and for many years. Also, through the gospel, they would bring many people to believe in Christ, which is even greater. The gift of tongues, given by the Holy Spirit, allowed the disciples to preach to people in many languages, spreading the gospel across the world (1 Corinthians 14:22 ). The reason for these great works is, Because I go unto my Father (John 14:12 ). When Jesus leaves, the disciples will need this power so the work can continue. By going to the Father, Jesus will send the Holy Spirit to them, giving them the strength they need (Acts 1:8 ). These miracles will show Jesus’ glory, especially after he returns to heaven (Ephesians 4:8 ). Jesus also promises, “Whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father.” Jesus is saying that those who trust in Him will continue His mission and, through the power of the Holy Spirit, do even greater works. This refers to the spread of the gospel and the building of the church in the world.

‏ John 14:12

Christ's Consolatory Discourse.

Here, Jesus continues to comfort his disciples. They are sad about being separated from him and also worried about what will happen when he leaves. Jesus had always been their guide and protector. Now, he promises them new strength and power. He assures them that, even though he is leaving, they will not be left alone or helpless. They will have power through him, both on earth and with heaven’s help.

v. 12: Jesus says, He that believes in me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do . This does not weaken his claim to be one with the Father. Instead, it shows his power, because his followers will do miracles in his name and by faith in him. Jesus did many miracles—he healed the sick, cleansed lepers, and even raised the dead (Matthew 10:8 ^a). His disciples will do the same kinds of works, and even greater ones. For example, Peter healed with his shadow (Acts 5:15 ^b), and Paul healed with a handkerchief (Acts 19:12 ^c). Jesus’ miracles happened in one place and for a few years, but his disciples did miracles in many places and for many years. Also, through the gospel, they would bring many people to believe in Christ, which is even greater. The gift of tongues, given by the Holy Spirit, allowed the disciples to preach to people in many languages, spreading the gospel across the world (1 Corinthians 14:22 ^d).

The reason for these great works is, Because I go unto my Father (John 14:12 ^e). When Jesus leaves, the disciples will need this power so the work can continue. By going to the Father, Jesus will send the Holy Spirit to them, giving them the strength they need (Acts 1:8 ^f). These miracles will show Jesus’ glory, especially after he returns to heaven (Ephesians 4:8 ^g).

Jesus also promises, “Whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father.” Jesus is saying that those who trust in Him will continue His mission and, through the power of the Holy Spirit, do even greater works. This refers to the spread of the gospel and the building of the church in the world.