John 14:12-15 is about Jesus speaking to his disciples, promising that those who believe in him will do greater works than he did, emphasizing the importance of love for him displayed through obedience to his commandments.
12 “Truly, truly, I say to you, 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.
13 Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
14 If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.
15 “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.”
Setting the Scene for John 14:12-15
In John chapter 14, Jesus is gathered with his disciples in the upper room in Jerusalem, just before the Passover feast. The room is dimly lit by oil lamps, casting a warm glow over the group of men seated around a low table. The air is heavy with anticipation and a sense of impending change.
The disciples, including Peter, James, John, and the others, are listening intently to Jesus as he speaks to them about his impending departure. They are feeling a mix of confusion, fear, and sadness at the thought of their beloved teacher leaving them. Jesus, sensing their emotions, reassures them that although he will physically leave them, he will send the Holy Spirit to be with them and guide them.
As Jesus speaks, there is a sense of intimacy and deep connection in the room, as if time itself has slowed down to allow for this important moment of teaching and comfort. The disciples hang on Jesus’ every word, their hearts heavy with the knowledge that their time together is drawing to a close.
What is John 14:12-15 about?
Jesus in this verse is making a profound statement about the capabilities of believers who have faith in him. He is assuring followers that they are not limited to simply replicating the works he did but that they are capable of even greater feats. This promise highlights the power of faith and the potential for believers to make a significant impact in the world through their actions and deeds. Jesus emphasizes the importance of obedience as a demonstration of love for him. Believers show their commitment and devotion to him by following his teachings and commands. Obedience is presented as a way to express love for Jesus and strengthen the relationship between believers and their savior. It serves as a tangible way to demonstrate faith and trust in his guidance and promises. We are called to consider the depth of our faith and the ways in which we can demonstrate our love for Jesus as we reflect on this verse. Are we willing to trust in his promises and step out in faith to do greater works? Are we committed to obeying his teachings as a way to show our love for him? Jesus invites us to walk in faith, trust in his promises, and demonstrate our love through obedience. Let us embrace this call and strive to fulfill the potential he sees in us.
Understanding what John 14:12-15 really means
During the Last Supper, Jesus shared profound truths with His disciples, preparing them for His imminent departure. One of the key themes He emphasized was the promise of greater works for those who believe in Him, stating that they would do even greater things than He had done during His earthly ministry. This empowering statement signifies that through faith, believers continue the mission of Christ, extending His work beyond what was witnessed during His time on earth. Acts 1:8 and Ephesians 3:20 further reinforce this idea, reminding us that the power of the Holy Spirit enables us to accomplish extraordinary feats in God’s name. How does this promise resonate with you today? Have you witnessed or been part of a work that exceeded your expectations, showcasing the power of faith in action?
Moreover, Jesus assured His followers that whatever they ask in His name, aligning with God’s will, would be granted to them. This promise of answered prayer underscores the importance of seeking God’s glory and purpose in our requests. Drawing parallels with 1 John 5:14-15 and Matthew 7:7, we are encouraged to approach God with confidence, knowing that He hears our prayers and responds according to His perfect will. Can you recall a time when your prayers, offered in alignment with God’s purposes, led to a remarkable answer or intervention? How does this assurance impact your prayer life and your trust in God’s faithfulness?
Furthermore, Jesus reiterated the significance of asking in His name, emphasizing that He would indeed fulfill our requests. This reaffirmation of answered prayer underscores the necessity of aligning our desires with God’s will and purposes. Reflecting on John 15:7 and James 4:3, we are reminded of the importance of seeking God’s will above our own desires when approaching Him in prayer. Have you experienced the profound impact of praying in Jesus’ name, witnessing how aligning your requests with God’s purposes can lead to transformative outcomes?
Lastly, Jesus linked love for Him with obedience to His commands, highlighting that true devotion is demonstrated through following His teachings. This call to obedience echoes throughout Scripture, emphasizing that keeping God’s commands is a tangible expression of our love for Him. John 15:10 and 1 John 5:3 reinforce this idea, portraying obedience not as a burden but as a natural outpouring of our love for God. Can you recall a moment when your obedience to Christ’s teachings led to a positive transformation in your life or the lives of others? How does your love for Jesus manifest in your daily actions and decisions?
In conclusion, the promises Jesus made to His disciples during the Last Supper continue to resonate with believers today. The assurance of greater works through faith, the power of prayer when aligned with God’s will, and the significance of obedience to Christ’s commands are timeless truths that shape our walk with Him. As you reflect on these teachings, consider how you can apply them in your own life, trusting in God’s faithfulness to fulfill His promises. May you experience the fullness of these truths in your journey with Christ, growing in faith, prayer, and obedience as you seek to glorify Him in all you do.
How can we demonstrate our love for Jesus?
We can demonstrate our love for Jesus by keeping His commandments. This means following His teachings and example in our daily lives. When we strive to live in a way that is in line with what Jesus has taught us, we show our love and devotion to Him. We demonstrate our willingness to put our trust in Him and follow His guidance by obeying His commandments.
Another way to demonstrate our love for Jesus is by placing our faith in Him and truly believing in His words. We can show our love by nurturing a deep and personal relationship with Jesus through prayer, worship, and studying the Bible. We show our love for Him through our commitment to knowing Him more deeply as we seek to grow closer to Him and deepen our understanding of His teachings.
Additionally, we can demonstrate our love for Jesus by sharing His love with others. This can be done through acts of kindness, compassion, and reaching out to those in need. We demonstrate our love for Him and fulfill His commandment to love one another as He has loved us by being a light in the world and reflecting the love of Jesus in all that we do.
Application
Think of John 14:12-15 like a challenge at work. If you believe in God’s power, you’ll achieve more than you ever imagined. Just like tackling a big project for your family, the faith you show can lead to incredible results. Follow His guidance with a heart full of love, as your actions showcase your dedication. How will you rise to meet this powerful call and make a difference today?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.