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John 14:12
Verse
Context
The Way, the Truth, and the Life
11Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me—or at least believe on account of the works themselves.12Truly, 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.13And I will do whatever you ask in My name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
Sermons
Kathryn KuhlmanKathryn Kuhlman
Francis ChanKathryn Kuhlman
David Wilkerson
Major Ian ThomasFrancis ChanSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And greater works than these - The miracles which I have wrought could not have been wrought but by the omnipotence of God; but that omnipotence can work greater. And those who believe on my name shall, through my almighty power, be enabled to work greater miracles than those which l have ordinarily wrought. An impostor might seduce the people by false miracles; but he could not make his power and cunning pass to all those who were seduced by him: but I will give you this proof of the divinity of my mission and the truth of my doctrine. Perhaps the greater works refer to the immense multitudes that were brought to God by the ministry of the apostles. By the apostles was the doctrine of Christ spread far and wide; while Christ confined his ministry chiefly to the precincts of Judea. It is certainly the greatest miracle of Divine grace to convert the obstinate, wicked heart of man from sin to holiness. This was done in numberless cases by the disciples, who were endued with power from on high, while proclaiming remission of sins through faith in his blood. Some account for the greater works thus: 1. The very shadow of Peter healed the diseased, Act 5:15. 2. Diseases were cured, and demons cast out, by applying to the persons handkerchiefs and aprons that had before touched the body of Paul, Act 19:12. 3. By the word of Peter, Ananias and Sapphira were struck dead, Act 5:5, Act 5:9, Act 5:10. 4. Elymas the sorcerer was struck blind by the word of Paul, Act 13:11. 5. Christ only preached in Judea, and in the language only of that country; but the apostles preached through the most of the then known world, and in all the languages of all countries. But let it be remarked that all this was done by the power of Christ; and I think it still more natural to attribute the greater works to the greater number of conversions made under the apostles' ministry. The reason which our Lord gives for this is worthy of deep attention: - Because I go unto my Father - Where I shall be an Intercessor for you, that: -
John Gill Bible Commentary
Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that believeth on me,.... Having mentioned his miracles as proofs of his deity, he assures his disciples, in order to comfort them under the loss of his bodily presence, that they should do the same, and greater works; for we are not to understand these words of everyone that believes in Christ, of every private believer in him, but only of the apostles, and each of them, that were true believers in him: to whom he says, the works that I do shall he do also; he shall raise the dead, heal all manner of diseases, and cast out devils; things which Christ gave his apostles power to do, when he first gave them a commission to preach the Gospel, and when he renewed and enlarged it: and which they did perform, not in their own name, and by their own power, but in the name, and by the power of Christ: and greater works than these shall he do; meaning, not greater in nature and kind, but more in number; for the apostles, in a long series of time, and course of years, went about preaching the Gospel, not in Judea only, but in all the world; "God also bearing them witness with signs and wonders, and divers miracles and gifts of the Holy Ghost", Heb 2:4, wherever they went: though perhaps by these greater works may be meant the many instances of conversion, which the apostles were instrumental in, and which were more in number than those which were under our Lord's personal ministry: besides, the conversion of a sinner is a greater work than any of the miracles of raising the dead, &c. for this includes in it all miracles: here we may see a sinner, dead in trespasses and sins, quickened; one born blind made to see; one who was deaf to the threatenings of the law, and to the charming voice of the Gospel, made to hear, so as to live; and one that had the spreading leprosy of sin all over him, cleansed from it by the blood of the Lamb yea, though a miracle in nature is an instance and proof of divine power, yet the conversion of a sinner, which is a miracle in grace, is not only an instance of the power of God, and of the greatness of it, but of the exceeding greatness of it: and the rather one may be induced to give in to this sense of the passage, since it is added, as a reason, because I go to my Father; and upon my ascension the Spirit will be given, to you, which shall not only enable you to perform miracles, as proofs of your apostleship, and the doctrine you preach, but which shall powerfully attend the Gospel to the conversion of multitudes of souls.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The disciples, as they were full of grief to think of parting with their Master, so they were full of care what would become of themselves when he was gone; while he was with them, he was a support to them, kept them in countenance, kept them in heart; but, if he leave them, they will be as sheep having no shepherd, an easy prey to those who seek to run them down. Now, to silence these fears, Christ here assures them that they should be clothed with powers sufficient to bear them out. As Christ has all power, they, in his name, should have great power, both in heaven and in earth. I. Great power on earth (Joh 14:12): He that believeth on me (as I know you do), the works that I do shall he do also. This does not weaken the argument Christ had taken from his works, to prove himself one with the Father (that others should do as great works), but rather strengthens it; for the miracles which the apostles wrought were wrought in his name, and by faith in him; and this magnifies his power more than any thing, that he not only wrought miracles himself, but gave power to others to do so too. 1. Two things he assures them of: - (1.) That they should be enabled to do such works as he had done, and that they should have a more ample power for the doing of them than they had had when he first sent them forth, Mat 10:8. Did Christ heal the sick, cleanse the leper, raise the dead? So should they. Did he convince and convert sinners, and draw multitudes to him? So should they. Though he should depart, the work should not cease, nor fall to the ground, but should be carried on as vigorously and successfully as ever; and it is still in the doing. (2.) That they should do greater works than these. [1.] In the kingdom of nature they should work greater miracles. No miracle is little, but some to our apprehension seem greater than others. Christ had healed with the hem of his garment, but Peter with his shadow (Act 5:15), Paul by the handkerchief that had touched him, Act 19:12. Christ wrought miracles for two or three years in one country, but his followers wrought miracles in his name for many ages in divers countries. You shall do greater works, if there be occasion, for the glory of God. The prayer of faith, if at any time it had been necessary, would have removed mountains. [2.] In the kingdom of grace. They should obtain greater victories by the gospel than had been obtained while Christ was upon earth. The truth is, the captivating of so great a part of the world to Christ, under such outward disadvantages, was the miracle of all. I think this refers especially to the gift of tongues; this was the immediate effect of the pouring out of the Spirit, which was a constant miracle upon the mind, in which words are framed, and which was made to serve so glorious an intention as that of spreading the gospel to all nations in their own language. This was a greater sign to them that believed not (Co1 14:22), and more powerful for their conviction, than any other miracle whatever. 2. The reason Christ gives for this is, Because I go unto my Father, (1.) "Because I go, it will be requisite that you should have such a power, lest the work suffer damage by my absence." (2.) "Because I go to the Father, I shall be in a capacity to furnish you with such a power, for I go to the Father, to send the Comforter, from whom you shall receive power," Act 1:8. The wonderful works which they did in Christ's name were part of the glories of his exalted state, when he ascended on high, Eph 4:8. II. Great power in heaven: "Whatsoever you shall ask, that will I do (Joh 14:13, Joh 14:14), as Israel, who was a prince with God. Therefore you shall do such mighty works, because you have such an interest in me, and I in my Father." Observe, 1. In what way they were to keep up communion with him, and derive power from him, when he was gone to the Father - by prayer. When dear friends are to be removed to a distance from each other, they provide for the settling of a correspondence; thus, when Christ was going to his Father, he tells his disciples how they might write to him upon every occasion, and send their epistles by a safe and ready way of conveyance, without danger of miscarrying, or lying by the way: "Let me hear from you by prayer, the prayer of faith, and you shall hear from me by the Spirit." This was the old way of intercourse with Heaven, ever since men began to call upon the name of the Lord; but Christ by his death has laid it more open, and it is still open to us. Here is, (1.) Humility prescribed: You shall ask. Though they had quitted all for Christ, they could demand nothing of him as a debt, but must be humble supplicants, beg or starve, beg or perish. (2.) Liberty allowed: "Ask any thing, any thing that is good and proper for you; any thing, provided you know what you ask, you may ask; you may ask for assistance in your work, for a mouth and wisdom, for preservation out of the hands of your enemies, for power to work miracles when there is occasion, for the success of the ministry in the conversion of souls; ask to be informed, directed, vindicated." Occasions vary, but they shall be welcome to the throne of grace upon every occasion. 2. In what name they were to present their petitions: Ask in my name. To ask in Christ's name is, (1.) To plead his merit and intercession, and to depend upon that plea. The Old Testament saints had an eye to this when they prayed for the Lord's sake (Dan 9:17), and for the sake of the anointed (Psa 84:9), but Christ's mediation is brought to a clearer light by the gospel, and so we are enabled more expressly to ask in his name. When Christ dictated the Lord's prayer, this was not inserted, because they did not then so fully understand this matter as they did afterwards, when the Spirit was poured out. If we ask in our own name, we cannot expect to speed, for, being strangers, we have no name in heaven; being sinners, we have an ill name there; but Christ's is a good name, well known in heaven, and very precious. (2.) It is to aim at his glory and to seek this as our highest end in all our prayers. 3. What success they should have in their prayers: "What you ask, that will I do," Joh 14:13. And again (Joh 14:14), "I will do it. You may be sure I will: not only it shall be done, I will see it done, or give orders for the doing of it, but I will do it;" for he has not only the interest of an intercessor, but the power of a sovereign prince, who sits at the right hand of God, the hand of action, and has the doing of all in the kingdom of God. By faith in his name we may have what we will for the asking. 4. For what reason their prayers should speed so well: That the Father may be glorified in the Son. That is, (1.) This they ought to aim at, and have their eye upon, in asking. In this all our desires and prayers should meet as in their centre; to this they must all be directed, that God in Christ may be honoured by our services, and in our salvation. Hallowed be thy name is an answered prayer, and is put first, because, if the heart be sincere in this, it does in a manner consecrate all the other petitions. (2.) This Christ will aim at in granting, and for the sake of this will do what they ask, that hereby the glory of the Father in the Son may be manifested. The wisdom, power, and goodness of God were magnified in the Redeemer when by a power derived from him, and exerted in his name and for his service, his apostles and ministers were enabled to do such great things, both in the proofs of their doctrine and in the successes of it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
14:12 Jesus promised that anyone who believes in him would perform great miracles and experience answers to their prayers (see 1 Jn 5:14). These things would become possible when Jesus went to the Father, because he would send the Holy Spirit to empower the works (John 14:16). • The greater works will not outdo Jesus’ work, but regular people empowered by the Spirit will be doing them. God promised that in the era of the Spirit, he would bring his Kingdom and power into the world in a way not seen before.
John 14:12
The Way, the Truth, and the Life
11Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me—or at least believe on account of the works themselves.12Truly, 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.13And I will do whatever you ask in My name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Baptism of the Holy Spirit - Part 1
By Kathryn Kuhlman32K43:51Holy Spirit BaptismGEN 41:38LUK 24:45JHN 14:12ACT 1:8ACT 2:4ACT 10:44In this sermon, Miss Coleman shares a powerful testimony of a father who had a revelation that Jesus is the true Messiah. The father struggled with the idea of admitting his previous beliefs were wrong to his oldest son, who had been taught to respect his father's word. Miss Coleman emphasizes the bondage that many people are in, whether it be spiritual darkness or being bound by organizations or sin. She also mentions the joy and freedom that comes from experiencing the Holy Spirit's work, particularly through holy laughter. Overall, the sermon highlights the importance of being open to the Holy Spirit's leading and breaking free from any bondage that hinders our relationship with God.
The Secret of Miracles Revealed in Jesus's Life
By Kathryn Kuhlman8.8K28:15MiraclesJHN 8:32JHN 14:12JHN 14:16JHN 14:26JHN 16:13ACT 1:8JAS 1:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the role of the Holy Trinity in our lives. God the Father is seated on His throne and is the giver of good and perfect gifts. Jesus, the Son, is at His right hand and through Him, we receive salvation and healing for our bodies. The Holy Spirit, who is present on earth, works in conjunction with the Father and the Son to do everything for us that Jesus would do if He were physically present. The speaker encourages listeners to focus on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, and to recognize that any faith we have is a gift from Him.
Radical Christianity Is Normal
By Francis Chan7.2K55:02MAT 7:21MAT 11:28JHN 3:16JHN 14:1JHN 14:12REV 3:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of genuine faith and surrender to God, highlighting the dangers of being lukewarm in one's faith and the need for a true transformation by the Holy Spirit. It challenges believers to examine their hearts, seek a deep relationship with God, and live out their faith authentically, not just relying on a reputation but on a genuine love for God.
In Tribute to Kathryn Kuhlman - Part 1
By Kathryn Kuhlman6.4K29:45TributeMAT 6:33JHN 14:12ACT 1:8ROM 8:111CO 15:532CO 12:9PHP 4:13In this sermon, Catherine Coogman reflects on her role as a preacher and the responsibility that comes with it. She describes the anticipation and fear she feels before stepping onto the stage to deliver her message. Coogman acknowledges the sacrifices made by the audience members who have traveled far to attend the service. She also discusses the limitations of the human body in handling the power of the Holy Spirit, but asserts her ability to endure long hours of preaching without fatigue. Despite medical predictions of her physical limitations, Coogman remains steadfast in her dedication to her work and compares it favorably to that of any man.
The Mantle of Elijah - Part 1
By David Wilkerson3.5K30:092KI 2:92CH 7:14ISA 6:8JHN 14:12ROM 12:21CO 10:11EPH 5:162TI 1:6JAS 4:41PE 5:8
This sermon focuses on the story of Elijah and Elisha from 2 Kings 2, highlighting the passing of the mantle from Elijah to Elisha and the desire for a double portion of God's Spirit for each succeeding generation. It emphasizes the need for greater faith, miracles, and anointing of the Holy Spirit in our lives today. The journey of Elijah and Elisha through Bethel and Jericho symbolizes the challenges and societal issues we face, urging us to discern the spiritual condition of our surroundings and seek revival.
The Major Ian Thomas Story-03 Biography
By Major Ian Thomas3.4K48:15BiographyMAT 6:33JHN 14:12ACT 1:12ACT 5:14ACT 5:201CO 12:271TI 1:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of obeying God's instructions and going where we are sent. He shares a story about a young crew member who hesitates to go out in a dangerous rescue mission, but is encouraged by an experienced sailor to prioritize saving lives over personal safety. The speaker relates this story to the marching orders given to believers by the Holy Spirit, urging them to use their abilities and resources to spread the gospel. He highlights the significance of preaching the message of eternal life through Jesus Christ and inviting others to come alive in their relationship with God.
Is God Listening to Your Prayers
By Francis Chan3.2K46:16MAT 7:21MAT 28:19JHN 3:16JHN 14:12JAS 1:22
This sermon by Francis Chan emphasizes the importance of having a genuine relationship with Christ, not just going through religious motions. He passionately urges the audience to seek a deep, intimate connection with God, to experience answered prayers, and to live a life that reflects the teachings of Jesus. Chan highlights the significance of true belief, the power of prayer, the impact of sin on our relationship with God, and the need for genuine faith and obedience.
Crucified to Live
By Paris Reidhead2.5K26:48Death To SelfMAT 9:2JHN 5:8JHN 9:1JHN 14:12ROM 12:1EPH 3:20In this sermon, the speaker uses the analogy of receiving a car to explain the concept of surrendering oneself to God. He emphasizes that just as receiving a car involves handing over the keys, title, and registration, surrendering to God requires giving up control of our bodies and plans. The speaker highlights that young people often have their own agendas and plans, which can hinder them from fully surrendering to God. He encourages the audience to present their bodies as a living sacrifice to God, acknowledging that they need their bodies to carry out His work. The sermon references Romans 12 and Ephesians 3 to support the idea of surrendering to God's agenda rather than our own.
(Basics) 36. Jesus Did God's Will
By Zac Poonen2.4K12:54MAT 23:11JHN 14:12ACT 2:1ROM 7:7ROM 8:3EPH 4:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the practicality of the Bible for Christian living. He highlights Romans 8:3-4, which states that the law could not make believers pure inside or help them overcome sin in their hearts. Instead, God sent His Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to offer Himself as a sacrifice for sin. The speaker then discusses how Jesus Christ is an example for believers in living a holy life, and how through the Holy Spirit, believers can do the works that Jesus did and fulfill the will of God.
From Simon to Peter #28 - the Holy Spirit and Peter's Will
By J. Glyn Owen2.4K36:18Simon to PeterMAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 9:33JHN 1:1JHN 14:12ACT 1:8ACT 3:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being witnesses to Jesus Christ in an irreligious world. He highlights the continuity between what Jesus did and what believers are called to do. The speaker mentions the compassion and power of Jesus that continues to work through believers. He shares the story of Peter and John encountering a beggar outside the temple and healing him in the name of Jesus. The beggar, who had been disabled from birth, is miraculously healed and begins to leap and praise God. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the impact of this miracle on the temple and the importance of continuing the work of Jesus in the world.
Doing the Works of Jesus and Greater Works
By John Piper2.0K44:04JHN 14:12JHN 20:21
This sermon delves into the profound teachings of John 14:12-14, exploring the promises Jesus made to believers. It emphasizes the continuation of Jesus' works through all believers, the concept of doing greater works through the power of the Holy Spirit post-resurrection, and the significance of praying in Jesus' name. The sermon highlights the filters of praying for Jesus' fame, worth, payment on the cross, and sovereign wisdom, ensuring alignment with God's will.
Through the Bible - John - Part 2
By Zac Poonen1.9K57:24JHN 6:2JHN 7:24JHN 10:28JHN 13:35JHN 14:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the value of women and the need to learn to value them as God does. The sermon focuses on the story of the disciples going fishing in John chapter 21 and the message behind this sign. The preacher highlights the importance of coming to a zero point, where the disciples had no fish despite their efforts, before Jesus appeared and filled their boat with fish. The sermon also discusses the concept of being balanced, going in and out of God's presence to serve Him in the world. The preacher warns against being a mother for Satan's lies and encourages believers to work while it is day, as the time will come when they will not be able to work. The sermon concludes with the reminder that eternal life is to know God and Jesus personally and to partake of His nature. The preacher emphasizes the importance of praying for God's children and exchanging our lives for His.
The Upper Room Discourse 'Troubled Heart'
By Conrad Mbewe1.9K44:34JHN 13:36JHN 14:12JHN 14:15JHN 14:27In this sermon, the speaker discusses the human tendency to assume that life will always move forward and progress. However, there are times when we experience setbacks and things don't go as planned. The disciples faced this when Jesus revealed that one of them would betray him and their hopes for a glorious future seemed to be shattered. Despite these challenges, Jesus encourages them to trust in God and reminds them that He is still in control. The speaker also warns against overconfidence and emphasizes the importance of staying committed to the Lord and not becoming lukewarm or indifferent.
Studies in the Gospel of John 04 - Indwelling of the Spirit
By Alden Gannett1.9K45:48Holy SpiritJHN 13:36JHN 14:5JHN 14:12JHN 14:21JHN 14:26In this sermon, the preacher focuses on two main conclusions. The first conclusion is about peace, specifically the peace that Jesus gives to his disciples. Jesus assures them that he is leaving them with his peace and encourages them not to be troubled or afraid. He also predicts that his departure and return will trouble their hearts, but assures them that it is necessary for them to believe. The second conclusion revolves around the Holy Spirit and the role of the Trinity in the believer's life. Jesus promises to send the Holy Spirit to his disciples, emphasizing the importance of reaching the world with the Gospel. He highlights the presence of the Trinity within believers, stating that those who love and obey Jesus will have the Father and the Son make their abode with them. The preacher concludes by urging the audience to make the most of their lives and contribute to their generation.
Crucified With Christ
By Jack Hyles1.6K48:03MAT 11:3JHN 14:12GAL 2:20PHP 2:5PHP 3:201JN 4:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living and behaving like Jesus. He shares a personal anecdote about helping a young boy tie his shoe in an alley, despite being told there was no time for such acts of kindness in the church. The preacher encourages the congregation to let go of greed, envy, ambition, and easily being hurt, and instead focus on God's business. He highlights the urgency of spreading the love of Jesus and living a life dedicated to others.
(Documentary) Revival Fire South Africa
By Erlo Stegen1.4K43:57PSA 34:3MRK 9:24JHN 14:12ACT 2:1ACT 19:18EPH 6:12
This sermon shares the journey of Pastor Erlo Stegen and the mission work at Kwasizabantu, highlighting the darkness of witchcraft, superstition, and tribal wars among the Zulu people. It explores the transformation brought by the Gospel, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, miraculous healings, and the establishment of a hospital without doctors. Testimonies of former witches, communists, and individuals touched by God's power are shared, emphasizing repentance, restitution, and the victory of Christ over darkness.
Doing the Work That Jesus Did (Hindi)
By Zac Poonen1.3K58:34JER 29:13MAT 8:9JHN 14:12ACT 2:17ROM 1:16JAS 3:8
This sermon emphasizes the importance of believers understanding and applying the principle of being under authority, particularly the authority of the Holy Spirit. It highlights the need for believers to seek God with all their hearts to experience the fullness of His promises, including having a tongue controlled by the Holy Spirit. The sermon challenges Christians to move beyond the basics of faith, like forgiveness of sins, and to press on to deeper levels of faith and obedience to God's authority.
Burning With the Holy Spirit Fire - Reinhard Bonnke
By From the Pulpit & Classic Sermons1.2K1:05:06EvangelismRadioHoly Spirit EmpowermentJOL 2:28MAT 3:11MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 19:10JHN 14:12ACT 1:8ROM 10:141CO 9:162TI 4:2Reinhard Bonnke passionately shares his journey of faith, emphasizing the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in evangelism. He recounts his early calling to preach in Africa and the struggles he faced, including a pivotal moment when he asked God for souls rather than money. Bonnke's fervent desire is to see souls saved, believing that the Holy Spirit's fire is essential for effective ministry. He encourages believers to embrace their calling and to actively share the gospel, asserting that the church is a lifeboat meant to rescue the lost. His vision is for nations to be transformed by the gospel, igniting a hunger for souls and a commitment to evangelism.
Doing Greater Works Than Christ
By Zac Poonen1.2K55:33JHN 14:12JHN 17:21ROM 12:41CO 12:12GAL 5:13EPH 3:10EPH 4:16PHP 2:31PE 4:10
This sermon emphasizes the importance of serving in the New Covenant out of love, becoming more Christ-like, and doing the will of God. It discusses the need to listen to God, deny our own will, and work together in unity despite differences. The speaker highlights the significance of each believer fulfilling their specific ministry and the wisdom of God displayed through unity amidst diversity.
In the Fellowship of the Saints (Dutch)
By Zac Poonen1.2K1:07:04MAT 22:37LUK 2:51JHN 14:12ACT 10:38HEB 4:15
This sermon emphasizes the significance of the two arms of the cross, the vertical representing Jesus reconciling man to God and the horizontal representing Jesus reconciling man to man. It delves into the importance of loving God with all our heart, denying ourselves, and loving our neighbors as ourselves. The message highlights the need for believers to die to self, prioritize God over worldly desires like money, and strive for unity and fellowship in the church as a greater work than miracles.
Doing a Greater Work Then Jesus Did (Hindi)
By Zac Poonen1.1K55:24MAT 1:21MAT 16:18LUK 9:23JHN 14:12ROM 8:29
This sermon emphasizes the importance of following Jesus in His life, not just His ministry, by doing good to others and delivering those oppressed by the devil. It highlights the need to be patient, grow spiritually, and focus on being saved from sin rather than earthly blessings. The message stresses the significance of building the body of Christ by uniting believers as one through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Revelation and Inspiration of Gods Word
By Peet Botha9851:11:36Word Of GodGEN 3:15ZEC 9:9JHN 12:14JHN 14:122TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of approaching the Bible without personal biases or preconceived notions. They encourage listeners to compare different passages of Scripture to gain a deeper understanding of God's message. The speaker highlights the trustworthiness of God and the consistency of His Word, stating that there are no contradictions in the Bible. They use the example of Jesus riding a donkey, explaining that apparent contradictions can be resolved by examining the context and other related passages. The sermon concludes with the speaker addressing the question of how to understand difficult portions of Scripture, offering guidelines for interpreting and studying the Bible effectively.
Spiritual Secrets of Smith Wigglesworth - Part 2 by George Storemont
By Smith Wigglesworth88553:25DEU 33:27PSA 119:11ISA 58:8MRK 11:22JHN 14:12ACT 2:4ROM 12:32TI 4:8HEB 12:2JAS 5:15
This sermon emphasizes the importance of faith, healing, and the power of God's Word. It shares stories of miraculous healings, the impact of faith in action, and the necessity of being men and women of the Book, rooted in the Word of God. The speaker highlights the intimate relationship with Jesus that Smith Wigglesworth had, leading to holy boldness and supernatural encounters.
Revival in South Africa Interview With Erlo Stegen
By Erlo Stegen86832:172CH 7:14MAT 9:35JHN 14:12HEB 13:8JAS 5:16
This sermon shares the powerful testimony of Domine Erlo Stegen's work in South Africa, where God's miraculous intervention led to a revival among the Zulu population. Despite initial challenges and lack of results, God revealed Himself in a profound way, convicting hearts of sin and transforming lives. The revival brought healing, spiritual renewal, and unity across racial divides, demonstrating the impact of the gospel in abolishing barriers and bringing peace. The sermon emphasizes the importance of revival, the conditions for experiencing it, and the ultimate solution for societal challenges lies in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
John 21:1-7
By Brother Yun8411:25:14MAT 21:22MRK 11:24JHN 10:10JHN 14:12EPH 3:20JAS 5:14
This sermon emphasizes the power of faith, prayer, and the miraculous healing touch of Jesus. It shares a powerful testimony of how God's presence and compassion can transform lives, even in the darkest of circumstances. The message highlights the importance of believing in God's power, obeying His word, and experiencing His abundant life.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And greater works than these - The miracles which I have wrought could not have been wrought but by the omnipotence of God; but that omnipotence can work greater. And those who believe on my name shall, through my almighty power, be enabled to work greater miracles than those which l have ordinarily wrought. An impostor might seduce the people by false miracles; but he could not make his power and cunning pass to all those who were seduced by him: but I will give you this proof of the divinity of my mission and the truth of my doctrine. Perhaps the greater works refer to the immense multitudes that were brought to God by the ministry of the apostles. By the apostles was the doctrine of Christ spread far and wide; while Christ confined his ministry chiefly to the precincts of Judea. It is certainly the greatest miracle of Divine grace to convert the obstinate, wicked heart of man from sin to holiness. This was done in numberless cases by the disciples, who were endued with power from on high, while proclaiming remission of sins through faith in his blood. Some account for the greater works thus: 1. The very shadow of Peter healed the diseased, Act 5:15. 2. Diseases were cured, and demons cast out, by applying to the persons handkerchiefs and aprons that had before touched the body of Paul, Act 19:12. 3. By the word of Peter, Ananias and Sapphira were struck dead, Act 5:5, Act 5:9, Act 5:10. 4. Elymas the sorcerer was struck blind by the word of Paul, Act 13:11. 5. Christ only preached in Judea, and in the language only of that country; but the apostles preached through the most of the then known world, and in all the languages of all countries. But let it be remarked that all this was done by the power of Christ; and I think it still more natural to attribute the greater works to the greater number of conversions made under the apostles' ministry. The reason which our Lord gives for this is worthy of deep attention: - Because I go unto my Father - Where I shall be an Intercessor for you, that: -
John Gill Bible Commentary
Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that believeth on me,.... Having mentioned his miracles as proofs of his deity, he assures his disciples, in order to comfort them under the loss of his bodily presence, that they should do the same, and greater works; for we are not to understand these words of everyone that believes in Christ, of every private believer in him, but only of the apostles, and each of them, that were true believers in him: to whom he says, the works that I do shall he do also; he shall raise the dead, heal all manner of diseases, and cast out devils; things which Christ gave his apostles power to do, when he first gave them a commission to preach the Gospel, and when he renewed and enlarged it: and which they did perform, not in their own name, and by their own power, but in the name, and by the power of Christ: and greater works than these shall he do; meaning, not greater in nature and kind, but more in number; for the apostles, in a long series of time, and course of years, went about preaching the Gospel, not in Judea only, but in all the world; "God also bearing them witness with signs and wonders, and divers miracles and gifts of the Holy Ghost", Heb 2:4, wherever they went: though perhaps by these greater works may be meant the many instances of conversion, which the apostles were instrumental in, and which were more in number than those which were under our Lord's personal ministry: besides, the conversion of a sinner is a greater work than any of the miracles of raising the dead, &c. for this includes in it all miracles: here we may see a sinner, dead in trespasses and sins, quickened; one born blind made to see; one who was deaf to the threatenings of the law, and to the charming voice of the Gospel, made to hear, so as to live; and one that had the spreading leprosy of sin all over him, cleansed from it by the blood of the Lamb yea, though a miracle in nature is an instance and proof of divine power, yet the conversion of a sinner, which is a miracle in grace, is not only an instance of the power of God, and of the greatness of it, but of the exceeding greatness of it: and the rather one may be induced to give in to this sense of the passage, since it is added, as a reason, because I go to my Father; and upon my ascension the Spirit will be given, to you, which shall not only enable you to perform miracles, as proofs of your apostleship, and the doctrine you preach, but which shall powerfully attend the Gospel to the conversion of multitudes of souls.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The disciples, as they were full of grief to think of parting with their Master, so they were full of care what would become of themselves when he was gone; while he was with them, he was a support to them, kept them in countenance, kept them in heart; but, if he leave them, they will be as sheep having no shepherd, an easy prey to those who seek to run them down. Now, to silence these fears, Christ here assures them that they should be clothed with powers sufficient to bear them out. As Christ has all power, they, in his name, should have great power, both in heaven and in earth. I. Great power on earth (Joh 14:12): He that believeth on me (as I know you do), the works that I do shall he do also. This does not weaken the argument Christ had taken from his works, to prove himself one with the Father (that others should do as great works), but rather strengthens it; for the miracles which the apostles wrought were wrought in his name, and by faith in him; and this magnifies his power more than any thing, that he not only wrought miracles himself, but gave power to others to do so too. 1. Two things he assures them of: - (1.) That they should be enabled to do such works as he had done, and that they should have a more ample power for the doing of them than they had had when he first sent them forth, Mat 10:8. Did Christ heal the sick, cleanse the leper, raise the dead? So should they. Did he convince and convert sinners, and draw multitudes to him? So should they. Though he should depart, the work should not cease, nor fall to the ground, but should be carried on as vigorously and successfully as ever; and it is still in the doing. (2.) That they should do greater works than these. [1.] In the kingdom of nature they should work greater miracles. No miracle is little, but some to our apprehension seem greater than others. Christ had healed with the hem of his garment, but Peter with his shadow (Act 5:15), Paul by the handkerchief that had touched him, Act 19:12. Christ wrought miracles for two or three years in one country, but his followers wrought miracles in his name for many ages in divers countries. You shall do greater works, if there be occasion, for the glory of God. The prayer of faith, if at any time it had been necessary, would have removed mountains. [2.] In the kingdom of grace. They should obtain greater victories by the gospel than had been obtained while Christ was upon earth. The truth is, the captivating of so great a part of the world to Christ, under such outward disadvantages, was the miracle of all. I think this refers especially to the gift of tongues; this was the immediate effect of the pouring out of the Spirit, which was a constant miracle upon the mind, in which words are framed, and which was made to serve so glorious an intention as that of spreading the gospel to all nations in their own language. This was a greater sign to them that believed not (Co1 14:22), and more powerful for their conviction, than any other miracle whatever. 2. The reason Christ gives for this is, Because I go unto my Father, (1.) "Because I go, it will be requisite that you should have such a power, lest the work suffer damage by my absence." (2.) "Because I go to the Father, I shall be in a capacity to furnish you with such a power, for I go to the Father, to send the Comforter, from whom you shall receive power," Act 1:8. The wonderful works which they did in Christ's name were part of the glories of his exalted state, when he ascended on high, Eph 4:8. II. Great power in heaven: "Whatsoever you shall ask, that will I do (Joh 14:13, Joh 14:14), as Israel, who was a prince with God. Therefore you shall do such mighty works, because you have such an interest in me, and I in my Father." Observe, 1. In what way they were to keep up communion with him, and derive power from him, when he was gone to the Father - by prayer. When dear friends are to be removed to a distance from each other, they provide for the settling of a correspondence; thus, when Christ was going to his Father, he tells his disciples how they might write to him upon every occasion, and send their epistles by a safe and ready way of conveyance, without danger of miscarrying, or lying by the way: "Let me hear from you by prayer, the prayer of faith, and you shall hear from me by the Spirit." This was the old way of intercourse with Heaven, ever since men began to call upon the name of the Lord; but Christ by his death has laid it more open, and it is still open to us. Here is, (1.) Humility prescribed: You shall ask. Though they had quitted all for Christ, they could demand nothing of him as a debt, but must be humble supplicants, beg or starve, beg or perish. (2.) Liberty allowed: "Ask any thing, any thing that is good and proper for you; any thing, provided you know what you ask, you may ask; you may ask for assistance in your work, for a mouth and wisdom, for preservation out of the hands of your enemies, for power to work miracles when there is occasion, for the success of the ministry in the conversion of souls; ask to be informed, directed, vindicated." Occasions vary, but they shall be welcome to the throne of grace upon every occasion. 2. In what name they were to present their petitions: Ask in my name. To ask in Christ's name is, (1.) To plead his merit and intercession, and to depend upon that plea. The Old Testament saints had an eye to this when they prayed for the Lord's sake (Dan 9:17), and for the sake of the anointed (Psa 84:9), but Christ's mediation is brought to a clearer light by the gospel, and so we are enabled more expressly to ask in his name. When Christ dictated the Lord's prayer, this was not inserted, because they did not then so fully understand this matter as they did afterwards, when the Spirit was poured out. If we ask in our own name, we cannot expect to speed, for, being strangers, we have no name in heaven; being sinners, we have an ill name there; but Christ's is a good name, well known in heaven, and very precious. (2.) It is to aim at his glory and to seek this as our highest end in all our prayers. 3. What success they should have in their prayers: "What you ask, that will I do," Joh 14:13. And again (Joh 14:14), "I will do it. You may be sure I will: not only it shall be done, I will see it done, or give orders for the doing of it, but I will do it;" for he has not only the interest of an intercessor, but the power of a sovereign prince, who sits at the right hand of God, the hand of action, and has the doing of all in the kingdom of God. By faith in his name we may have what we will for the asking. 4. For what reason their prayers should speed so well: That the Father may be glorified in the Son. That is, (1.) This they ought to aim at, and have their eye upon, in asking. In this all our desires and prayers should meet as in their centre; to this they must all be directed, that God in Christ may be honoured by our services, and in our salvation. Hallowed be thy name is an answered prayer, and is put first, because, if the heart be sincere in this, it does in a manner consecrate all the other petitions. (2.) This Christ will aim at in granting, and for the sake of this will do what they ask, that hereby the glory of the Father in the Son may be manifested. The wisdom, power, and goodness of God were magnified in the Redeemer when by a power derived from him, and exerted in his name and for his service, his apostles and ministers were enabled to do such great things, both in the proofs of their doctrine and in the successes of it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
14:12 Jesus promised that anyone who believes in him would perform great miracles and experience answers to their prayers (see 1 Jn 5:14). These things would become possible when Jesus went to the Father, because he would send the Holy Spirit to empower the works (John 14:16). • The greater works will not outdo Jesus’ work, but regular people empowered by the Spirit will be doing them. God promised that in the era of the Spirit, he would bring his Kingdom and power into the world in a way not seen before.