#BoldBeliefDevotional by Paul Natekin
Key Bible Verse:
“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.” — John 14:12 (ESV)
Ever felt puzzled by Jesus’ promise in John 14:12? It sounds like He’s saying we can outdo His miracles! But is that really what He meant? Let’s dive into this together and see how Jesus’ words can encourage us today.
Apologetic Insight:
(from Greek ἀπολογία, ‘speaking in defense’) Defending and explaining faith with reason and evidence.
It’s easy to misinterpret Jesus’ statement about “greater works.” As Norman Geisler points out, “The ‘greater works’ that Jesus speaks of are not necessarily more miraculous but more extensive in reach and impact.” Jesus, during His earthly ministry, focused on a small region, but He promised that His followers would spread His message and works worldwide. William Lane Craig adds, “The spread of the Gospel to the ends of the earth through the power of the Holy Spirit is the greater work Jesus referred to.”
This perspective aligns with the broader scope of God’s plan through His church. As John Lennox explains, “The quantitative expansion of the Gospel’s influence through believers is what Jesus meant by ‘greater works.'” It’s not about outdoing Jesus’ miracles but about being His hands and feet across the globe, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
John 14:12 highlights that these greater works are possible because Jesus is going to the Father, sending the Holy Spirit to empower His followers. It’s a reminder that our strength and ability come from Christ alone, echoing His words in John 15:5, “Apart from me you can do nothing.”
Encouragement & Application:
Feeling overwhelmed by the idea of doing “greater works”? Remember, it’s not about your power but Christ’s power working through you. Embrace the opportunity to impact others for Christ, whether through acts of kindness, sharing your faith, or supporting missions. Lean on Him, ask for His guidance, and trust that He will use you in ways that contribute to His greater plan.
Reflection Questions:
- How can you see the “greater works” of Jesus being fulfilled through the global spread of the Gospel today?
- What steps can you take to be a part of these greater works in your community or beyond?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for the promise of doing greater works through You. Help us to understand that it’s not about our strength but Yours working in us. Guide us to be Your hands and feet in our world, spreading Your love and truth. Empower us by Your Holy Spirit, and let our lives reflect Your glory. In Your name, we pray, Amen.
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