A Study Of John 14:12-19
A study of John 14:12-19 reveals the disciples will do greater works than Jesus, the coming of another Helper, and spiritual transformation through the indwelling Spirit.
A study of John 14:12-19 reveals the disciples will do greater works than Jesus.
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. (ESV, John 14:12)
Jesus surprised his disciples with the news of his impending crucifixion on a cross, resurrection, and ascension to the father in heaven. But then encouraged them by saying they will do greater works. What does he mean? A natural impulse is to wonder if they will demonstrate greater miraculous, divine power. Or speak God’s truth with greater eloquence. Hard to imagine since Jesus spoke words directly from the father and they had no such divine connection.
However, the Greek word for “greater” is mĕgas, which means exceedingly, great, large and in a very wide application. Jesus conducted his earthly ministry primarily in the Roman provinces of Galilee, Samaria, and Judea. And we are reminded what he told the disciples during the time after his resurrection, but before his ascension.
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth. (ESV, Acts 1:8)
In other words, the disciples will accomplish greater Kingdom expansion geographically and numerically as the Gosepel spreads globally to all people. And the reason why is because Jesus is going to the father.
The formula for prayer
“And I will do whatever you ask in My name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” “If you ask Me for anything in My name, I will do it.”
The spiritual engine that drives greater things is prayer. Specifically, praying in Jesus name. Does this mean tagging on the words “in Jesus’ name” at the end of a prayer like a spiritual stamp to invoke divine action? No. But it begins in heart of the person praying. And earnestly praying for God’s purpose and for his glory. Submitting to his will rather than seeking personal benefit.
A study of John 14:12-19 reveals the coming of another Helper.
If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper to be with you forever. (ESV, John 14:15-16)
After describing what it means to love him, Jesus introduces the third person of the trinity–the Holy Spirit. The greek term for “Helper” is Paraklētos, which means Advocate, Helper, Counselor, and Comforter. The Greek word for “another” is allon and is further clarifying because it means another of the same kind. It suggests that Jesus has served as the disciples’ advocate during his earthly ministry and the Helper will fulfill the same role.
Paraklētos is only used five times in the New Testament. Four times are in John’s gospel and the fifth in 1 John 2:1 that names Jesus Christ as our Advocate with the Father. The other Greek word most commonly used for Holy Spirit is pneuma, which means spirit, breath, and wind, depending on the context. The difference between the two is that pneuma identifies his person and paraklētos, his office or ministry. John uses Paraklētos in his gospel to highlight the Spirit’s personal ministry after Christ’s departure. And the rest of the New Testament uses Pneuma as the word that identifies him.
A study of John 14:12-19 reveals spiritual transformation through the indwelling Spirit.
Even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you. (ESV, John 14:17)
Something new and different is about to happen. God will become more than a supreme being we worship. When the Holy Spirit comes he will spiritually transform every believer into a new creation by actually dwelling within us. His arrival occurs on the Day of Pentecost and is recorded in Acts 2:1-4. Therefore, every believer is now filled with the Spirit after confessing Jesus as Savior and Lord. And the Apostle Paul confirms it.
“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore glorify God with your body.” (ESV, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
Jesus assures the disciples they will know the Holy Spirit when he comes because they know him. But the world cannot see or know him because it doesn’t know Jesus. The Greek word for “world” is kosmos and commonly refers to unbelievers. As our new advocate the Holy Spirit continues the ministry of Jesus in our lives. Among other things, he comforts and teaches, convicts of sin, and guides us into truth.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is a Christian author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview. This blog is originally published here.
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