John 14:12-17
If you love Me, you will keep My commandments. – John 14:15
In today’s passage, during the first half of His parting address to the disciples after the Last Supper, Jesus exhorted them to continue His work—even to do greater works than He had done. He also gave them a remarkable promise: “Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do.” (v.13) Then, He repeated it in v.14, reinforcing its significance.
Would you be surprised by this promise? Was it meant only for the disciples in the upper room, or does it also apply to us today? How do we determine if a biblical promise is for all believers in every age?
A Christian author once observed, Christians often isolate Bible verses from context, claiming them as personal promises. While comforting, this misuses Scripture. When claiming God’s promises, it is helpful to keep these principles in mind:
1. God’s promises are often conditional. Look for the word “if” in the context.
2. God gives promises to align us with His will, not to bend Him to ours. A promise does not compel God to act according to our desires but helps us trust Him more. 3. We cannot presume to know precisely when, where, or how God’s promises will be fulfilled. His timing and ways are beyond our understanding.
In vv.13-14, there is no explicit “if” statement, but the word “that” is key: “that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” This suggests that Jesus answers prayers that align with God’s purposes.
V.12 provides further context: “Whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do.” This promise is connected to continuing Jesus’ mission. When we engage in the work He did—proclaiming the gospel and making disciples—we can confidently ask for His help, knowing He will provide what we need.
So, what is the work of Jesus? His work was to do the Father’s will: “For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in Him should have eternal life.” (John 6:40a)
When we obey His command to continue this work—helping others come to faith in Christ and carrying on His mission—we can be assured that He hears us. As we seek guidance, resources, and strength to serve Him, He will provide and accomplish His purposes through us.
Reflections:
Dear brothers and sisters, what have you been praying for lately? When was the last time you lifted up the ministries of our church in prayer? Have you been asking God to help you share Christ with others in your daily life, wherever He has placed you? Are you actively involved in ministries like outreach, evangelism, social concern, and missions—reaching out to the last, the lost, and the least?
May we all take part in completing the unfinished task of bringing more people to Him. It pleases God when His people do what the Son did and ask in His name.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word and the promises You have given us. Help us to do your work, seek Your will above our own, and pray in alignment with Your purposes. Give us the faith to continue the work of Jesus, sharing Your love and truth with the world. Strengthen us, guide us, and provide all we need to glorify You in our daily lives. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
In today’s passage, during the first half of His parting address to the disciples after the Last Supper, Jesus exhorted them to continue His work—even to do greater works than He had done. He also gave them a remarkable promise: “Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do.” (v.13) Then, He repeated it in v.14, reinforcing its significance.
Would you be surprised by this promise? Was it meant only for the disciples in the upper room, or does it also apply to us today? How do we determine if a biblical promise is for all believers in every age?
A Christian author once observed, Christians often isolate Bible verses from context, claiming them as personal promises. While comforting, this misuses Scripture. When claiming God’s promises, it is helpful to keep these principles in mind:
1. God’s promises are often conditional. Look for the word “if” in the context.
2. God gives promises to align us with His will, not to bend Him to ours. A promise does not compel God to act according to our desires but helps us trust Him more. 3. We cannot presume to know precisely when, where, or how God’s promises will be fulfilled. His timing and ways are beyond our understanding.
In vv.13-14, there is no explicit “if” statement, but the word “that” is key: “that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” This suggests that Jesus answers prayers that align with God’s purposes.
V.12 provides further context: “Whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do.” This promise is connected to continuing Jesus’ mission. When we engage in the work He did—proclaiming the gospel and making disciples—we can confidently ask for His help, knowing He will provide what we need.
So, what is the work of Jesus? His work was to do the Father’s will: “For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in Him should have eternal life.” (John 6:40a)
When we obey His command to continue this work—helping others come to faith in Christ and carrying on His mission—we can be assured that He hears us. As we seek guidance, resources, and strength to serve Him, He will provide and accomplish His purposes through us.
Reflections:
Dear brothers and sisters, what have you been praying for lately? When was the last time you lifted up the ministries of our church in prayer? Have you been asking God to help you share Christ with others in your daily life, wherever He has placed you? Are you actively involved in ministries like outreach, evangelism, social concern, and missions—reaching out to the last, the lost, and the least?
May we all take part in completing the unfinished task of bringing more people to Him. It pleases God when His people do what the Son did and ask in His name.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word and the promises You have given us. Help us to do your work, seek Your will above our own, and pray in alignment with Your purposes. Give us the faith to continue the work of Jesus, sharing Your love and truth with the world. Strengthen us, guide us, and provide all we need to glorify You in our daily lives. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.