Greater Works Shall You Do

John 14:12 — “Greater Works Than These Shall He Do”

Jesus said:

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.” — John 14:12 KJV

Jesus was preparing His disciples for what would happen after His departure. His return to the Father did not mean that His work on earth would cease. Rather, His ministry would continue through those who believe in Him, empowered by the Holy Ghost.

The words “greater works” should be understood in connection with Christ's statement, “because I go unto my Father.” His going to the Father would be followed by the sending of the Holy Ghost (John 14:16–17; 16:7). After Pentecost, the gospel moved beyond the immediate earthly ministry of Jesus and began spreading through His disciples to nations and multitudes.

Acts gives us a powerful example. Peter preached Christ, and about three thousand souls were added in one day (Acts 2:41). The apostles preached, healed the sick, cast out unclean spirits, and carried the testimony of Jesus into new territories.

Therefore, “greater” does not mean that the believer becomes greater than Jesus Christ. The servant is never above his Lord. Rather, the exalted Christ continues His work through His people by the power of the Holy Ghost, extending the reach of the gospel throughout the world.

Key Truth

Jesus went to the Father, but His works did not stop. The ministry of Christ continued through Spirit-empowered believers.