New Testament
John 14:12
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"Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will do the works that I do, and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to my Father."
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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.
What John 14:12 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the power and potential of faith in Him. He assures His followers that those who believe in Him will not only perform the same miraculous works He did during His ministry but will also accomplish even greater things. This promise is rooted in the fact that Jesus is returning to the Father, which signifies the beginning of a new phase in the relationship between believers and God. The Holy Spirit will empower believers to continue Jesus' mission on earth. This verse encourages Christians to have confidence in their faith and the capabilities that come with it, as they are called to be active participants in God's work. It highlights the importance of belief and the transformative impact it can have on a person's life and the lives of others. The greater works mentioned can refer to the spread of the Gospel and the transformative power of the Church in the world, as believers are equipped to carry on Jesus' legacy.
How to apply John 14:12 to your life
As believers, we are called to step out in faith and trust that we can make a difference in the world. This verse encourages us to engage in acts of service, share the Gospel, and rely on the Holy Spirit's guidance to accomplish God's work through us.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jesus Comforts His Disciples (John 14:1–16:33)
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Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 14:12 mean?
John 14:12 means that Jesus is telling His followers that those who believe in Him will be able to perform the same miracles He did, and even greater ones, because He will be with the Father, sending the Holy Spirit to empower them.
What is the significance of 'greater works' in John 14:12?
The 'greater works' in John 14:12 refer to the ability of believers to spread the Gospel and impact more lives than Jesus did during His earthly ministry, as they are empowered by the Holy Spirit.
How does John 14:12 relate to faith?
John 14:12 highlights the connection between faith and action, showing that true belief in Jesus leads to the ability to perform significant works through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit.
How can I apply John 14:12 in my life?
You can apply John 14:12 by stepping out in faith, engaging in acts of service, sharing the Gospel, and trusting the Holy Spirit to guide you in making a positive difference in the world.
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