Do Whatever He Tells You: Week 4 John 14:7-14

In the previous passages, we have already seen Peter and Thomas ask Jesus where He was going. Now Philip challenges Jesus by saying, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.” Jesus replies, “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father.” A theophany wasn’t necessary, because seeing Jesus was the same as seeing God. John 1:18 says, “No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father’s side, he has made him known.” In verses 10 and 11, Jesus basically reveals that we can trust Him because of His words and His works. Jesus goes even further in verse 12 when He says, “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.” In other words, believe in Jesus on account of His works, and let His works lead you to faith because whoever believes in Jesus will also do works that lead people to believe in Him. Our works are signposts to Jesus! What does greater works really mean? The disciples’ greater works are made possible because Jesus was going to the Father after His work on the cross, His resurrection, His ascension, and Pentecost. Because of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, Jesus’ works were no longer localized, but global until He returns! Jesus’ works had been in anticipation of salvation, but now we do greater works in the fulfillment of His great plan of redemption. He then says, “Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.” The Lord will not grant requests that contradict His own nature or oppose His plan. Instead, when we abide in Christ, our heart begins to align with His heart. We begin to desire what He desires, and we ask for things that bring Him glory and renown. He absolutely answers those requests! Why…because He is glorified and all eyes are on Him. So…stop being intimidated. Stop being afraid. The sooner you believe Him, the more you will see life-change and His Kingdom come. You have a work to do. You will do greater works than Him. He will be glorified in it! Oh, and start with praying the Word. He loves it when you do that!