Jesus now speaks of those who believe in Him doing greater works than what He has done.
True believers will live like Jesus
The word “works” is not referring exclusively to miracles; the Greek word actually refers to “deeds” or “labors.” Although this would include miracles this is not the exclusive meaning. Jesus is saying that those who believe in Him will live and act the way He lived and acted. The word for “greater” does not mean “more miraculous” but refers to quantity and length. He is essentially saying that His short life on this earth that was focused exclusively in Judea will be expanded by the billions of followers who over several thousand years follow His example into all the earth as the “body of Christ.”
The power of the Spirit
Jesus says that this will be possible because He is leaving this earth to go to the Father. Jesus is setting the stage to talk about the Holy Spirit. He must go to the Father so that the Holy Spirit will be poured out on those who believe in Him. Jesus is indicating that the power to live as Jesus lived is not possible in the flesh; it is only possible in the power of the Holy Spirit.
The power of prayer
The ability to follow in Jesus’ steps will come only in answer to prayer. Jesus promises to do what we ask. If we pray in His name He will do it. “It is not what you know, it is who you know.” Jesus is going to the Father; as people who have a close relationship with Him, Jesus will get for us from the Father what we need. The Christian life will be lived in answer to prayer.
The glory of the Son
It is all set up this way so that Jesus receives all the glory. No man can boast in his works because all he has has been given to him by the Holy Spirit in answer to prayer. Only Jesus will receive the glory.
Application
Is the life you are living proof of your faith in Jesus? Are you doing what He did? Are you trusting in your own abilities or the power of the Holy Spirit? How much do you pray? Are you living for Jesus’ glory or your own?
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