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SUBJECT: John 14:12 “Greater works than these
shall I do”
QUESTIONS: What does this phrase mean? Who has done
greater works than Jesus?
ANSWER:
First the verse:
John 14:12
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.
The following commentary best answers your question about
John 14:12
John 14:12
Greater works than these shall he
do - Interpreters have been at a loss in what way to
understand this. The most probable meaning of the passage is
the following: The word "greater" cannot refer to the
miracles themselves, for the works of the apostles did not
exceed those of Jesus in power. No higher exertion of power
was put forth, or could be, than raising the dead. But,
though not greater in themselves considered, yet they were
greater in their effects. They made a deeper impression on
mankind. They were attended with more extensive results.
They were the means of the conversion of more sinners. The
works of Jesus were confined to Judea. They were seen by
few. The works of the apostles were witnessed by many
nations, and the effect of their miracles and preaching was
that thousands from among the Jews and Gentiles were
converted to the Christian faith. The word "greater" here is
used, therefore, not to denote the absolute exertion of
power, but the effect which the miracles would have on
mankind. The word "works" here probably denotes not merely
miracles, but all things that the apostles did that made an
impression on mankind, including their travels, their
labors, their doctrine, etc.
~from Barnes' Notes
Note: Jesus is
not talking about miracles or specific works, but about
impact on the world. Even with miracles, the ministry of
Jesus Christ was 3.5 years as a human. He knew that His
ministry would be followed by many, many years of the Work
and thousands of ministers and local churches.
Here is another commentary:
John 14:11-12
Greater works - Not to be
restricted to the signs such as Jesus wrought in the days of
his flesh. The works could not be greater in quality than
his, but greater in extent.
~from The Wycliffe Bible Commentary |