Living

Living

John 14:12-15, NLT

I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father. 13You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father. 14Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it! 15If you love me, obey my commandments.

Setting the Scene

Jesus gave this promise about doing “the same works” and “even greater works” to the disciples, probably referring to the task of spreading the gospel (see John 15:7-8). The “greater works” would have two parts: a greater number of converts and a greater scope for the conversions.

Asking in Jesus’ name means praying in agreement with Jesus’ person and purpose, according to God’s character and will. God will not grant requests contrary to his nature or desires, and we cannot use his name as a magic formula to fulfill our selfish desires. As John reminds us, whenever “we ask for anything that pleases him . . . he will give us what we ask for” (1 John 5:14-15, NLT).

In addition to evangelism and prayer, Jesus reminded the disciples to obey his commandments. When the disciples had Jesus with them, they could watch him and listen to him carefully. If they had questions, they could ask Jesus. During those three years, their understanding of Jesus was expanding and deepening. Eventually, they would carry the responsibility of taking his message to “all the nations” (Matthew 28:19, NLT). Jesus was preparing the disciples for life without his physical presence. They would have to pray (“ask”), live (“obey”), and tell (“greater works”).

Getting Personal

How has a deeper acquaintance with Jesus’ life and teaching changed the way you pray?

When do you find obeying Christ most difficult?

What can you do to be a more effective witness for Christ?

Three words summarize the Christian life: pray, live, and tell. Pray implies relationship, communication, and worship. We live in vital union with Christ and honestly share our dreams and desires. Live means doing what God wants us to do. This involves studying his Word to discover his commands and principles for living; then we obey. Tell means sharing with others the Good News about Jesus—what he did at the Cross and how he has changed our lives. Like the disciples, with the power of the Holy Spirit working through us, we can change the world.

Talking to God

Thank the Lord for the freedom you have to approach him in prayer. Praise him for revealing himself so thoroughly through his Son and through his Word. Pray for the power of his Spirit to live for him and share the truth.