07-29-2026 | 12NOON Bible Class | Bishop Charles H. Ellis, III

Main message: Jesus' promise that "greater works" will be done (John 14:12) means believers empowered by the Holy Spirit will expand the gospel worldwide and carry out Christ's mission, not that Christians will outdo Jesus' miracles or elevate themselves above Him.

Key points:

• The context of John 14:12: Jesus speaks in a sober, final charge to his disciples; the promise flows from Him returning to the Father so the Comforter (Holy Spirit) can come.
• "Greater works" primarily refers to the global spread of the gospel and making disciples (Matthew 28:19; Mark 16; Acts 1:8), enabled by Spirit-given power and faith—not a license to claim superiority over Jesus' miracles.
• The promise is to the apostles and to those who will believe through their witness; faith is the requisite quality for participating in these works.
• Practical Christian ministry must include both acts of service (feeding, helping, community outreach) and the proclamation of the gospel so people are saved—acts without gospel witness miss the divine assignment.
• Warnings: avoid sensationalism or trying to be "bigger than Jesus," and be cautious about importing earthly, limited images into doctrines about heaven or spiritual realities.

Scriptures mentioned: John 14:12, Matthew 28:19, Mark 16:15-16, Acts 1:8, (references to John 14 context)