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The heart of "Ask in His Name" is founded on the words of Jesus himself in the Gospel of John. In John 14:12-15, Jesus lays before us a profound promise and an invitation intertwined with divine expectation. As we look into this promise, we recognize the power inherent in the name of Jesus and the relationship between asking and obeying. He declares, "Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father. 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. If you love me, you will keep my commandments."
These verses are set in the Upper Room, amidst a deeply intimate conversation between Jesus and his disciples. This was a critical juncture—Jesus was preparing them for His imminent departure through crucifixion and resurrection. The disciples were troubled and anxious about the future. Jesus, perceiving their unrest, offered words of comfort and assurance. It is within this context of transition and preparation that Jesus spoke of a new way of existing with God through His name.
There are two significant Greek words to explore in John 14:13. The word translated as "ask" is "αἰτέω" (aiteo), which implies a sense of asking with an expectation of receiving—more than a mere request, it is an appeal, expectant and earnest. This is a dynamic, faith-filled solicitude, one moving the hand of the divine.
The phrase "in my name" is linked to "ὄνομα" (onoma), preferred in Greek for "name." In a Hebraic sense, the “name” signifies character and authority. Thus, to ask in Jesus' name is not a mere formulaic incantation, but a direct alignment with the fullness of His nature, His will, and His divine authority.
The lyrics echo the essence of Jesus’ promise. They emphasize the spiritual truth that belief in Jesus empowers us to do His works and, indeed, greater works because of His return to the Father. The connection with the Father is crucial. It is the Father’s will to be glorified in the Son.
### Greater Works
"Whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these..." This provocative statement reveals the nature of God’s Kingdom—one of increase and multiplication. Jesus, through His resurrection and ascension, enables His followers to operate under the new covenant, marked by the global expansion of the gospel and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
### Asking in His Name
"You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it." This declaration links the authority of Christ with the believer’s commission to intercede. True prayer is not an exercise in human will but aligning with Christ’s heart and petitioning according to His character and name.
### The Condition of Love and Obedience
"If you love me, keep my commands—ask in my name, and I will do it." The repetition of this phrase highlights the condition of effective prayer—a heart committed to obedience. The act of asking must be coupled with the disciples' lifestyle of love demonstrated through obedience.
### The Glory of the Father
"So that the Father may be glorified in the Son." All requests must bring glory to God. This transcends personal desires, focusing instead on the manifestation of God’s Kingdom.
### First, We Must Believe
To operate in the capacity of "greater works," we must root ourselves in belief. This trust is not abstract but anchored in the historical and living Christ. Our faith becomes the conduit for the works of God on earth.
### Second, We Must Align with His Nature
Asking "in His name" necessitates growing familiarity with His character through His Word and Spirit. Knowing His will provides precision in prayer and aligns our petitions with His purposes.
### Third, We Must Obey His Commands
Echo the sentiment found in John 15:10 - "If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love." The alignment of our conduct with His commands authenticates our love and primes our hearts for answered prayer.
### Fourth, We Must Seek His Glory
Our prayers must ultimately seek the exaltation of God. This focus purges selfish motives and brings assurance that our petitions align with the divine agenda.
Proclamation:
"In the name of Jesus, I declare that I will do the works of Christ, and even greater works, as He has promised. I will ask in the name of Jesus, and I will receive, for the glory of the Father through the Son. I am committed to love and obedience, walking in alignment with His divine will. Amen."
Prayer:
"Father, thank you for the gift of prayer in the power of Jesus' name. Help us as believers to understand the weight and privilege of asking in your name. Let our hearts be driven by love and obey your commands daily. May every request glorify you, O Lord. Empower us by your Spirit to do the works of Christ, expanding your Kingdom on earth. In the name of Jesus, Amen."
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