The Gospels present three distinct contexts in which Jesus addressed his disciples with the profound words, “The disciple is not superior to the teacher, nor the slave to his master. It is sufficient for the disciple to attain the level of the teacher and emulate his master.”
Matthew recounts these words of Jesus in his instruction to the apostles, (10.24-25), while Luke remembers them in the “Sermon on the Plain” (6.40). John, in turn, recounts these words at the commencement of the Last Supper, following Jesus’ act of washing the feet of his disciples: “Truly, truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, no apostle is greater than the one who sent him.” (13.16).
All three accounts are solemn, with John emphasizing the significance of these words through the formulaic introduction of “Truly, truly I tell you.” It is crucial to consider this context, as it underscores a fundamental trait in Jesus’ teaching, destined to serve as an indispensable guide for his disciples and followers. As disciples, servants, and apostles, we are not meant to surpass our Teacher and Lord. Our identity is rooted in our unwavering faithfulness to our Lord, our aspiration to emulate him, and nothing more.
Modern psychological studies reveal a profound connection between human nature, encompassing both the soul and the body, and its ability to respond to injustice. Countering evil is primarily rooted in the innate instinct of our human nature with its capability of discernment. Only secondarily do moral and ethical principles play a role in elevating the powers of our nature.
We must keep this important finding in mind to comprehend the significance of aligning ourselves with the new identity we receive in the Church—the Body of Christ. By doing so, we can generate our deeds against injustice and evil from the unadulterated and holy character of this new nature.
Narrating the Last Supper of the Lord, John also recalls Jesus’ words: “Truly, truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will perform the same works as I do myself, and will even perform greater works, because I am going to the Father.” (14.12)
These solemn words of Jesus may seem contradictory to the opening words of this meditation. However, when we enter the mind of the Lord’s Holy Spirit—as recipients of that Spirit and owners of that new nature—we fully comprehend the true meaning of Jesus’ words.
We enter the mind of the Holy Spirit through faith in Jesus, stepping through those mighty and eternal gates into divine power. These gates, the lintel and both doorposts of which have been touched with the blood of our Lord’s cross, enjoy the favor of the Heavenly Father, who keeps a vigilant watch over his Church and brings to fruition the Body of his Only Son with creative power.
Every time he upholds the commandment of love, the Christian emerges as the steward of God’s graces. In this love—its new nature—he will be able to perform the same works as his Lord did and even perform greater works, for it is impossible for the word of God to be disregarded (John 10.35).
