Jesus is the Word. Read John 1:1-18 .The book of John opens with a two-part introduction. Today we focus on the first part, that opens with the famous line, “In the beginning was the Word.” This is an obvious reference to Genesis 1, when God created everything with his word. It also directs us to remember that Jesus is not just another person, He is part of the true God. Not just a person who knew God, He is God. Made flesh to dwell among us in the world that he created. The image is powerful, profound and hard for us to wrap our mind around. A person’s words are distinct from the person who speaks, yet they are also the embodiment of that person’s mind and will. John says that God’s Word was “with God,” that is, distinct, but also “the Word was God,” that is, divine. As we ponder this, we hear later that this divine Word became human as Jesus.
So why is this book different from the other 3 gospels? John, possibly the disciple John, offers a more theological, spiritual, and reflective view of Jesus. John is focusing on his divinity and purpose rather than just recounting events.
It is thought that book was written 90 to 100 years or so after the birth of Christ. His focus is on divinity and spiritual nature of Jesus was to an audience who probably did not have first person contact with Jesus. John’s Gospel provides a foundational understanding of who Jesus is, emphasizing His divinity, the significance of His miracles, and the profound teachings He shared with His disciples. This book offers a clear and accessible introduction to the core tenets of Christianity, making it an ideal starting point for new believers. This gospel brings hope for all with Jesus at its core.
How does Jesus bring you hope?
Reflecting back to Genesis 1, we read “1In the beginning when God created the heavens and the earth, 2the earth was a formless void and darkness covered the face of the deep, while a wind from God swept over the face of the waters 3Then God said, ‘Let there be light’; and there was light” John tells is that Jesus was with God during the creation and brings to us the grace of God.
In the Christmas season, how hard is it to think of the Baby Jesus as the one who created the universe?
John addresses this scripture to all who need to build their relationship with God from elders of the church to unbelievers. He reminds us that Jesus has existed from the beginning (and even before!). He reminds us that Jesus is the true light that cannot be overcome by any darkness. John challenges us to realize that Jesus is alive. He is waiting for us to open our eyes and heart, to accept the grace of God.
Are you ready?
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, the more we reflect on the truth of Your Word, the more amazed we become at Your love for us. We thank You that in the beginning was the Word, and the Word was made flesh and came to dwell among us as the unique and only begotten Son of God and our Redeemer. Thank You that He was born into the human race as a man – fully God yet fully man – so that by His death and Resurrection, He could become the singular substitute for the sin of the world. By Your grace and through our faith in Him, we are redeemed. To God and Jesus be all praise and glory, AMEN.