Divine Origins: Exploring Jesus' Identity in John 1:1

Apr 2

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."

John 1:1

Introduction: In the Beginning was the Word

The Gospel of John opens with a profound declaration about the nature of Jesus Christ, who is identified as the Word that existed from the very beginning. Today's verse, John 1:1, invites us to contemplate the divine mystery of Jesus, the eternal Word made flesh.

Historical Background: The Prologue of John's Gospel

The Gospel of John, written around AD 90-100, is distinct from the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) in both its theological depth and its literary style. While the Synoptics focus on Jesus' teachings and miracles, John's Gospel delves into the divine nature of Jesus and explores His intimate relationship with the Father.

John's prologue (John 1:1-18) is a poetic and profound introduction to the Gospel, setting the stage for the themes that will permeate the rest of the book. It presents Jesus as the eternal Word (Greek: Logos) who was with God and is God, emphasizing His divine nature and preexistence. The prologue also introduces the concepts of light and life, which are intricately connected to Jesus' identity and mission throughout the Gospel.

In the Hellenistic culture in which John was written, the term "Logos" held significant philosophical weight. Greek philosophers such as Heraclitus and Philo of Alexandria used the term to describe the cosmic principle or divine reason that underlies and governs the universe. By using the term "Logos," John is connecting Jesus to this deep philosophical concept, asserting that Jesus is not only the embodiment of divine wisdom but is also the very source of creation and the sustainer of all things.

John 1:1 is foundational in establishing the divine nature of Jesus from the very beginning of the Gospel: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." This verse echoes the opening of the book of Genesis, drawing a parallel between the creation of the world and the advent of Jesus, the Word made flesh. It emphasizes Jesus' eternal existence and His intimate relationship with the Father, laying the groundwork for the rest of John's Gospel.

The prologue of John is essential in understanding the themes that run throughout the Gospel, such as the incarnation, Jesus as the light of the world, His role as the giver of eternal life, and His unique relationship with the Father. John 1:1 sets the stage for the entirety of John's narrative, inviting readers to explore the depth of Jesus' divine nature and His transformative impact on those who believe in Him.

The Meaning of John 1:1

The Eternal Word

This verse emphasizes the eternal nature of Jesus, the Word. It declares that He existed from the very beginning, before the creation of the world. As the eternal Word, Jesus is the embodiment of God's wisdom, power, and creative force.

The Word and God

John 1:1 also highlights the intimate relationship between Jesus, the Word, and God the Father. The Word is described as being both "with God" and as being God Himself. This paradoxical statement reveals the divine mystery of the Trinity, in which the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are distinct yet one.

The Divine Nature of Jesus

By identifying Jesus as the eternal Word, John 1:1 underscores the divine nature of Jesus, who is fully God and fully human. This truth is central to the Christian faith, as it is through the incarnation of Jesus that we are able to know and experience the love and grace of God.

Application: Living Out John 1:1

To apply this passage, begin by contemplating the divine mystery of Jesus, the eternal Word made flesh. Reflect on the profound truth that Jesus is both fully God and fully human, and seek to deepen your understanding of this essential aspect of the Christian faith.

As you grow in your relationship with Jesus, the Word, allow His divine nature to transform your life. Embrace the wisdom, power, and creative force that He embodies, and seek to live in the light of His presence.

Finally, share the message of John 1:1 with others, inviting them to discover the divine mystery of Jesus, the Word made flesh. As you do so, remember that the Word is not just an abstract concept, but a living and active presence in the world, revealing the love and grace of God.

Prayer of the Day

Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of the divine mystery of Jesus, the eternal Word made flesh. We thank You for revealing Yourself to us through Your Son and for inviting us into a relationship with Him.

Help us to grow in our understanding of Jesus' divine nature and to live in the light of His presence. May our lives be transformed by the wisdom, power, and creative force of the Word, and may we share this life-changing message with those around us. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Nathan | Editor | Bible Lyfe

A graduate of Asbury Seminary, Nathan co-founded Christ Community Church with a fervent mission to serve the poor while making disciples of all nations. In 2017, he started Bridgetown Ventures, a ministry that empowers the marginalized to be architects of change in their own communities. In his transformative book, Storm the Gates, Nathan invites readers to embody the core values essential to fulfilling the Great Commission, serving as a clarion call for compassion, faith, and global discipleship.