A WORD STUDY & COMMENTARY
John 1:1-3
INSIGHT AND UNDERSTANDING
John 1:1-3 in the New Testament is a profound passage that lays the foundation for the theological understanding of Jesus Christ as the Word (Logos) of God. Here’s a commentary and word study:
John 1:1 (NIV): “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
Insight: This verse introduces the concept of the Word (the Logos) as eternal, existing before creation. It highlights the pre-existence and divine nature of the Word. The Word is not only with God but (he) also is God, affirming both the identity and the deity of Jesus Christ (see John 1:14).
This sets the stage for understanding Jesus as the embodiment of God’s presence and present communication (or specific revelation) to humanity.
Word Study:
– “In the beginning”: This phrase echoes the opening words of Genesis, emphasizing the timeless existence of the Word.
– “Word” (Logos in Greek): In Greek philosophy, Logos referred to the divine reason or wisdom that governed the universe. In Jewish thought, it could denote God’s self-expression or creative power. Here, it is used to describe Jesus Christ as the divine expression of God.
– “With God”: Indicates a distinct personal relationship between the Word and God the Father within the Godhead, suggesting both unity and distinction.
– “Was God”: Affirms the deity of the Word, stating that the Word shares the same essence or nature as God the Father.
John 1:2 (NIV): “He was with God in the beginning.”
Insight: This verse reinforces the eternal existence of the Word alongside God. It emphasizes the continuity of the Word’s presence with God from the very outset, underlining the Word’s active role in creation.
Word Study:
– “He”: Refers to the Word, emphasizing the personhood of the Logos.
– “With God”: Reiterates the intimate relationship between the Word and God, stressing companionship and proximity.
John 1:3 (NIV): “Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.”
Insight: This verse declares the creative agency of the Word in the act of creation. It asserts that all things came into being through the Word, highlighting his role as the divine agent of creation. This aligns with the Genesis narrative where God speaks creation into existence, suggesting the Word as the spoken expression of God’s creative power.
Word Study:
– “Through him”: Emphasizes the instrumental role of the Word in creation, indicating that the Word was the means by which all things were brought into existence.
– “All things were made”: Affirms the comprehensive scope of the Word’s creative activity, indicating that nothing exists apart from his creative action.
– “Without him”: Indicates the indispensability of the Word in the creative process, asserting that apart from him, nothing came into being.
Overall, John 1:1-3 presents a rich theological understanding of Jesus Christ as the eternal Word of God, who shares in the divine nature, exists in an intimate relationship with God the Father, and serves as the creative agent through whom all things were made. It lays the groundwork for the Gospel’s proclamation of Jesus as the incarnate Word, who brings light and life to humanity.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION
The practical applications of John 1:1-3 are profound and far-reaching, touching various aspects of Christian belief and practice. Here are some practical applications:
1. Understanding the Nature of Jesus: John 1:1-3 provides a foundational understanding of Jesus Christ as both fully divine and intimately connected with God the Father. In essence, this passage teaches that Jesus is King of the universe (over all things). This revelation calls believers to deepen their understanding of Jesus’ identity, acknowledging him not just as a great teacher or prophet but as the eternal Word of God. Practically, this calls for a deeper personal relationship with Jesus, worshiping him as Lord and Savior.
2. Trust in God’s Creative Power: Reflecting on the truth that all things were created through Jesus Christ encourages believers to trust in God’s power and sovereignty over creation. This can bring comfort in times of uncertainty or difficulty, knowing that the same Word who created the universe is actively involved in sustaining and redeeming it.
3. Embrace the Word of God: Since Jesus is identified as the Word of God, believers are encouraged to immerse themselves in Scripture, recognizing it as the inspired revelation of God’s will and character. This involves not only reading and studying the Bible but also applying its teachings to daily life. Practically, this means seeking guidance, wisdom, and strength from God’s Word in all circumstances.
4. Live in Alignment with God’s Purposes: Understanding that Jesus is the creative agent of all things prompts believers to align their lives with God’s purposes for creation. This includes stewardship of the environment, care for others, and participation in God’s redemptive work in the world. Practically, this might involve engaging in acts of justice, mercy, and compassion, reflecting the character of Christ in all areas of life.
5. Share the Gospel: Just as John the Evangelist wrote to proclaim the identity of Jesus Christ, believers are called to share the good news of Jesus with others. Knowing that Jesus is the eternal Word who brings light and life compels Christians to share this message of hope with those who are lost or in darkness. Practically, this involves living out the Gospel message in word and deed, sharing one’s faith with others, and inviting them into a relationship with Jesus Christ.
In summary, John 1:1-3 provides a rich theological framework for understanding Jesus Christ and calls believers to deeper intimacy with him, trust in God’s power, engagement with Scripture, alignment with God’s purposes, and sharing the Gospel with others.
These practical applications empower Christians to live out their faith in meaningful ways and participate in God’s ongoing work of creation and redemption.
If Jesus is king of the universe — then he has the right to be king of our lives!