A WORD STUDY & COMMENTARY
John 1:14 states:
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (ESV)
The primary Greek word in this verse is the word ἐσκήνωσεν (eskēnōsen), translated as “dwelt” in many English versions. This word carries deep theological significance, highlighting the incarnation of Jesus and His tangible presence among humanity.
Breakdown of the Key Word “ἐσκήνωσεν”
- Root and Form: The word ἐσκήνωσεν comes from the Greek verb σκηνόω (skēnoō), which means “to pitch a tent, to tabernacle, to dwell.” The form used in John 1:14 is the aorist active indicative, third person singular, indicating a completed action—Jesus took up residence among us at a specific moment in time.
- Meaning: The verb σκηνόω (skēnoō) literally means “to encamp” or “to live in a tent.” It was often used to describe temporary dwelling places, but in a theological sense, it points to God’s presence dwelling among His people.
- Old Testament Connection:
The use of σκηνόω in John 1:14 is rich with Old Testament imagery. It directly echoes the Tabernacle (Mishkan) in the wilderness, where God’s presence dwelled among the Israelites (Exodus 25:8-9). Just as God’s presence filled the Tabernacle, Jesus—the Word made flesh—became the new dwelling place of God among His people. - Context in John 1:14:
In this passage, ἐσκήνωσεν (eskēnōsen) expresses the reality of the Incarnation—God did not remain distant, but He came near, taking on human flesh and living among us. This is not merely a temporary visit but a profound, personal, and relational dwelling.
Theological Implications
- God’s Presence Made Manifest:
Just as the Shekinah glory filled the Tabernacle, Jesus reveals the very presence of God in human form. John affirms that “we have seen His glory”, alluding to the divine radiance of Christ. - The Temporary Becomes Permanent:
The Old Testament Tabernacle was a temporary structure, but in Jesus, God’s dwelling among His people is permanent and personal. Through Christ, believers experience ongoing communion with God. - The Humility of Christ:
The word σκηνόω suggests a temporary, humble dwelling rather than a palace or fortress. Jesus, though divine, chose to take on the limitations of human flesh and live among the people He came to save (Philippians 2:6-8).
Context and Application
John’s Gospel opens with the profound statement: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1). This establishes Christ’s divine nature. Then in John 1:14, we see the mystery of the Incarnation—this eternal, divine Word takes on flesh and enters human history.
Practical Implications for Believers
- God Desires Relationship:
Just as He dwelt among Israel in the wilderness, Jesus chooses to be near His people. The Christian life is built on a personal, abiding relationship with Christ (John 15:4). - God’s Presence is Transformative:
The Incarnation means that God is not distant or detached but involved in the daily lives of His people. The presence of Jesus brings hope, healing, and transformation to those who welcome Him. - Believers are Now God’s Dwelling Place:
Through Jesus’ work, God’s presence now dwells in His people by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). Just as the Tabernacle once housed God’s glory, every believer is now a living temple of His presence. - A Call to Imitate Christ’s Nearness:
As Jesus tabernacled among humanity, so too are believers called to live among and serve others, embodying Christ’s love and grace in a world that desperately needs Him.
Summary
The phrase “dwelt among us” in John 1:14, through the Greek word ἐσκήνωσεν (eskēnōsen), reveals the deep reality of the Incarnation—God taking on flesh to live among His people. It connects to the Old Testament Tabernacle, showing that Jesus is now the true dwelling place of God. This truth calls believers into a deeper relationship with Christ, recognizing His presence in their lives and reflecting that presence to the world.