The gospels begin by revealing important information about Jesus’s identity (Matthew 1:1; Mark 1:1; Luke 3:23-37). John may provide the most powerful introduction of Jesus found anywhere in the Bible.
Instead of introducing Jesus with genealogy, His virgin birth, or His baptism, John chooses to introduce Him by taking us back to the beginning. John wants us to understand that Jesus was there in the beginning.
Jesus was the word (John 1:1)
- Words express, communicate, and verbalize ideas. We use them to give instructions and explain things.
- Jesus came into the world to communicate or explain the Father. He told people the truth about the love and grace of God (John 1:14; 14:6).
- Jesus is the source of truth. While on earth, He was the full embodiment of truth. Unfortunately, most failed to accept the truth (John 1:11).
- Accepting Jesus as the truth leads to real freedom (John 8:32). It gives us something rock solid and strong in life. No matter what happens, the truth Jesus has revealed will endure.
Jesus was God (John 1:1)
- Jesus is part of the Godhead. Like the Father and Holy Spirit, Jesus is also eternal (John 8:57-59; Exodus 3:14). He is omnipresent. He is omniscient. He created all things (Genesis 1:1-2, 26; Colossians 1:15-17).
- Jesus is worthy of worship (Matthew 14:33).
- Jesus is worthy of trust (Proverbs 3:5-8).
- Jesus is worthy of awe (Psalm 33:8).
Jesus was the light of men (John 1:4-9)
- Darkness has many negative connotations attached to it. It is hard to navigate through in the dark. Evil also usually lurks in the dark.
- Jesus is the opposite of darkness (John 3:19-20; 8:12; 9:5; 12:35-36, 46). He provides spiritual direction (John 14:6). His life and teachings expose the sin and wickedness of men.
- What are we going to do with the light? Will we walk in it? Will we shine it (Matthew 5:14-16)? Jesus certainly commands us too!
Conclusion:
Do you need to begin your walk in the light of Jesus?
