Understanding Jesus as the Living Word: Insights from John 1
The opening chapter of John’s Gospel presents one of the most profound introductions to Jesus in all of Scripture. It connects the Old and New Testaments while revealing deep truths about who Jesus is and why He came.
What Does “The Word” Mean in John 1?
John begins by introducing Jesus as “the Word” (Logos in Greek). While Greek philosophers viewed the Logos as an impersonal force maintaining universal harmony, John reveals that the Logos is actually personal – Jesus himself. This Word was with God from the beginning and was God, actively involved in creation.
How Does Jesus Connect to the Old Testament?
The opening verses deliberately echo Genesis 1, taking readers back to creation. Just as God spoke the world into existence, Jesus as the Word was present and active in creation. This connection shows Jesus’ divine nature and eternal existence.
The Tabernacle Connection
John 1:14 states that “the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” The phrase “made his dwelling” literally means “tabernacled.” This references the Old Testament tabernacle where God’s presence dwelt among His people. Jesus becomes the new meeting place between God and humanity.
Why Did Jesus Come in Human Form?
Jesus came to fulfill all the Old Testament promises and covenants in an unexpected way. Rather than arriving as a military leader, He came:
Full of grace and truth
To serve others
To reach the broken and outcast
To demonstrate God’s love personally
To inaugurate God’s kingdom
What Does This Mean for Us Today?
Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, and the sending of the Holy Spirit, believers become living temples where heaven and earth connect. We are adopted into God’s royal family and become part of His rescue mission to bring others from darkness to light.
Life Application
This week, consider these questions:
Am I fully engaged in God’s story or just living “story adjacent”?
How can I view my circumstances through the lens of Jesus?
What keeps me from spending time in God’s Word?
Challenge: Commit to reading 2-3 chapters of John this week, asking God to help you see Jesus more clearly through His Word. Remember that Jesus endured the cross with you personally in mind – you were the joy set before Him.
Remember: The enemy will try to keep you from engaging with Scripture, but pressing through leads to discovering the adventure of walking with Jesus daily. He wants you fully involved in His story of redemption.
This series may be taken as a course offered by the Online Bible Institute. For more information check out the Keys Vineyard Ministries Courses page.
Steve Lawes is a Church Consultant and also provides coaching for pastors, churches, ministries and church planters.
