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John 1 The Word Became Flesh

1 The Word Became Flesh
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

2 He was with God in the beginning.

3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.

4 In him was life, and that life was the light of men.

5 The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.

6 There came a man who was sent from God; his name was John.

7 He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all men might believe.

8 He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.

9 The true light that gives light to every man was coming into the world.

10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him.

11 He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.

12 Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—

13 children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.

14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

15 John testifies concerning him. He cries out, saying, “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’”

16 From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another.

17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.

18 No one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father’s side, has made him known.

19 John the Baptist Denies Being the Christ
Now this was John’s testimony when the Jews of Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to ask him who he was.

20 He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, “I am not the Christ.”

21 They asked him, “Then who are you? Are you Elijah?”
He said, “I am not.”
“Are you the Prophet?”
He answered, “No.”

22 Finally they said, “Who are you? Give us an answer to take back to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?”

23 John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, “I am the voice of one calling in the desert, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord.’”

24 Now some Pharisees who had been sent

25 questioned him, “Why then do you baptize if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?”

26 “I baptize with water,” John replied, “but among you stands one you do not know.

27 He is the one who comes after me, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.”

28 This all happened at Bethany on the other side of the Jordan, where John was baptizing.

29 Jesus the Lamb of God
The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!

30 This is the one I meant when I said, ‘A man who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’

31 I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Israel.”

32 Then John gave this testimony: “I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him.

33 I would not have known him, except that the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is he who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’

34 I have seen and I testify that this is the Son of God.”

35 Jesus’ First Disciples
The next day John was there again with two of his disciples.

36 When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, “Look, the Lamb of God!”

37 When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus.

38 Turning around, Jesus saw them following and asked, “What do you want?”
They said, “Rabbi” (which means Teacher), “where are you staying?”

39 “Come,” he replied, “and you will see.”
So they went and saw where he was staying, and spent that day with him. It was about the tenth hour.

40 Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus.

41 The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ).

42 And he brought him to Jesus.
Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter).

43 Jesus Calls Philip and Nathanael
The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, “Follow me.”

44 Philip, like Andrew and Peter, was from the town of Bethsaida.

45 Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.”

46 “Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” Nathanael asked.
“Come and see,” said Philip.

47 When Jesus saw Nathanael approaching, he said of him, “Here is a true Israelite, in whom there is nothing false.”

48 “How do you know me?” Nathanael asked.
Jesus answered, “I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you.”

49 Then Nathanael declared, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.”

50 Jesus said, “You believe because I told you I saw you under the fig tree. You shall see greater things than that.”

51 He then added, “I tell you the truth, you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”

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Analysis of John Chapter 1

The Gospel of John, one of the four canonical gospels, offers a unique perspective on the life, ministry, and divinity of Jesus Christ. Chapter 1 of John serves as a profound introduction, laying the theological foundation for the entire gospel. This chapter is rich with deep symbolism, theological insights, and revelatory declarations about the nature and mission of Jesus. In this analysis, we will explore John Chapter 1, verse by verse, to uncover its meanings and implications for both ancient and modern readers.

John 1:1-5 — The Word Became Flesh

The prologue of John’s Gospel (John 1:1-18) is often considered a poetic hymn that encapsulates the essence of the gospel. It opens with a profound declaration:

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

These opening verses intentionally echo the start of Genesis (“In the beginning…”), signaling that the coming of Jesus is a new creation. The term “Word” (Greek: Logos) is central to this passage and carries profound implications:

  • The Logos and Creation: The concept of the Logos was familiar to both Jewish and Greek audiences. For Jews, it connected to God’s creative word in Genesis; for Greeks, it resonated with philosophical ideas about the rational principle governing the universe. John claims that Jesus is the divine Logos, participating in creation itself.
  • Pre-existence and Divinity: By stating “the Word was with God, and the Word was God,” John asserts Jesus’ pre-existence and divinity, establishing Jesus as eternal and co-equal with God the Father.
  • Life and Light: The themes of life and light are introduced, portraying Jesus as the source of spiritual life and enlightenment for humanity.

This prologue challenges readers to see Jesus not merely as a historical figure but as the divine, pre-existent Word, integral to creation and salvation.

John 1:6-8 — The Witness of John the Baptist

“There was a man sent from God whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.”

These verses introduce John the Baptist, emphasizing his role as a witness to Jesus. John’s purpose was to prepare the way for Jesus and to bear witness to Him:

  • Divine Mission: John the Baptist is portrayed as “sent from God,” underscoring his divine commission and the importance of his testimony.
  • Witness to the Light: John acknowledges that he is not the light but a witness to it. This distinction is crucial, as it directs the focus away from John himself and toward Jesus, the true light.
  • Belief through Testimony: The goal of John’s witness is that “all might believe” in Jesus. The importance of testimony and belief is a recurring theme in John’s Gospel.

John the Baptist’s role sets the stage for the revelation of Jesus as the Messiah and the Light of the world, highlighting the power of testimony in leading others to faith.

John 1:9-13 — The True Light

“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.”

In these verses, John extends the theme of light introduced in verse 4, emphasizing the universality and significance of Jesus’ coming:

  • Universality: Jesus is described as the “true light that gives light to everyone,” highlighting His mission to bring enlightenment and salvation to all humanity.
  • Rejection and Recognition: Though Jesus, the creator, came into the world, He was not recognized by His own creation. This paradox underscores the spiritual blindness and resistance of the world to divine truth.
  • Reception and Transformation: Despite widespread rejection, those who do receive and believe in Jesus are given the right to become “children of God.” This new identity is not based on natural descent or human effort but is a divine birth, emphasizing the transformative power of faith in Christ.

These verses encapsulate the gospel message: Jesus, the divine light, offers enlightenment and a new identity as God’s children to all who receive and believe in Him.

John 1:14-18 — The Word Became Flesh

“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John testified concerning him. He cried out, saying, ‘This is the one I spoke about when I said, “He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.”’) Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.”

This pivotal passage of John Chapter 1 reveals the incarnation—the Word becoming flesh—and its implications:

  • Incarnation: “The Word became flesh” signifies the mystery of the incarnation: the eternal Word taking on human nature. This is a cornerstone of Christian belief, underscoring God’s willingness to enter into human history and experience.
  • Dwelling Among Us: The phrase “made his dwelling among us” (literally “tabernacled”) recalls the Old Testament tabernacle where God’s presence dwelt among His people, indicating that Jesus represents God’s presence among humanity.
  • Glory Revealed: The disciples’ witness of Jesus’ glory—glory as the unique Son of the Father—reveals His divine nature and mission.
  • Grace and Truth: Jesus is “full of grace and truth,” contrasting with the Law given through Moses. While the Law was a foundational guide, Jesus embodies and surpasses it with grace and truth, offering a fuller revelation of God’s character and will.
  • Revelation of God: Jesus, the one and only Son who is “in closest relationship with the Father,” makes God known. He bridges the gap between the invisible God and humanity, providing the ultimate revelation of God’s nature and will.

This passage highlights the significance of the incarnation, revealing Jesus as the tangible manifestation of God’s grace, truth, and glory.

John 1:19-28 — The Testimony of John the Baptist

“Now this was John’s testimony when the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to ask him who he was. He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, ‘I am not the Messiah.’ They asked him, ‘Then who are you? Are you Elijah?’ He said, ‘I am not.’ ‘Are you the Prophet?’ He answered, ‘No.’ Finally they said, ‘Who are you? Give us an answer to take back to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?’ John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, ‘I am the voice of one calling in the wilderness, “Make straight the way for the Lord.”’ Now the Pharisees who had been sent questioned him, ‘Why then do you baptize if you are not the Messiah, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?’ ‘I baptize with water,’ John replied, ‘but among you stands one you do not know. He is the one who comes after me, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.’ This all happened at Bethany on the other side of the Jordan, where John was baptizing.”

This section provides a detailed account of John the Baptist’s testimony, highlighting his identity and mission:

  • Self-Identification: John the Baptist clarifies that he is not the Messiah, Elijah, or the Prophet. His humility and clarity reflect his devotion to his calling and his recognition of Jesus’ greater significance.
  • Voice in the Wilderness: Quoting Isaiah 40:3, John identifies himself as the “voice of one calling in the wilderness,” tasked with preparing the way for the Lord. This prophecy emphasizes his role in paving the way for Jesus’ ministry.
  • Baptism with Water: John’s baptism with water is a symbolic act of repentance, distinct from the greater baptism that Jesus will bring. John acknowledges his unworthiness compared to Jesus, pointing to the divine nature of Jesus’ mission.

John the Baptist’s testimony underscores his role as a forerunner, directing attention toward Jesus and preparing the people for His advent.

John 1:29-34 — The Lamb of God

“The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is the one I meant when I said, “A man who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.” I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Israel.’ Then John gave this testimony: ‘I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him. And I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, “The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.” I have seen and I testify that this is God’s Chosen One.’”

In this passage, John the Baptist identifies Jesus as the “Lamb of God” and gives a powerful testimony of His divine identity:

  • Lamb of God: The title “Lamb of God” invokes sacrificial imagery from the Old Testament, particularly the Passover lamb and the suffering servant of Isaiah 53. Jesus is presented as the ultimate sacrifice who takes away the sin of the world.
  • Precedence of Jesus: John reiterates Jesus’ pre-existence and superiority, emphasizing that Jesus, though coming after John in chronological time, surpasses him because He existed before him.
  • Revelation through Baptism: The descent of the Spirit as a dove upon Jesus during His baptism is a divine confirmation of His identity as the Chosen One who will baptize with the Holy Spirit. This event marks the commencement of Jesus’ public ministry and His unique role in salvation history.

John’s declaration of Jesus as the Lamb of God and his testimony of the Spirit’s descent provide a clear revelation of Jesus’ mission and divine nature.

John 1:35-42 — The First Disciples

“The next day John was there again with two of his disciples. When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, ‘Look, the Lamb of God!’ When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus. Turning around, Jesus saw them following and asked, ‘What do you want?’ They said, ‘Rabbi’ (which means ‘Teacher’), ‘where are you staying?’ ‘Come,’ he replied, ‘and you will see.’ So they went and saw where he was staying, and they spent that day with him. It was about four in the afternoon. Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus. The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, ‘We have found the Messiah’ (that is, the Christ). And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, ‘You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas’ (which, when translated, is Peter).”

This section describes the initial calling of Jesus’ first disciples, emphasizing their immediate response and the personal transformation that follows:

  • Recognition of Jesus: John’s identification of Jesus prompts his disciples to follow Jesus, illustrating the power of testimony and the natural transition of genuine discipleship from John to Jesus.
  • Inquiry and Invitation: Jesus’ question, “What do you want?” and His invitation, “Come, and you will see,” highlight the personal and relational aspect of discipleship. Jesus invites them into a deeper understanding and relationship with Him.
  • Proclamation of the Messiah: Andrew’s immediate declaration to his brother Simon that they have found the Messiah reflects the transforming discovery of Jesus’ identity. This leads to Simon’s introduction to Jesus and his renaming as Cephas (Peter), signifying a new identity and mission.

This passage emphasizes the relational nature of discipleship, the transformative encounter with Jesus, and the importance of personal testimony in spreading the message of the Messiah.

John 1:43-51 — Jesus Calls Philip and Nathanael

“The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ Philip, like Andrew and Peter, was from the town of Bethsaida. Philip found Nathanael and told him, ‘We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.’ ‘Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?’ Nathanael asked. ‘Come and see,’ said Philip. When Jesus saw Nathanael approaching, he said of him, ‘Here truly is an Israelite in whom there is no deceit.’ ‘How do you know me?’ Nathanael asked. Jesus answered, ‘I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you.’ Then Nathanael declared, ‘Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the king of Israel.’ Jesus said, ‘You believe because I told you I saw you under the fig tree. You will see greater things than that.’ He then added, ‘Very truly I tell you, you will see “heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on” the Son of Man.’”

The calling of Philip and Nathanael further develops the theme of recognition and revelation of Jesus’ identity:

  • Direct Call: Jesus’ direct call to Philip, “Follow me,” is a powerful reminder of His initiative in calling His disciples. Philip’s immediate response and subsequent invitation to Nathanael illustrate the expanding circle of discipleship.
  • Scriptural Fulfillment: Philip’s declaration that they have found the one written about by Moses and the prophets underscores the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in Jesus.
  • Skepticism and Discovery: Nathanael’s initial skepticism (“Can anything good come from Nazareth?”) is met with Philip’s invitation to “come and see.” Nathanael’s encounter with Jesus, who reveals knowledge of him under the fig tree, leads to his confession of Jesus as the Son of God and King of Israel.
  • Heavenly Revelation: Jesus’ promise that Nathanael will see “heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man” alludes to Jacob’s dream in Genesis 28:12. It signifies Jesus as the connection between heaven and earth, the mediator of divine revelation and salvation.

This passage highlights the recognition of Jesus’ true identity, the significance of personal encounters with Him, and the promise of greater revelations to come.

Conclusion

John Chapter 1 is a profound theological introduction to the Gospel of John. It establishes the divine identity and mission of Jesus as the eternal Word who became flesh, the true light, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, and the one who reveals God’s glory. The chapter also introduces key themes such as testimony, belief, and the transformative power of encounters with Jesus.

Through the testimonies of John the Baptist and the first disciples, readers are invited to recognize and follow Jesus, experiencing the new life and identity He offers. The recurring invitations to “come and see” encapsulate the relational nature of discipleship and the ever-deepening journey of faith in the true light who enlightens everyone.