Jesus: The Eternal Word and Source of Life
Summary
In today's message, we explored the profound truths found in the opening chapter of the Gospel of John, focusing on the identity and significance of Jesus as the Word. John begins his gospel with a powerful declaration: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." This statement establishes Jesus not only as a historical figure but as the divine Logos, the eternal Word through whom all things were created. This echoes the creation narrative in Genesis, where God spoke the world into existence. The Word, Jesus, was present at the beginning, and through Him, all things came into being.
We delved into the concept of the Word being life itself. John emphasizes that in Jesus was life, and this life was the light of all humanity. This life is not merely biological existence but a rich, abundant, and eternal life that begins now and extends into eternity. Jesus offers us a life that transcends time and decay, a life that is deeply satisfying and fulfilling, even amidst the challenges and uncertainties of our world.
Furthermore, we explored the connection between the Word and the Spirit, the breath of God. The Hebrew word "ruach," meaning spirit, wind, or breath, illustrates how God's Spirit was present at creation, bringing life and order out of chaos. This same Spirit is available to us today, breathing life into our beings and empowering us to live in intimate relationship with our Creator.
As we approach Easter, we are reminded that Jesus, the Word made flesh, came to dwell among us, offering us the light that shines in the darkness. His life, death, and resurrection provide the ultimate demonstration of God's love and the promise of eternal life. Today, we are invited to open our hearts to receive this life-giving Spirit, allowing the Word to create something new and beautiful within us.
Key Takeaways:
1. Jesus as the Eternal Word: Jesus is not just a historical figure but the divine Word through whom all things were created. He was with God in the beginning, and He is God. This foundational truth invites us to see Jesus as the source of all life and existence. [27:20]
2. The Word as Life Itself: In Jesus is life, and this life is the light of all humanity. This life is not just about existence but a rich, abundant, and eternal life that begins now. It is a life that transcends time and decay, offering us a deeply satisfying and fulfilling existence. [33:42]
3. The Breath of God: The Spirit, or "ruach," is the breath of God that brings life and order out of chaos. This same Spirit is available to us today, breathing life into our beings and empowering us to live in intimate relationship with our Creator. [37:28]
4. Eternal and Abundant Life: Jesus offers us eternal life, which is not just about the afterlife but begins today. It is an immortal life that is greater than time and decay, a life that is deeply satisfying and fulfilling, even amidst the challenges of our world. [41:44]
5. The Light in the Darkness: Jesus, the Word made flesh, is the light that shines in the darkness. His life, death, and resurrection provide the ultimate demonstration of God's love and the promise of eternal life. We are invited to open our hearts to receive this life-giving Spirit, allowing the Word to create something new within us. [45:02]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:30] - Introduction to the Series
- [02:00] - The Gospel of John: Good News
- [04:15] - The Word in the Beginning
- [06:45] - Creation and the Word
- [10:00] - The Breath of God: Ruach
- [13:30] - Life in the Word
- [16:00] - Eternal and Abundant Life
- [19:00] - Jesus as the Light
- [22:00] - The Word Made Flesh
- [25:00] - Invitation to Receive Life
- [28:00] - Closing Prayer and Reflection
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. John 1:1-5
2. Genesis 1:1-3
3. Psalm 33:6
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Observation Questions:
1. According to John 1:1-5, how is Jesus described in relation to God and creation? What does this imply about His nature and role? [27:20]
2. In Genesis 1:1-3, how does God bring creation into existence? What role does the Word play in this process according to the sermon? [30:15]
3. Psalm 33:6 mentions the Lord speaking and the heavens being created. How does this verse connect with the concept of the Word and the Spirit as discussed in the sermon? [30:15]
4. What does the sermon suggest about the relationship between the Word and the Spirit, particularly in the context of creation and life? [33:42]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does understanding Jesus as the eternal Word change the way one views His role in the world and in personal life? [27:20]
2. The sermon describes the life Jesus offers as abundant and eternal. How might this understanding of life differ from common perceptions of life and existence? [37:28]
3. The concept of "ruach" or the breath of God is central to the sermon. How does this idea of God's breath influence one's understanding of the Holy Spirit's role in their life? [33:42]
4. The sermon emphasizes Jesus as the light in the darkness. What does this metaphor suggest about the challenges and uncertainties faced in life? [45:02]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on the idea of Jesus as the source of all life and existence. How does this perspective influence your daily decisions and priorities? [27:20]
2. The sermon speaks of an abundant life that begins now. What steps can you take to experience this rich and satisfying life in your current circumstances? [37:28]
3. Consider the role of the Holy Spirit as the breath of God in your life. How can you become more aware of and responsive to the Spirit's presence and guidance? [33:42]
4. Jesus is described as the light that shines in the darkness. Identify a specific area of your life where you need His light to bring clarity and hope. How can you invite Him into that space? [45:02]
5. The sermon invites us to open our hearts to receive the life-giving Spirit. What practical steps can you take to cultivate a more open and receptive heart to God's work in your life? [48:59]
6. Reflect on the idea of eternal life as an intimate relationship with God that starts today. How can you deepen this relationship in your daily routine? [37:28]
7. The sermon concludes with an invitation to allow the Word to create something new within us. What is one area of your life where you desire transformation, and how can you partner with God in this process? [48:59]
Devotional
Day 1: Jesus as the Divine Logos
In the opening chapter of the Gospel of John, Jesus is introduced as the Word, or Logos, who was with God in the beginning and through whom all things were created. This profound truth invites us to see Jesus not merely as a historical figure but as the divine source of all life and existence. The concept of the Logos connects Jesus to the creation narrative in Genesis, where God spoke the world into being. As the eternal Word, Jesus embodies the creative power and divine wisdom of God, offering us a deeper understanding of His nature and purpose. Recognizing Jesus as the Logos challenges us to align our lives with His divine order and purpose, acknowledging Him as the foundation of all that is. [27:20]
"In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters." (Genesis 1:1-2, ESV)
Reflection: How does recognizing Jesus as the divine Logos influence the way you perceive your own existence and purpose in the world today?
Day 2: The Abundant Life in Christ
John emphasizes that in Jesus is life, and this life is the light of all humanity. This life is not just about biological existence but a rich, abundant, and eternal life that begins now and extends into eternity. Jesus offers us a life that transcends time and decay, providing a deeply satisfying and fulfilling existence even amidst the challenges and uncertainties of our world. This abundant life is characterized by a profound sense of peace, joy, and purpose that comes from living in relationship with Jesus. As we embrace this life, we are invited to experience the fullness of God's love and grace, allowing it to transform every aspect of our being. [33:42]
"For with you is the fountain of life; in your light do we see light." (Psalm 36:9, ESV)
Reflection: What steps can you take today to embrace the abundant life that Jesus offers, and how might this change your perspective on the challenges you face?
Day 3: The Breath of God
The Hebrew word "ruach," meaning spirit, wind, or breath, illustrates how God's Spirit was present at creation, bringing life and order out of chaos. This same Spirit is available to us today, breathing life into our beings and empowering us to live in intimate relationship with our Creator. The Spirit of God is not only a source of life but also a guide and comforter, leading us into deeper understanding and communion with God. As we open ourselves to the work of the Spirit, we are invited to experience the transformative power of God's presence in our lives, bringing renewal and hope in the midst of chaos. [37:28]
"The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life." (Job 33:4, ESV)
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need the breath of God's Spirit to bring renewal and order out of chaos today?
Day 4: Eternal Life Begins Now
Jesus offers us eternal life, which is not just about the afterlife but begins today. This life is an immortal existence that transcends time and decay, offering a deeply satisfying and fulfilling experience even amidst the challenges of our world. Eternal life in Christ is characterized by a relationship with God that transforms our present reality, infusing it with hope, purpose, and joy. As we embrace this eternal perspective, we are invited to live with a sense of anticipation and gratitude, knowing that our lives are part of a greater story that extends beyond the limitations of this world. [41:44]
"And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent." (John 17:3, ESV)
Reflection: How can you begin to live with an eternal perspective today, and what impact might this have on your daily decisions and interactions?
Day 5: The Light in the Darkness
Jesus, the Word made flesh, is the light that shines in the darkness. His life, death, and resurrection provide the ultimate demonstration of God's love and the promise of eternal life. As we approach Easter, we are reminded of the hope and redemption that Jesus offers, inviting us to open our hearts to receive His life-giving Spirit. The light of Christ dispels the darkness in our lives, bringing clarity, direction, and purpose. As we allow the Word to create something new and beautiful within us, we are empowered to reflect His light to the world around us, becoming beacons of hope and love in a world that desperately needs it. [45:02]
"The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone." (Isaiah 9:2, ESV)
Reflection: In what ways can you allow the light of Christ to shine through you today, bringing hope and love to those around you?
Quotes
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Now, right from the very start, the first few words, John wants to make it absolutely, abundantly, unmistakably clear that Jesus is God. Jesus is God. The Word, he says, he names in the Word, capital W, that's a name of somebody. The Word was God." [00:26:14] (36 seconds)
"And the Word, John says, the Word was there. The Word was with God. And more than that, John says, The Word was God. And that word was is actually really important. It literally means was. He just was. The Word didn't become. The Word wasn't made. There was never a time where the Word wasn't. But the Word was always with God. The Word was always God." [00:27:37] (43 seconds)
"God said, let there be light. And there was light. God said, let there be separation of the waters. God said, let there be sky and ground. And God said, let there be plants. And God said, let there be lights in the sky. And God said, let there be animals in the waters and on the land and in the sky. And God said, let us make humankind in our image." [00:29:23] (30 seconds)
"Where there are words spoken, there is always breath. You can put your hand up to your mouth and speak right now and you would feel the breath on your hand. So when God speaks the word at the beginning, that everything is created and brought into existence through, where is God's breath?" [00:31:52] (30 seconds)
"One of the very first Hebrew words that they teach you when you're studying theology is the word ruach. And the word ruach can be translated to mean a few different words in English. And in this verse, we translated it as spirit of God. But in many other places in the Old Testament, it was equally translated as wind or air or even breath." [00:32:50] (27 seconds)
"Or what about the prophet Ezekiel? The prophet Ezekiel is shown this incredible vision of this huge valley full of skeletons and dry bones and God says to him, prophesy to these bones and say to them, dry bones, hear the word of the Lord. This is what the sovereign Lord says to these bones. I will make ruach enter you and you will come to life." [00:34:49] (25 seconds)
"In him was life. And we can now see that John doesn't just mean that the word was alive, although that is absolutely true. And he doesn't just mean that the word gave life, although that is also absolutely true, but that the word was life itself. The breath of God, the spirit of God, at one with the word. Life in its very original, unblemished, perfect, beautiful, purest form." [00:35:28] (44 seconds)
"Eternal life. This word eternal. Sometimes as Christians we can kind of get this idea that eternal means one day when I die. Eternal life. After I die. The life that the afterlife that I will experience in heaven one day. But to Jesus and to Nicodemus and to the people around and the people reading this for the first time in the early centuries, eternal life meant more than just that. Eternal life started today." [00:38:03] (36 seconds)
"Jesus, John records in chapter 17, Jesus is praying to the Father and he says, this is eternal life. This is eternal life that they might know you, the only God and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. The kind of life that Jesus, the word, gives us is an eternal knowing of God." [00:38:58] (26 seconds)
"John records in chapter 10 of his gospel that Jesus said these words, I have come that they may have life and have it to the full. Other translations say abundant life or a rich and satisfying life. And once again, Jesus isn't just talking about a one day when I die and go to heaven kind of life will be satisfying one day. He's saying that the satisfying life can start for us today, right now." [00:39:56] (35 seconds)
"The light shines in the darkness and the darkness can never extinguish it. The result of the true, pure life straight from the source is light. John records in chapter 8 of his book, Jesus saying that I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. Or in other translations say the light that leads to life." [00:44:10] (34 seconds)
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