THE WORD BECAME FLESH

Introduction:

In the rich tapestry of religious texts, the Gospel of John stands as a profound testimony to the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. One of the most captivating passages within this gospel is found in John 1:1-14. This passage, often referred to as the "Prologue," presents a profound and poetic reflection on the nature and significance of the Word-made-flesh. Let us embark on an enlightening journey to understand the depth of meaning contained within these verses.

The Pre-existent Word

The passage opens with the powerful declaration, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." Here, the evangelist sets the stage, emphasizing the eternal existence and divine nature of the Word. The term "Word" represents Jesus Christ, the divine "Logos", who existed before all creation and coexisted with God the Father, fully partaking in the divine essence.

Creator and Sustainer

John further establishes the Word's role in creation, stating, "All things were made through Him, and without Him, nothing was made that was made." In these words, we comprehend that Jesus, as the preexistent Word, played an integral role in the formation and sustenance of the universe. His divine power extends beyond time and space, underscoring His sovereign authority.

The Light Shining in Darkness

The Prologue goes on to highlight the entrance of the divine Light into the world, stating, "In Him was life, and the life was the light of men." This light pierces the darkness of ignorance, sin, and separation from God. It illuminates the path to redemption, truth, and eternal life, offering hope and salvation to all humanity.

The Word Incarnate

The narrative reaches its pinnacle with the proclamation, "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us." This profound statement encapsulates the central message of Christianity—God taking on human form in Jesus Christ. The incarnation reveals God's radical love and desire to bridge the gap between humanity and the divine. Jesus, the Word made flesh, assumed our mortal nature, dwelling among us to reveal God's grace and truth.

The Glory of the Son

John underscores the unique relationship between the Father and the Son, describing Jesus as the "only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth." Through Jesus Christ, humanity witnesses the fullness of God's glory. His life, teachings, miracles, and sacrificial death reflect the divine attributes of grace, mercy, and truth, revealing the depths of God's love for humanity.

Receiving the Word

The Prologue concludes by affirming that "to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God." Here, the evangelist highlights the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ. By receiving and believing in Him, individuals enter into a new relationship with God, being adopted as His children and experiencing the fullness of His love and salvation.

Conclusion:

John 1:1-14 provides a profound theological reflection on the nature and significance of Jesus Christ as the Word made flesh. In this passage, we encounter the eternal preexistence of the Word, His creative power, and His role as the divine Light shining in the darkness. The incarnation of the Word reveals God's radical love and grace, offering humanity the opportunity to become children of God through faith. As we reflect on these verses, may we embrace the transformative power of the Word made flesh and find hope, salvation, and eternal life in Him.

May God bless this short and concise explanation of the Word.

By: John U. Ordillo