An exploration of the concepts in the first 5 verses of John 1, with particular attention to Jesus as the Word, plus some mention of themes in John.
(John 1:1-5)
Sermon Outline
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1)
Jesus the Divine and Preexistent Word (John 1:1-2)
- Jesus at the beginning: echoes of beginning of all things in Genesis 1:1-2 and the ancient wisdom of God in Proverbs 8:22
- Jesus as the divine Word the brings God’s wisdom and God’s logic into creation
- Jesus as the key to interpreting God’s guidance in the Torah
- Jesus as preexisting in unique relationship with God the Father and Himself divine
Jesus the Divine Word of Creation (John 1:3)
- Jesus as the word of power and only source of all that is created
- Jesus as the word of wisdom by which the Father creates
Jesus the Divine Life and Light Amid Darkness (John 1:4-5)
- Jesus as the source of life in terms of creation and in terms of salvation
- Jesus as the wisdom and teaching from which light arrives
- Jesus as an irrepressible light amid darkness
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
- When have you had to trust someone to a very high degree or when have you needed someone else to deeply trust in you?
- This week we begin a new sermon series “The Word,” which is the first part of an extended journey through the Gospel of John. This week we focus on John 1:1-5. Whether on your own or with others, begin your study in prayer, asking God to speak to you.
- Read some or all of the following Scripture passages. What does God’s ‘word’ do in each setting? (Psalm 33:6, Psalm 107:20, Psalm 119:105, Isaiah 55:10-11, Joel 1:1)
- Now read John 1:1-18, paying careful attention to the mentions of ‘the word’. What is different, new, or unique about God’s ‘word’ in John 1 in comparison with the passages mentioned in question 3?
- Read aloud Genesis 1:1-2 and John 1:1-3. The similarity of words is no mistake. John helps us see that with Jesus’ arrival a new beginning (the literal meaning of ‘Genesis’) is taking place. Based on what you read in John 1:1-18, what would you say this new beginning is about?
- John 1:1-5 powerfully expresses Jesus’ identity. Name some aspects of that identity seen here. What is one aspect or phrase from these verses that is particularly powerful for you?
- What is one thing you sense God is bringing to your attention through this week’s study? If you are with a small group, discuss that with one another and then pray about what you shared. If you are on your own, write it down, pray about it, and consider sharing your thoughts with someone this week.
DIG DEEPER
Exploring Faith:
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2 Corinthians 5:17 is a great summary of how new beginning happens in individual lives. Take some time to consider whether you have invited God to start something new in your life through Jesus Christ. If not, and you’re ready to, simply ask God to make you a new creation by praying that verse to Him. If you have, then talk with someone about what that has meant to you. If you’re not ready to make that commitment yet, ask God to help you get to that point.
Growing in Faith
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This first portion of John’s Gospel is extraordinarily powerful. Perhaps you could consider memorizing some or all of this section (John 1:1-18) just a few verses at a time.
Centered in Faith
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As we enter this Easter season, moving from Spring toward summer, it is a good time to consider who God might be inviting us to help grow in their faith. Pray about this. Consider inviting someone into a conversation, a small group, or summer Bible study.