John 1:1
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John 1:1 is a foundational Bible verse emphasizing the divinity and preexistence of Christ, central to Christian doctrine. The phrase "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" asserts Christ's eternal existence, co-equality with God, and active role in creation. Critical theological terms like Logos, incarnation, deity of Christ, Trinitarian theology, and the unity between God the Father and the Son anchor this verse for believers seeking insight into Jesus' divine nature and the biblical revelation of God's eternal plan of salvation.
Summary
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
John 1:1 stands as a theological cornerstone affirming the full deity and eternal sonship of Christ. The verse opens with 'In the beginning' (ἐν ἀρχῇ, en archē), intentionally echoing Genesis 1:1, demonstrating the Logos (ὁ Λόγος) was present before all creation. In Greek, 'the Word' (Logos) signifies not just spoken word or reason, but the ultimate expression of God’s self-revelation. Unlike created beings, the Logos 'was with God' (pros ton Theon, πρὸς τὸν Θεόν)—indicating relationship, not subordination. The climactic assertion, 'the Word was God' (Theos ēn ho Logos, Θεὸς ἦν ὁ Λόγος), is unprecedented clarity on Jesus’ divine nature. Early Christian theologians like Athanasius and Augustine rooted Trinitarian doctrine in this passage: one essence (οὐσία, ousia), three Persons (ὑπόστασις, hypostasis). Other passages—such as Colossians 1:15-17 ("by him all things were created") and Hebrews 1:1-3 ("the exact imprint of his nature")—confirm this Christology. Importantly, John later clarifies, 'the Word became flesh' (John 1:14), articulating the doctrine of the incarnation: truly God, truly man. The unity yet distinctness between the Father and the Son undergirds the mystery of the Trinity, providing the theological basis for doctrines like the atonement and justification—because only God could save sinners (Isaiah 43:11). Through this verse, the Christian worldview affirms the supremacy of Christ, his agency in creation, and his worthiness for worship.
In the chaos and uncertainty of modern life, John 1:1 offers an anchor: before anything else existed—before your successes or failures, your anxieties or joys—Christ, the eternal Word, was there. He was with God; he was God. This means the One who calls you beloved is not distant or detached but is the very source of life, love, and purpose. When doubts arise about your value or the meaning of your story, remember: your worth is grounded in a love that predates time itself. Jesus isn’t simply a wise teacher or prophet—he is the eternal Creator stepping into creation, seeking you. Today, pause and let this truth settle in: you are pursued and treasured by the One who spans eternity. Let that inspire awe, comfort, and a renewed trust that your life, no matter how complex, is held by the eternal Word made flesh. Respond in praise, surrender, and gratitude, for truly, 'the Word was God.'