In the Gospel of John 1:1 it states, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
For a long time I did not make the connection that the “Word” was Jesus Christ even though verse 14 tells me so.
“And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14)
It was only after a particular Bible study did I put it all together. It’s also when I noticed that the ‘w’ in word is capitalized. This indicates to me that the writer is not speaking of a word in the literal sense, but of Jesus Christ – God’s Word made into flesh.
Another significant verse is found in John 1:5: “And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.”
Jesus Christ is the light this verse speaks of, but those who were in darkness (meaning they were lost because they did not know Christ) could not or would not accept Him. This verse is significant because the same thing is still going on today.
There are many lost souls who have no true knowledge or understanding of Jesus Christ. Sadly, they want to keep it that way. But Jesus said, “He that is not with me is against me;…” (Matthew 12:30)
So, if a person is not abiding by the commandments of Jesus Christ, they are against Him. They are living in sin. And living in sin is the same as being lost – both of which the word “darkness” in John 1:5 refers to.
Jesus said, “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (John 3:3)
This is a most significant statement because it is telling us what must happen in order for us to abide with God forever.
To be born again means that you must surrender yourself to Jesus Christ. You must repent of your sins (feel sorry) and be willing to change for the better. Repentance is a change of heart and mind that will bring you closer to God. You must accept Jesus Christ as your Savior, and be willing to leave your old self behind. Hence the term “born again”.
If you put all your trust and faith in Jesus Christ, He can begin the renewing process within you. This involves a daily cleansing of your soul, and it is something you cannot achieve on your own.
But Philippians 4:13 assures us -“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
And although you will still encounter trials and tribulations in the world, you will also be able to claim the promise of Jesus when He said, “… in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
This means if you are in Jesus, He is in you so you too will overcome any trial and/or tribulation.
You will also begin to have a different mind-set, a change of heart that will compel you to turn away from the sinful habits that once held you captive.
And “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” (John 8:36)
Surrender, believe and stand on the promises of Jesus!
Freefrombondage 