In the beginning was the Word, and
the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
John 1:1**
“The Word” – What kind of title is that to give somebody? It’s not so much a description as it is a means to describe. A lot of people might find that a little hard to understand.
Actually, the title denotes the Lord’s mission more than His person. Translated from the Greek word “Logos,” the idea that comes across is that of expression and communication. The Word makes known the thoughts in the mind of a speaker. As such, Jesus is the full Revelation of God as well as the Revealer of God.
Before time began, Christ was already the articulation of all that God is, being God Himself. By coming to earth, He became the embodiment of the divine message to Adam’s race. Just the fact that the Lord was there meant that God was making a statement. The symbols and ceremonies that had served for centuries were no longer needed. The Word became flesh, and people could finally experience God with all distance gone. Holiness, grace, and mercy passed from the realm of the theoretical and were played out for all to see on the little hill of Calvary.
Thou art the Everlasting Word,
The Father’s only Son,
God manifestly seen and heard,
And heav’n’s beloved One.
– Josiah Conder (1789-1855)
*This title was exclusively used by the apostle John
**See also John 1:14; 1 John 1:1, 5:7; Revelations 19:13
July 21
