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A Recap from Sunday's Sermon

Preaching Text: John 1:1-18

The Gospel of John boldly begins by telling readers two amazing things: first, that God’s divine life is found in Christ, and second, that he has made that life available to us by believing.  However, as Nicodemus shows us when he visits Jesus in chapter 3, it is possible to misunderstand Jesus’ purpose in coming.   

Christ came so that by believing we might have life in his name.

The first chapter of John follows the basic arc of biblical theology: Creation, Fall & Redemption.  Verses 1-4 describe how Jesus is the eternal “Word” of God through whom all things were created.  Humanity’s fall from grace is then implied in verse 5, where darkness is trying to overcome the light but cannot.  This darkness is further seen in verses 10 & 11 where the world (all people) was made through Christ but didn’t recognize him and his own people (Jews specifically) didn’t receive him as the Christ. 

Redemption is seen in the Incarnation, in which the eternal Word became flesh and dwelt among us (v. 14).  In coming, Christ has made his divine life available.  John’s Gospel contains 46 references to the word “life.”  Here are just two:  It’s an eternal life that transcends physical death and never ends (John 11:25).  It’s also a life of cooperative partnership with God as his friends (John 15:15). 

To get this divine life, you can follow the path of Nicodemus in his three appearances (chapters 3, 7 & 19).  He looks closer at Jesus to know more about him.  He opens room in his heart to receive him.  He chooses to believe in him by publicly serving him. 

Taking it home:  Re-read verses 9-13 and personally evaluate how receptive you are to Jesus.  Resolve to make changes that will re-order your life in Christ.