New Testament · chapter

John 1: The Word Became Flesh

A verse-by-verse walk through John's soaring prologue.

By David Kumar · Reviewed by Rev. Samuel Thomas

Key Passages

John 1:1–5 · John 1:14 · John 1:29

John's prologue is the highest peak of New Testament theology. In eighteen verses we meet Jesus as the eternal Word who was with God, who was God, and who became flesh for our salvation.

The Word Existed Before Creation (vv.1–3)

Before there was anything, there was the Word. John is echoing Genesis 1:1 to declare that Jesus is not a created being.

The Word Became Flesh (vv.14–18)

The infinite God took on humanity to make the Father known.

Application

See Jesus as He truly is — the eternal Word made flesh — and receive Him.

Reflection

What does John mean that Jesus is 'the Word'?
How does John 1:14 change how we think of God?