Jesus: The Word of God

This time of year, many people set out nativity scenes that depict baby
Jesus in the manger to remind us of our Savior’s humble birth. My family’s
nativity set was made of sturdy wooden pieces so the kids could touch the
figures and play with them. Even children can understand something of the
beauty and wonder of Jesus Christ’s birth (Matthew 11:25-26). But even
though He was born in Bethlehem, today’s reading reminds us that Jesus, who
is God the Son, has always existed. In fact, we owe all life to Him!

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In the beginning of John’s Gospel (his account of the good news), John uses
the term “the Word” to refer to Jesus. Jesus has always been with God (John
1:2). And Jesus has always been God; all things that are in existence were
created through Him (verses 1, 3). He became flesh—a human being—and lived
among us (verse 14). But even as Jesus came to His creation, the world and
the people tainted by sin no longer recognized Him (verses 10-11).

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In this short introduction to his Gospel account, John reminds us of why
Jesus was willing to come to earth as a human being, and even be rejected
by the people He created and loved. Verse 12 says, “Yet to all who did
receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become
children of God.” This is the main point of the Christmas story—the main
point of the gospel! Jesus came into the world to save sinners. He would
die for their sins on the cross, and He would be raised again to give
eternal life to all those who believe in Him. Jesus wasn’t just a baby in a
manger; He is the Creator of the universe and the Ruler of all things, and
He is the Savior we all need! • Laura N. Sweet

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• Read Hebrews 1:1-3. Why do you think John called Jesus the Word?

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• Jesus is both fully God and fully human. Why is it important for us to
remember that Jesus is the eternal, glorious Son of God, especially at
Christmas time?

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• If someone asked you about the main point of the Christmas story, what
could you tell them?

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The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. John 1:14a (NIV)

Read Verses:

Luke 2:4-Luke 2:7; John 1:1-John 1:14