Topical Encyclopedia The title "Word" ascribed to Jesus Christ is a profound and significant designation found primarily in the writings of the Apostle John. This title encapsulates the divine nature, pre-existence, and revelatory role of Jesus as the ultimate communication of God to humanity.Biblical Foundation The primary scriptural basis for Jesus being called the "Word" is found in the opening verses of the Gospel of John. John 1:1-3 states: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through Him all things were made, and without Him nothing was made that has been made." This passage establishes the eternal existence of the Word, affirming that Jesus is both distinct from and yet fully divine, participating in the creation of all things. Further, John 1:14 declares: "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." Here, the incarnation of the Word is emphasized, highlighting the mystery of God becoming man in the person of Jesus Christ. This verse underscores the tangible manifestation of God's glory and truth through Jesus. Theological Significance The title "Word" (Greek: Logos) carries deep theological implications. In the context of Hellenistic philosophy, "Logos" was understood as the rational principle that orders the universe. By using this term, John communicates to both Jewish and Gentile audiences that Jesus is the ultimate reason and purpose behind creation, the divine logic that sustains all things. For the Jewish audience, the concept of the "Word" would resonate with the Old Testament understanding of God's word as active and powerful. In Genesis, God speaks creation into existence, and throughout the Hebrew Scriptures, His word is depicted as a dynamic force that accomplishes His will (e.g., Isaiah 55:11). By identifying Jesus as the Word, John affirms that Jesus is the embodiment of God's creative and redemptive power. Revelatory Role As the Word, Jesus is the supreme revelation of God. Hebrews 1:1-2 states: "On many past occasions and in many different ways, God spoke to our fathers through the prophets. But in these last days, He has spoken to us by His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, and through whom He made the universe." This passage highlights the culmination of divine revelation in Jesus, surpassing all previous communications through prophets and scriptures. Jesus, as the Word, reveals the nature and character of God. In John 14:9 , Jesus tells Philip, "Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father." This statement affirms that in Jesus, the invisible God is made visible, and His words and actions perfectly reflect the Father's will and essence. Conclusion The title "Word" as applied to Jesus Christ is a profound declaration of His divine nature, eternal existence, and role as the ultimate revelation of God. Through this title, believers are invited to understand Jesus as the living expression of God's will, wisdom, and love, who entered human history to bring salvation and reveal the fullness of God's glory. Nave's Topical Index John 1:1In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. Nave's Topical Index Library He Produces Testimonies to the Same Doctrine from the Apostle Paul ... On the Clause, and in one Lord Jesus Christ, with a Reading from ... Acts XI Cli. Letter or Address of Theodoret to the Monks of the ... Introduction Hypocrisy The Fifth Theological Oration. Answer to Eunomius' Second Book . The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, Resources Who is Jesus Christ? | GotQuestions.orgIs there power in the name of Jesus? | GotQuestions.org Is Jesus God? Did Jesus ever claim to be God? | GotQuestions.org Jesus: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |