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Book of John - Chapter 1 - Verse 1

1:1
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

Meaning

The verse "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" is one of the most profound and theological statements found in the Bible. Here, the term "Word" refers to Jesus Christ, who is described as the eternal, pre-existent Word of God. This verse emphasizes the divinity of Jesus, stating that He not only existed before the world began but also that He was with God and was God himself. This concept highlights the doctrine of the Trinity, which teaches that God exists as three persons - the Father, the Son (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit - in one Godhead. By declaring that Jesus is both with God and is God, this verse affirms the unique relationship between Jesus and the Father, as well as His essential nature as divine. It sets the stage for the revelation of Jesus' identity and purpose in the rest of the Gospel of John.

Theological Overview

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God," it is important to understand the significance of the term "Word." In Greek, the term used for "Word" is "logos," which has a rich history in philosophy and theology. The concept of the "logos" was used by pre-Socratic philosophers to explain the order and reason in the universe. In the context of this verse from the Gospel of John, the "Word" refers to Jesus Christ, who is both eternal and divine. By stating that the Word was with God and the Word was God, the verse emphasizes the intimate relationship between Jesus and God the Father, highlighting the mystery of the Holy Trinity. This verse serves as a foundational declaration of Jesus' deity, presenting Him as the eternal, uncreated Word of God who has existed from the beginning of time.

American Standard Version

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
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