Lesson 22: John 1:1
The Blueprint — The Verse
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Memorization Practice
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The Context — The History
John wrote his Gospel for both Jewish and Gentile readers in the late first century, when Greek philosophy spoke of a divine 'Logos' as reason and order. John redefines this concept, declaring that the eternal Word became flesh in JesusJesus of Nazareth, also called the Christ or the Messiah, is the central figure of the New Testament and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. Born in the line of David, He taught with divine authority, performed miracles, and revealed the kingdom of God. Through His crucifixion and resurrection, Jesus provides atonement, salvation, and restored relationship with God. He is... More.
The Narrative — The Lead-Up
John opens his Gospel with a cosmic prologue echoing . Before narrating Jesus' ministry, he establishes that the Word existed before creation, was with God, and was fully God — the foundation for everything that follows.
The Echo — Follow-on Verses
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The same was in the beginning with God.
Shown in World English Bible (WEB).
Read the verse immediately after this lesson () to continue the passage.
Discussion
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Why does John begin with 'In the beginning' instead of a birth narrative?
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What does it mean that the Word was both with God and was God?
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How does this verse shape your understanding of who JesusJesus of Nazareth, also called the Christ or the Messiah, is the central figure of the New Testament and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. Born in the line of David, He taught with divine authority, performed miracles, and revealed the kingdom of God. Through His crucifixion and resurrection, Jesus provides atonement, salvation, and restored relationship with God. He is... More is?
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