Who Is Jesus?

Have you ever paused to truly marvel at who Jesus is? John's Gospel opens with a breathtaking introduction to Jesus, unlike any other Gospel. While Matthew begins with a genealogy and Luke recounts Jesus' miraculous birth, John starts by revealing profound truths about Jesus’ identity that leave us awestruck.

Let’s dive deeper into John’s Gospel and explore three astounding truths about Jesus—truths that hold the power to transform not only how we see him but also how we live every day.

1. Jesus Is Eternal
John begins his Gospel with the powerful statement: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1). Does this phrase sound familiar? It mirrors the opening words of Genesis: “In the beginning, God created…” This connection is no accident. John deliberately draws our attention to Jesus’ eternal nature, showing us that before creation and before time itself—Jesus existed.

Think about that for a moment. Jesus wasn’t created or born into existence. He has always been. This positions him not just as a teacher, prophet, or historical figure but as God himself.

Jesus confirmed this truth in his own words in John 17:5 when he prayed, “Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed.” He existed in perfect unity with the Father, sharing in divine glory long before creation.

This truth carries profound implications for your life. It reminds us that Jesus offers more than temporary solutions or fleeting comfort. His eternal nature assures us that his promises endure forever. In a world marked by constant change and uncertainty, Jesus remains the same yesterday, today, and forever. His gift of eternal life is unshakable, grounded in his divine, everlasting essence.

2. Jesus Is the Creator
John doesn’t stop at revealing Jesus as eternal. He also emphasizes that Jesus is the Creator: “All things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made” (John 1:3). This truth invites us to see the world differently. Every aspect of creation, from the grandeur of the mountains to the intricacies of a snowflake, reflects the creativity and power of Jesus.

Jesus wasn’t just present at creation; he was actively involved. He spoke the universe into existence. From the smallest particle to the largest galaxy, Jesus shaped it all. He designed the vibrant colors of a sunset, the complexity of DNA, and the symphony of birdsong that greets us in the morning.

This truth is a powerful reminder of Jesus’ sovereignty. When life feels chaotic or overwhelming, remember that the one who holds the universe together also holds your life in his hands. As Paul writes in Colossians 1:16-17, “For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth… and in him all things hold together.”

Take a moment today to slow down and marvel at creation. Notice the details—the rustle of leaves, the sparkle of dew, the warmth of sunlight. These moments remind us of Jesus’ creativity and care. He didn’t just create a world to exist; he designed it to reflect his glory and invite us into a deeper appreciation of his majesty.

Living with this awareness can transform your perspective. When challenges arise, consider the power of the Creator who designed the universe and is still at work in your life. His creativity isn't just a thing of the past—it’s ongoing, shaping you into his image day by day.

3. Jesus Is the Word
Finally, John introduces Jesus as the Word, or Logos in Greek: “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). This description is unique and profound. But what does it mean?

A person’s words express their thoughts, intentions, and character. Similarly, Jesus reveals the thoughts, character, and intentions of God. He is the living expression of God’s heart. Through Jesus, the unseen God becomes visible; the unknowable God becomes knowable.
This truth comes alive when we consider Jesus’ life. Everything he did—from healing the sick to forgiving sinners and ultimately laying down his life—shows us what God is like. Jesus embodies God’s mercy, grace, and truth. He came not just to tell us about God but to be God with us.

Hebrews 1:3 reinforces this, stating, “He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature.” When you look at Jesus, you see God. His mercy is undeserved, his grace is unending, and his power is unstoppable.

For many of us, life can feel like a series of unanswered questions and unmet needs. But Jesus, as the Word, offers us something deeper. He is the answer to our greatest questions and the fulfillment of our deepest longings. When you turn to him, you’re not just reading about God—you’re encountering God himself.

What These Truths Mean for You
Reflecting on Jesus as eternal, the Creator, and the Word helps us rediscover the wonder of who he is. It’s easy to become familiar with these concepts, especially if you’ve been in church for a while. But familiarity can lead to complacency, and complacency can rob us of awe.

Here are some ways to reignite your awe and deepen your connection with Jesus:

1. Pause for Gratitude
   Take time each day to thank Jesus for being eternal, creative, and present. His constancy provides stability in a world of change.
2. Marvel at Creation
   Spend time in nature. Let the beauty and complexity of creation remind you of Jesus’ power and creativity.
3. Engage with Scripture
   Dive into the Gospels to see how Jesus lived, loved, and revealed God’s character. His life is a reflection of God’s heart for you.
4. Seek His Presence
   In prayer, invite Jesus to make these truths real in your life. Ask him to deepen your understanding of his eternal nature, creative power, and divine revelation.
5. Share with Others
   Talk about these truths with friends or family. Sharing what you’re learning not only deepens your faith but also encourages others to explore who Jesus is.

Conclusion
Jesus isn’t just a figure from history or a character in a story. He is eternal, the Creator of all things, and the living Word of God. These truths aren’t just theological—they’re deeply personal. They invite you to see Jesus not as someone distant but as someone who knows you, loves you, and wants to walk with you every day.
This Christmas season, let these truths shape your perspective. Allow yourself to be amazed by Jesus, the eternal gift who stepped into history to offer us life. Will you receive this gift? Let his eternal nature bring you peace, his creativity spark joy, and his presence fill you with hope.

This blog is based on the message shared by Campus Pastor Chris DeArman on Sunday December 1, 2024. Check out the full message below!