Welcome to our 2017 New Testament Reading Plan!
As we begin this year's journey through the New Testament with the Book of John, I am reminded of the powerful words and phrases that feature so prominently in this Gospel. John emphasizes many elemental concepts throughout his writings, and we see several examples in this first chapter: "Word" (vs. 1); "Life" (vs. 4); "Light and Darkness" (vs. 5); "Lamb of God" (vs. 29); "Water and Spirit" (vs. 33). These theological ideas are so profound that I have heard it said of this Gospel that it is simple enough for a child to safely wade, yet deep enough for an elephant to drown.
In Christmas, we frequently speak of Jesus as "Emmanuel," or God with us. John 1:14 richly describes the incarnation of Jesus Christ as the Word becoming flesh and dwelling among us, literally "pitching his tent among us. This image recalls the Old Testament role of the Tabernacle as evidence of God's presence with His people.
My final observation today would be the gentle invitation that beckons people to explore the life of faith in Christ. When Jesus is approached by two of John's disciples, he encourages them to "come and see." Later, Philip shares his discovery with Nathanael. When Nathanael questions how Jesus could possibly be the Messiah, Philip simply answers in the same way, "Come and see." Let this be an invitation for us in 2017 to explore the New Testament and allow the Holy Spirit to build up our faith! Come and see!
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