1 John 1:1–2
That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this is the Word of life. The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us.
═══ OPORD ═══
WHO: John (author) bearing witness; Jesus as the Word of life; the church as recipients and proclaimers.
WHAT: A proclamation of Jesus as the Word of life Who existed from eternity and became incarnate.
WHERE: Opening of a letter to the early church establishing the reality and historicity of Christ.
WHEN: Written late in apostolic era; addresses eternal truth that broke into history and continues to sustain all things.
HOW: Christ’s incarnation is the foundation (justification); His continuing life sustains us (sanctification); His resurrection promises final life (glorification).
John begins by emphasizing what was experienced—Jesus was real, touchable, knowable. This grounds our faith in history and sensory reality. The Word of life Who was from the beginning became flesh and dwelt among us. This past act of incarnation secures our justification. Now, in the present, abiding in Christ sustains our sanctification. Future glorification comes as we remain in Him Who is the source of eternal life.
═══ PRAYER ═══
Jesus, thank You for becoming incarnate and revealing the Father. Help me to know You not just in doctrine but in lived fellowship with Your presence today.
═══ DAILY CHALLENGES ═══
- Spend 10 minutes in quiet reflection on the historical reality of Jesus’ incarnation and what it means for your faith.
- Share with one person today how the incarnate Jesus has made a real difference in your life.