Looking Closely At The Savior Series

Topic: LOOKING CLOSELY AT THE SAVIOR

Text: John 1:1-14

Intro.

A. Today, almost everyone in our planet celebrates Christmas. But sadly speaking, the real meaning or spirit of Christmas is not seen in the celebration. Christmas must be a commemoration of the Savior’s Birth, but what is happening is different. Why? Perhaps, the reason is, many do not really have proper knowledge and a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

B. Therefore, it’s logical that we should look closely at the biblical account regarding the nature and character of the Savior in order to know Him better.

C. We will study the testimony of the apostle John, in chapter 1: 1-14. Let’s find out who Jesus is in this passage.

D. Throughout the passage, Jesus is referred to be the “Word”. John made it clear in verse 14. He said: “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us…the only begotten Son of the Father.” John really meant Jesus here.

E. This passage teaches us:

1. The Pre-existence of Jesus. That He exists before coming to flesh or humanity. It means, before Jesus became man, He already exists. (cf. John 8: 58). Keywords in vs. 1-3:

Ø “in the beginning was the Word” v.1a

Ø “was with God” v.1b

Ø “was in the beginning” v.2

Ø “all things were made through Him” v.3

These could not be said of Him had he not existed before His coming

to humanity.

2. The Unique Personality of Jesus. He has a nature and personality apart from being human. Paul indicated it clearly in Philippians 2:6-7. Paul said: “Jesus Christ, Who, being in the form of God…” This is the nature that Jesus had before taking humanity to himself. In theology we call it “Incarnation” which means, “God taking himself into flesh” or “God taking flesh to himself.” Therefore despite the grave opposition of this doctrine, this passage clearly teaches us that Jesus is the Incarnate God. Keywords that indicate His divine Personality:

Ø “in the beginning was with God. It means like God, He is eternal. v.1,2

Ø “was God” v.1

Ø “all things were made through Him” –It means He is the creative, sustaining, directing and guiding force, one, power behind all that is in this universe. He is the Creator, Sustainer, Director, and Guide of all things.

Ø “in Him was life” –He is the Fountain of life, the Life-giver.

These could not be said of Him if He was a mere human being like us.

3. The Purpose of the Humanity of Jesus. There is something of great importance of His coming to flesh. The question is: “What is the purpose of his incarnation?” The answer is redemption. His coming to humanity has a redemptive purpose. He came to “seek and save the lost” (Matt.18: 11). He came to make those who receive and believe on Him children of God (v. 12,13). Could He not save us without coming to flesh? The answer is yes. Redemption from sin requires atonement by blood. This is the reason Jesus had to take humanity to himself and to die on our place.

Conclusion:

The ONE that was born in Christmas is the Greatest Man that ever lived. He is the Almighty God taking flesh to Himself for the purpose of redeeming us. This must be the reason and the center of our Christmas celebration. The Savior that was born is God Himself. We should give to Him the reverence due to Him. We should be filled with gratitude to Him.