Kicking things off, John 1:14 makes a pretty bold statement: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” It’s not just about words on a page. It’s about the Word itself taking on human form. This passage isn’t sugarcoating anything. It’s laying down some serious foundational truth about who Jesus is.
Now, here’s the thing about Jesus. He wasn’t just hanging around with God; He was there, from the get-go, as God. That’s laid out in John 1:1. When we talk about Jesus being fully God and fully human, we’re diving into the heart of what makes Him unique. This is a big deal because His dual nature is what allows Him to bridge the gap between us and God.
When John says, “We beheld His glory,” it’s like he’s inviting everyone to take a closer look at the evidence of Jesus’s divine origin. The glory that people witnessed wasn’t just a nice trait—it was a display of His divine nature. Seeing this glory was proof that Jesus wasn’t just a regular guy, but someone supernatural.
So, what’s the takeaway? Understanding who Jesus is starts with seeing Him as both God and human. This incredible combination makes Him relatable to us and powerful enough to address our deepest spiritual needs. It’s a mind-blowing truth that sets the stage for everything else we come to know about Him.
Jesus’ Divine Authority and Nature Highlighted in Scripture
When we turn to Philippians 2:5-11, there’s a profound picture painted of Christ, one that’s all about humility and exaltation. Here, Paul lays out a narrative that’s hard to miss: Jesus, despite being in the very form of God, chose to take on human likeness. Imagine that. From divinity, He stepped into humility, going as far as death on a cross.
This isn’t just about His sacrifice; it’s about what happens next. God exalted Him to the highest place, giving Him a name that’s above every other. This isn’t merely a promotion. It’s a declaration of Jesus’ unmatched status and authority.
Here’s where it gets really striking. Philippians echoes an Old Testament note from Isaiah, where God makes it clear that every knee will bow to Him. By applying this to Jesus, scripture is banging the drum that Jesus shares in God’s divine authority. It’s not a suggestion; it’s a straight-up affirmation of His rightful place over all creation.
What’s the point for us? Recognizing Jesus’ authority isn’t just about knowing facts; it’s about shaping how we live, acknowledging that His power and presence demand our attention and reverence in everyday life. Having this perspective transforms our understanding of who we follow and submit to.
Revelation’s Depiction: The Exalted and Eternal Son
John’s vision in Revelation is like the crescendo in an epic symphony, revealing Jesus in dazzling, undeniable power. Out there on the island of Patmos, John’s encounter wasn’t just a mere dream; it was a front-row seat to the majesty and sovereignty of the risen Christ.
Picture this: Jesus is described as the Faithful Witness, the Firstborn from the Dead, and Ruler of Kings on Earth (Revelation 1:5). Those titles pack a punch, showcasing His role in history and authority in the universe. It places Him in a league of His own, underscoring His unique position in the cosmic order.
Revelation 1:8 doubles down with Jesus as the Alpha and Omega, the Almighty. That’s not small talk—it’s a cosmic declaration of His eternal existence and ultimate power. Jesus isn’t just popping into history for a brief cameo. He’s been at the beginning, and He’ll be there at the end. That’s permanence that gives everything He says and does immense weight.
Then there’s that unforgettable image of the Son of Man clothed in majesty, with eyes like a flame of fire and so much more (Revelation 1:13-15). It’s an image that’s impossible to ignore. It’s a vision filled with power and authority, and it challenges us to see Jesus as He truly is: a King reigning in glory.
So, what does all this mean for us? Recognizing the grandeur of how Revelation describes Jesus shapes our understanding of history, of God’s plan, and of our purpose in His unfolding story. It calls us to respond, live in awe of Christ’s glory, and walk in certainty of His eternal reign.
Closing Prayer
Lord, thank You for Your Word that guides me, transforms me, and deepens my relationship with You. Help me to apply Your truth to my life, trusting that through Your Word, I can become more like You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.