REFLECTION: God's Word: It's Value and Application

REFLECTION: God’s Word: It’s Value and Application

Jesus Christ and the Bible are referred to as the living word of God. Jesus, as the Living Word, is first and foremost referred to the word that became flesh in John 1: 14. He also embodies God’s message through his life and teachings, while the Bible, that is the written word, is considered divine word of God that remains vital and powerful throughout all generations. Both are central to the Christian faith, providing spiritual life, guidance, and truth.

Jesus as the Living Word:
A. Embodiment of God: Jesus is described as the exact revelation of God to humanity. John 1: 14 says, “And the Word was made 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“.

B. Spiritual sustenance: His words are described as having “spirit and life,” and they are essential for our spiritual life and growth. John 6: 63 says, “The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing“. The words I have spoken to you — they are full of the Spirit and life.

C. Source of freedom: John 8: 32 made it clear that freedom comes from understanding God’s truth as revealed through him. Thus, the bible says, “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

Key aspects of the bible as Living Word:

A. Active and powerful: The Bible is not just words but contains powerful force. It is described as sharper than a two-edged sword, able to penetrate deep into a person’s soul to discern thoughts and intentions, making it active in people’s lives. Heb 4: 12

B. Life-giving: The word is considered a source of spiritual life, similar to how physical food sustains the body. It brings life to the spiritually dead, and its message is the power of God for salvation.

C. Transformative: By engaging with God’s word, lives are transformed and guided. It equips the believers for life and changes their hearts, as they are encouraged to live by its truth. Rom 12:2

D. Inspired by God: The Bible’s living nature comes from its source: God and the Holy Spirit. It is considered divinely inspired, with the Spirit making the words come alive for believers. 2 Pt 1:21.

E. Incarnate in Jesus: The term also identifies Jesus Christ as the “Living Word of God.” He is the personification of God’s message to humanity, and his words are spirit and life. John 1: 14

F. Eternally relevant: Because it is alive, it is eternally relevant and applicable to people in every generation, not just the time in which it was written. It continues to speak to and transform individuals and communities today.

May the word of God dwell richly in your heart. Amen

REFLECTION: God’s Word: It’s Value and Application