May 2002
Getting to know the Gospel of John
Over the centuries Christians from all walks of life, cultures, and backgrounds have turned to the Bible, God's Word, to find comfort, encouragement, and a fresh understanding of who Jesus is. Often the first book they turn to is the Gospel of John, which is filled with well-known and well-loved passages.
From the very first chapter, John portrays in beautiful and clear language some of the deepest mysteries of the Christian faith.
Who is Jesus?
John tells us Jesus-called the Word in this passage-is God Himself who became flesh and made his dwelling among us (John 1:1, 14).
Why did God, in the person of Jesus, come to earth?
John reveals this mystery to us in what is perhaps the best known verse of the Bible. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16).
What a picture of the gift God has given each of us! Eternal life does not merely mean endless life after death, but rather an eternal relationship with God, our Father. This life actually begins now-here on earthand continues forever!
How can we be sure that we are God's children?
John says, "To all who received him (Jesus), to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God-children born not of natural descent, nor or human decision or a husband's will, but born of God" (verses John 1:12-13).
It's so reassuring to know that once we've put our trust in Jesus Christ, we become children of God. That's a secure promise from God Himself!
If you begin to doubt whether the commitment you made to Christ "counted" for anything, if you question whether or not you are a part of God's forever family, I encourage you to study this beautiful part of the Bible. Get to know Jesus in a fresh way, the same Jesus who said, "I am the good shepherd. I know my sheep and my sheep know me ...and I lay down my life for the sheep" (John 10:14).
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16
This month's article came from Wingfield Ministries' newsletter The Follower,
April edition.
© 2001 Central
Schwenkfelder Church. All Rights Reserved.
Page Update
04/30/2002 09:58:30 PM