John-Grace Upon Grace
Orient
This section continues the prologue, the introduction of the book, and Jesus is clearly revealed as the Word. More about Jesus, the long-awaited Messiah is revealed.
Introduction
Many people struggle with faith because they can’t see God. This section opens and closes with statements that Christ has come to show us what God is really like and that He honors His word. In verse 14, the word dwelt literally means to tabernacle with people. This is meant to evoke the remembrance of the glory that filled the temple, now residing in the eternal Jesus Christ. In Him, all the Old Testament promises are fulfilled, for how could a sinful people live with a holy God? The law was given as a placeholder to give people access to God until the King of David’s line who was promised to rule brings grace into the relational equation.
Opening Prayer
Jesus, I come today needing a fresh reminder of who you are. Let me ponder your divine attributes and see the super abundance of your grace. You reveal the God-head to me. Let me dwell with you as you have come down to dwell with me. Amen
Meditation
Read and reread the following passage, taking God’s word in deeply. As you do be sensitive to a phrase or verse the Holy Spirit emphasizes to you personally.
John 1:14-18 (ESV)
14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. 15 (John bore witness about him, and cried out, “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me ranks before me, because he was before me.’”) 16 For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. 17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father's side, he has made him known.
Paraphrase
Rewrite the phrase or verse that the Holy Spirit highlighted during meditation. What is your take away?
Reflect
1. The gospel is the story of the many great acts of Jesus on our behalf. In the glory of the cross, the resurrection, and the ascension, we often overlook His taking on human form as the miracle that it is. Becoming human meant God understands humanity in a different way. Hebrews says he can sympathize with our weakness[1]. How does knowing Christ experienced everything you go through yet without sin comfort you?
2. When Christ came He dwelt among us. The glory of the tabernacle that Jesus embodies in His incarnation was a place where Israel would gather as one people. Do you go to church each Sunday, in expectation that as a member of His gathered people you will encounter His glory in a unique way?
3. It’s hard to read this passage without noticing the connection between Jesus and grace. No matter how long you’ve been a Christian, it can be challenging to believe that God continually forgives your habitual sins again and again, grace upon grace. When you sin, does your heart trust in His forgiveness or hide from the Lord?
Closing Prayer
Jesus as we read your word we can’t help but feel grateful at all that you are and what you have done for us. You left heaven to take on human form to show us the glory of God. You are eternal—you outrank us in every aspect. We receive blessing we don’t deserve and can find truth when we seek you. You fulfilled the Law so we could stand before you without guilt. When we look at You, we see God revealed. Let us gaze on your beauty and thank you for leaving heaven to make a way for us to receive grace upon grace.
Continue praying personally to the Lord with what He showed you during mediation and reflection.
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