How does John 1:1-3 Relate to the Crucifixion of Jesus?

 

John 1:1-3 is a powerful passage that speaks to the divinity and eternal existence of Jesus Christ. Here's the text:

John 1:1-3 (NIV)  

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made."

 Explanation

 "In the beginning was the Word" 

   This refers to Jesus, often called "the Word" (Greek: Logos), showing that He existed before creation—eternally, beyond time.

 "The Word was with God, and the Word was God"

   This establishes the unity and distinction within the Trinity. Jesus (the Word) was in intimate relationship with God the Father but was also fully divine Himself.

 "Through Him all things were made"

   Jesus is the agent of creation. Everything that exists came into being through Him, affirming His creative and sustaining power.

 In Relation to Jesus' Crucifixion

 Jesus' Divinity in His Sacrifice

   John 1:1-3 emphasizes that Jesus is God and has been with the Father since the beginning. At the crucifixion, it wasn't just a man dying on the cross—it was God incarnate. His divine nature makes the sacrifice infinitely valuable and able to cover the sins of humanity.

 Jesus’ Role as Creator and Redeemer  

   As the Creator (v. 3), Jesus had the authority and power over life itself. His crucifixion shows the Creator allowing Himself to experience death in order to redeem His creation. This connects deeply to the idea of Him being the life-giver who gave His life for the world.

 Fulfillment of Divine Purpose

   The crucifixion isn't an accidental event but the fulfillment of a divine plan. Since Jesus was there from the beginning and had a part in creation, His role as Savior was planned from eternity. His death on the cross is the climax of God’s redemptive work for all creation.

John 1:1-3, in light of the crucifixion, shows that Jesus, as both God and Creator, voluntarily became human and laid down His life for the redemption of the world He made. This emphasizes the depth of His love and the power of His sacrifice.

More From Sabbath School Lesson 12 Book of Mark