Seven Minutes With Jesus for Men: Applying the Gospel of John to Everyday LifeNäide

Matthew and Luke start with the birth of Christ. Mark begins with John the Baptist preparing the way for Jesus. However, John jumps straight into the deep end and begins with Jesus’ eternal nature. Jesus is the Word, and He has always existed. (It helps me understand reading John 1 by replacing “Word” with “Jesus.”) Not only is Jesus timeless, but He was always with God, and He is always God. Talk about mind-blowing information to begin a book! I believe John is trying to convey that Jesus is incomprehensible.

Let me see if I can illustrate. Some of you, like me, may have spent years chasing that elusive ten-point buck. Year after year, you hunted him until finally, one day, he made a mistake and stepped out in front of your stand. He has been on your wall now for years, and the excitement you once felt chasing him has faded.

Maybe you spent years saving money to buy that truck you always wanted. You were finally able to purchase it, and you loved it for a while. Now, the new scent has faded, replaced by other odors. Remember that chasing after the things of this world never satisfies.

However, a relationship with Jesus satisfies us completely. The magnitude of His nature is incomprehensible, igniting a desire to seek and know Him further. A relationship with Jesus should never grow dull or boring. We should stand in awe of Him because of who He is and always show gratitude to Him for all that He does. John describes Jesus in this opening chapter in the following ways:

• Jesus is eternal and has no beginning or end. (See John 1:1–2.)
• He is the Word, meaning Jesus speaks to us. (See John 1:1.)
• In Him is Life. (See John 1:4.)
• Through Jesus is Light. (See John 1:4–5, 9.)
• He took on flesh and made His home among us. (See John 1:14.)

Application:

How do you find your deepest fulfillment and satisfaction in a relationship with a God who is inconceivable in greatness?

Prayer:

God, nothing in this world brings lasting satisfaction but You. Our gratification and joy increase the more we know You. Please help me in this journey through John to get a greater glimpse of who You are.