Will God Dwell on Earth?

"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." (John 1:14 ESV)

John's prologue offers the most profound theological interpretation of Christmas found in Scripture. Rather than detailing the circumstances of Christ's birth, John explores its cosmic significance. Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones draws our attention to the revolutionary declaration that "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us."

Lloyd-Jones observes that John's statement addresses humanity's fundamental question: Can the infinite God be known by finite humans? While ancient philosophers debated whether divine reality could be experienced, John announces that God has resolved this dilemma through incarnation. The eternal Word—God's perfect self-expression—has become accessible in human form.

The Greek term translated "dwelt" (eskēnōsen) literally means "tabernacled" or "pitched his tent," deliberately echoing Old Testament language about God's presence in the tabernacle. Lloyd-Jones emphasizes that John intentionally connects Christ's incarnation with God's dwelling among Israel, but with a crucial difference: God now dwells not in a building but in a person.

The phrase "we have seen his glory" affirms that Christ's humanity did not diminish His deity. Though veiled in flesh, divine glory remained visible to those with eyes to see. Lloyd-Jones notes that just as the Shekinah glory filled the tabernacle and temple, the glory of God filled the person of Christ. His miracles, teaching, character, and ultimately His resurrection revealed the "glory as of the only Son from the Father."

The expression "full of grace and truth" highlights what the incarnation reveals about God's character. Lloyd-Jones observes that these attributes perfectly address humanity's predicament. We need truth to overcome our ignorance about God, and we need grace to overcome our alienation from God. In Christ, both are provided in full measure.

This Christmas, approach John's profound declaration with renewed wonder. The Word became flesh—the Creator joined creation, the infinite embraced finitude, the eternal entered time. The One who exists beyond human comprehension has made Himself knowable. The God who once dwelt behind veils and curtains now reveals Himself openly in Christ.

John's Gospel doesn't mention shepherds, angels, or mangers. Yet it captures the heart of Christmas: God has come near. The baby in Bethlehem is nothing less than the eternal Word, the perfect expression of God, full of grace and truth.

Listen to all of Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones' sermons on Christmas at mljtrust.org.