Begin with the Eternal Word

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for John 1:1 (ESV)
Begin with the Eternal Word

Read

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” John 1:1 (ESV)

The Gospel of John, written by the apostle John near the end of the first century, is a Spirit-inspired portrait of Jesus as the eternal Son of God. John’s purpose is clear: that you may believe Jesus is the Christ and have life in His name (John 20:31). Chapter 1 opens with a poetic prologue (1:1–18) that echoes Genesis, revealing Jesus as the divine Word (Logos) who existed before creation, in intimate fellowship with the Father, and fully God. Themes of life, light, truth, and grace shine through. This matters for your daily life because it anchors your identity, your beginnings, and your decisions in a Person—Jesus—who is eternal, present, and powerful to create newness in you.

Examine

John 1:1 declares that Jesus (the Word) is eternal, divine, and distinct in personhood yet fully God. He is God’s perfect self-expression—God speaking Himself into our world. This means the foundation of reality is not randomness but relationship; not silence but God’s Word. Your life isn’t left to guesswork—God has spoken, and His Word is Jesus.

Connection to Jesus: This verse is about Jesus. He fulfills the Scriptures as the Word of God made flesh (John 1:14), revealing the Father’s heart, truth, and glory. Jesus’ teachings and life are the definitive message of God. When you listen to Jesus, you are hearing God. When you follow Jesus, you are walking in the will of God.

Main Themes:
- Revelation: God speaks clearly and lovingly through Jesus.
- Relationship: The Word was “with God”—eternal fellowship at the heart of reality, inviting you into communion with God.
- Lordship and Identity: The Word “was God”—Jesus is worthy of trust, worship, and obedience.

Key Word Study:
- Word (Greek: logos): More than “speech,” logos means message, reason, and self-expression. For Jewish readers it connects to God’s creating and saving “word” (dabar). For Greeks it evoked the rational principle of the cosmos. John brings both together: Jesus is God’s ultimate self-revelation—the meaning behind everything.
- In the beginning (Greek: en archē): Echoes Genesis 1:1, locating Jesus before time and creation. He doesn’t start at Bethlehem; He is from eternity. Your new beginnings are secure because they start with the One who preceded all beginnings.

Apply

Reflective Questions:
- Where am I looking for meaning or direction apart from Jesus, the true Word?
- What “beginning” in my life (a project, relationship, habit) needs to start with Jesus rather than my own strength?
- Do my words reflect the Word—are they truthful, gracious, and life-giving?

Real-Life Application:
- Start with the Word: Begin your day by slowly reading John 1:1–5. Whisper, “Jesus, You are the Word—speak, I am listening.” Let His presence frame your schedule.
- Align decisions: Before a key choice today, ask: “Does this reflect the character of Jesus—the true Word?” Choose what is true and loving, even if it’s harder.
- Shape your words: Use a “Word-filter” for speech and messages: Is it true? Is it gracious? Is it life-giving? If not, revise before sending or speaking.

Pray

Father, I praise You that from the beginning, You have not been silent. In Jesus, Your eternal Word, You have revealed Your heart, truth, and love. I confess that I often chase lesser voices and rely on my own plans. Forgive me and realign my heart with Your Son. Jesus, be the first and final word over my thoughts, choices, and relationships today. Holy Spirit, empower me to listen to Christ, to speak with His grace and truth, and to walk in His wisdom. Let my life echo the Word I follow. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Closing Reflection: Picture the dawn spreading across a quiet horizon and a blank page before you. Before you write a single line today, the Word is already there—steady, shining, and true—ready to author goodness, wisdom, and peace in your story.

Call to Action: Memorize John 1:1 and carry a simple breath prayer: “Jesus, You are the Word.” Before your next decision or conversation, pause and pray it. Expect the eternal Word to guide your next step with clarity, courage, and grace.