Daily Devotions
John
"In the beginning was the Word..."
Text: John 1:1-18
A DEEP CONSCIOUSNESS OF THE DOCTRINE OF “THE WORD” AMONG THE DISCIPLES OF JESUS
The Apostle John was well instructed by his Teacher concerning the doctrine of the Word of God. In His post-resurrection appearances, Jesus had spent much time teaching His Disciples particularly the Word of God.
Luke carefully noted how Jesus taught His Disciples. Let us observe the emphasis Jesus highlighted to His Disciples:-
“Then He said to them,
‘These are the words which I spoke to you
while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled
which were written in the Law of Moses
and the Prophets and the Psalms
concerning Me.”
Luke 24:44
Three years of sitting at the feet of Jesus – it should not surprise us that John began the writing of his Gospel, mentioning “The Word”. How could he have been less impacted?
THE PREACHING OF THE WORD OF GOD BY THE APOSTLES
John was there with the rest of the Apostles when they became the founding members of the Church in Jerusalem. He observed first hand the power of God’s Word as it was preached to the multitudes. The Church grew apace even as the Word of God spread and multiplied.
A quick survey of the Book of Acts, would give us an idea of the central role of God’s Word in the New Testament Church.
1. The Apostle Peter and the Word of God
Peter, the leading Apostle, was a prime example of one who made frequent references to the Word of God.
“Men and brethren, this Scripture had to be fulfilled…”
Acts 1:16
“For it is written in the Book of Psalms…”
Acts 1:20
“But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel…”
Acts 2:17
2. The New Testament Church and The Word of God
The Apostles were deeply committed to the task of teaching God’s Word to the new-born Church.
“And they continued steadfastly
in the Apostles’ doctrine (a reference to ‘The Word of God’)
and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.”
Acts 2:42
As the Church grew in size, more ministries were developed. Nevertheless the Word of God retained its prominent role.
“Then the Twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said,
‘It is not desirable that we should leave the Word of God
and serve tables.Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men
Of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom,
Whom we may appoint over this business;But we will give ourselves continually to prayer
And to the ministry of the Word.’ ”
Acts 6:2-4
The Church came under persecution before too long, but that did not adversely affect the preaching of God’s Word.
“Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere
preaching the Word.”
Acts 8:4
“But the Word of God grew and multiplied.”
Acts 12:24
3. The Apostle Paul and the Word of God
Barnabas and Paul were sent by the Holy Spirit to do Missions work. Their first consciousness of that work was well captured by Luke’s observation.
“So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit…
They preached the Word of God…”
Acts 13:4,5
The power of God was made evident in the preaching of God’s Word.
“On the next Sabbath almost the whole city
came together to hear the Word of God.”
Acts 13:44
How much has the Word of God touched and impacted our lives?