¶ Intro
Welcome to In the Field Audio Bible . My name is Christie , your host for this special series called The Christmas Story . We begin our exploration of the Christmas narrative through the perspective of the Gospel of John , chapter 1 , verses 1 through 14 .
Unlike traditional stories that highlight the manger scene in Bethlehem , the Gospel of John offers a broader , cosmic perspective on this miraculous occurrence . It emphasizes the profound significance of Jesus' birth , portraying Him as the Word who existed with God and was indeed God , the light illuminating the darkness , and the One who took on flesh to live among us .
This story is more than just about a baby born in a stable . It represents the Creator coming into His own creation , the fulfillment of God's promise to save the world .
In the prologue of John , we are introduced to the brilliance of Christmas from a new angle the mystery of the Incarnation , the triumph of light over darkness and the extraordinary grace we receive through Jesus Christ . Reflecting on these verses shows that Jesus' birth is more than just a historic event . It is a cherished gift of life and hope for us .
Today , as we gather around a beautiful twinkling tree embracing the warmth of this special season , let's come together to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and honor the light that came to bring renewal to our world .
¶ John 1:1-14
The Gospel of John , chapter 1 , verses 1-14 , in . In the beginning , the Word was already there . The Word was with God and the Word was God . He was with God in the beginning . All things were made through Him . Nothing that has been made was made without Him . Life was in him and that life was the light for all people .
The light shines in the darkness , but the darkness has not overcome the light . There was a man sent from God . His name was John . He came to be a witness about that light . His name was John . He came to be a witness about that light . He was a witness so that all people might believe . John himself was not the light .
He came only as a witness to the light . The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world . The Word was in the world and the world was made through him , but the world did not recognize him . He came to what was his own , but his own people did not accept him . Some people did accept him and did believe in his name .
He gave them the right to become children of God . To be a child of God has nothing to do with human parents . Children of God are not born because of human choice or because a husband wants them to be born . They are born because of what God does . The Word became a human being . He made His home with us . We have seen His glory .
It is the glory of the one and only who came from the Father . And the Word was full of grace and truth .
¶ Outro
As we finish up today's journey exploring John , the beloved disciple of Jesus , we can truly appreciate how his special connection with Christ offers us deep insights into the Christmas story . Although John's gospel doesn't describe the nativity scene or recount the shepherds in the manger , it wonderfully highlights the cosmic significance of Jesus's birth .
John starts not in Bethlehem but in the timeless realm . In the beginning was the Word , and the Word was with God and the Word was God . Gospel of John , chapter 1 , verse 1 .
For John , the birth of Jesus truly represents the incarnation of the eternal Word , the light shining brightly into the darkness , with the Creator lovingly stepping into His creation , with the Creator lovingly stepping into His creation .
This perspective beautifully complements the humble setting of Luke's manger in the visit of Matthew's magi , bringing forth a heartfelt declaration the Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us . Gospel of John , chapter 1 , verse 14 . When we look at the Christmas story through John's eyes , it becomes so much more than just a baby born in a stable .
It's a beautiful tale of a God who loves us profoundly , choosing to live among us , brimming with grace and truth . John , having a special bond with Jesus as his close disciple , encourages us to embrace this truth . We're invited to see Christmas not simply as a moment in history , but as a wonderful invitation to eternal life .
As we joyfully celebrate the birth of Christ this season , let's take a moment to reflect on John's heartfelt invitation to believe . These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah , the Son of God , and that by believing you may have life in His name . The Gospel of John , chapter 20 , verse 31 . I truly appreciate you being here today .
May the beautiful light of Christ shine brightly throughout your Christmas season , reminding you of the amazing truth of Emmanuel - God is with us . Until we meet again, wishing you grace and peace .