John 1:14a, 12a
Chapter 1
12
But to all who received him,
he empowers to become children of God,
for they believe in his name.
14
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us;
and we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s only Son,
full of grace and truth.
Commentaries
Prologue.
The Gospel of John begins with a solemn introduction that highlights the theological centerpiece of the book: Jesus Christ, the mystery of the incarnation, revealing God’s glory. It also shares the Johannine community’s testimony of faith in their Lord.
Pre-existence and Creative Activity of the Logos (1-3). These first three verses affirm the pre-existence, transcendence, and eternity of the Logos (Word): Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of the Father. His divinity is also confirmed (1), which, along with Thomas’ confession – “My Lord and my God” (20:28) – creates an inclusion. Therefore, the Gospel begins and ends with the declaration of Jesus’ divinity.
Revelation and Rejection (4-11). The logos is the source of life that shines and reveals itself: it is light. But the revelation of light is opposed by darkness, meaning those who reject his saving work. There is great drama in the history of salvation: the Word of salvation entered the world, but his own people did not accept him (11). For John, rejection is the greatest tragedy of humanity.
Revelation and Acceptance (12-18). Those who embrace and accept the revelation of light gain the power to become children of God. Divine sonship is a gift. Verse 14 is the core of the prologue: “The Word became flesh”: in the person of Jesus, divinity shines through physically. God dwells among us. The body of Jesus has become God’s sanctuary for humanity. The divine presence, once connected to the tent in the desert, then to the temple in Jerusalem, now resides in the person of Jesus Christ. In him lives all the goodness and mercy of God, and these are stable, enduring, and everlasting.