Jesus is our Saviour - Iesu o lo tatou Faaola

Scripture Focus: Ioane 1:10-18

He was in the world, and the world was made through him, and the world didn’t recognize him. He came to his own, and those who were his own didn’t receive him. But as many as received him, to them he gave the right to become God’s children, to those who believe in his name: who were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. The Word became flesh, and lived among us. We saw his glory, such glory as of the one and only Son of the Father, full of grace and truth. John testified about him. He cried out, saying, “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me has surpassed me, for he was before me.’” From his fullness we all received grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses. Grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ. No one has seen God at any time. The one and only Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, he has declared him.
- John 1:10-18 (WEB)

Study:

This passage highlights the incredible truth of Jesus’ identity and the gift He offers. Initially, the world didn’t recognize its Creator, nor did His own people accept Him. This demonstrates a profound rejection of God's own offering. However, for those who *do* receive Him – those who believe – comes the extraordinary privilege of becoming children of God. This isn't through natural birth or human effort, but a new birth *of God*. The Word, Jesus, became flesh, dwelling amongst humanity, revealing God’s glory and His fullness of grace and truth. John the Baptist, a forerunner, testified to Jesus’ surpassing nature and pre-existence. We receive grace upon grace from His fullness, a gift far exceeding the law given through Moses. Ultimately, Jesus unveils the Father, making the invisible God known to us.

Application:

The invitation to become a child of God is open to all who believe in Jesus. This isn't about religious performance, but about receiving Christ and allowing Him to transform our lives. We often encounter rejection and misunderstanding in sharing our faith, mirroring the initial response to Jesus. However, we must remember that God’s grace is sufficient, and His truth shines brighter than any darkness. We should consider how we can daily embrace the grace given and actively share the truth of Jesus with those around us.

Reflection Questions:

• How does it impact you that the world initially rejected its own creator?
• What does it mean to be born of God, rather than of human effort?
• How does the concept of ‘grace upon grace’ encourage you in your faith?
• In what ways can you actively share the grace and truth of Jesus with others this week?

Prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for revealing yourself to us, despite our initial rejection. Thank you for the incredible gift of becoming children of God through faith in you. Fill us with your grace and truth, and empower us to share your love with the world. Amen.

Tags:Jesus, Saviour, Grace, Truth, John, Gospel, Faith, Belief, Children of God, New Birth, Redemption, Salvation, Christian Life