The Eternal Word

by Hoyt Smith

We know words are important because they express the thoughts, intentions, and wishes of the speaker. As Christians, we know words are important because God chose to use inspired men to pen His holy word, the Bible. The Mt. Juliet congregation has embraced the challenge of reading through the Bible in 2008, and I know we will be blessed individually and as a congregation. I want to share with you some thoughts on the Living Word, Jesus Christ. John begins his gospel account as follows:

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being." John 1:1-3 NASV

The Greek word used here, logos, simply means "something said", but John goes much deeper with his explanation. Why do you think John used "the Word" to describe Jesus? The power and eternal nature of God's word makes this a powerful symbol. How did God create the universe? Gen. 1:3- "Then God said, Let there be light, and there was light." The Hebrews writer reaffirms in chapter 11:3- "By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible." He spoke it into existence! What power! God's word is also eternal. Luke 21:33- Jesus states: "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away." Also in Hebrews 4:12 we read, “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."

Yes, words are important, and how blessed we are to have God's word available to guide our lives.