The Unworthiness of the Servant

Scripture: John 1:27 (ESV) – “Even he who comes after me, the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.”

In John 1:27, John the Baptist continues to emphasize his humble position in relation to Jesus: “Even he who comes after me, the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.” This statement carries profound humility and awe, reflecting John’s deep awareness of the majesty and greatness of Christ.

In the cultural context of John’s day, untying someone’s sandal strap was considered the task of the lowest servant. It was a menial, humiliating job that no respectable person would want to perform. Yet John, who was revered as a great prophet and spiritual leader, declares that he is not even worthy to do this for Jesus. This is a stunning expression of reverence. John sees himself as utterly insignificant compared to the One who is coming—Jesus, the Lamb of God and the King of kings.

This verse teaches us about the heart posture that every follower of Christ should have. John’s greatness, recognized even by Jesus Himself (Luke 7:28), did not lead to pride or self-importance. Instead, his awareness of God’s holiness and glory produced genuine humility. In a world that constantly promotes self-exaltation and pride, we are called to adopt the same posture. The more we understand the greatness of Christ, the more we will recognize our own unworthiness—and yet marvel at His grace that calls us into relationship with Him.

Consider how often we become focused on our own accomplishments, status, or even our spiritual work. We might be tempted to feel important or entitled because of what we do for God or how we serve others. But John’s statement reminds us that our worth and value are not in what we do but in Christ Himself. Any privilege we have to serve Him is a result of His grace, not our merit.

Yet, even though we are unworthy, Christ invites us into His work. This makes our service not only humbling but also deeply meaningful. We are called to serve, knowing that our worth is found not in our abilities but in the One we serve. How can we, like John, keep a humble spirit, always pointing to the greatness of Jesus rather than drawing attention to ourselves?

Reflection Questions:

  1. Do you approach your service to God with humility, recognizing that you are unworthy apart from His grace?
  2. In what areas of your life might you need to cultivate a deeper sense of reverence and humility before Christ?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, we are humbled by the greatness of who You are. Like John the Baptist, we confess that we are not worthy to even serve You, yet You invite us into Your work by grace. Help us to live with a heart of humility, always pointing to Your majesty and never seeking our own glory. May we be faithful servants, exalting You in everything we do. In Your holy name, Amen.

*edited from a sermon by Pastor Chris Cousine*

The Humble Messenger

Scripture: John 1:26 (ESV) – “John answered them, ‘I baptize with water, but among you stands one you do not know.'”

In John 1:26, John the Baptist responds to the religious authorities with a humble but bold statement: “I baptize with water, but among you stands one you do not know.” With these words, John redirects the attention away from himself and points to the One who truly matters. His response reveals a humility that refuses to claim authority beyond what God has given him and an unwavering focus on preparing the way for the Messiah.

John acknowledges that his baptism is with water—a symbolic act of repentance and preparation. Yet, he hints that there is someone far greater already present, someone whom the religious leaders do not recognize. Imagine the scene: these religious authorities, trained in the Scriptures and experts in the Law, are oblivious to the presence of the Messiah among them. Despite their deep knowledge and spiritual heritage, they are spiritually blind to the One who has come to fulfill God’s promises.

This verse serves as a sobering reminder that it is possible to be immersed in religious activity and yet miss the presence of Christ. The Pharisees and priests were committed to maintaining religious practices, but they were so focused on their expectations and authority that they failed to see the very One they had been waiting for. How often do we, too, become so consumed with our routines and religious duties that we miss the work and presence of Jesus in our midst?

John’s humility is striking. He does not exalt himself or seek glory. Instead, he willingly takes a backseat to Jesus, knowing that his role is to point others to the Savior. This is the essence of true Christian service: a willingness to step aside so that Christ may be exalted. Are we as willing to humble ourselves, acknowledging that our efforts, no matter how sincere, are but a small part of God’s greater plan?

Moreover, John’s words should prompt us to examine our awareness of Jesus’ presence in our lives. “Among you stands one you do not know” is a challenge to ensure that our hearts are tuned to recognize and respond to the Lord. Jesus is at work among us, but are we spiritually attentive and ready to acknowledge Him?

Reflection Questions:

  1. Are there areas in your life where you might be too focused on religious activities or expectations, causing you to miss the presence and work of Jesus?
  2. How can you cultivate a heart of humility, like John, that seeks to point others to Christ rather than seeking attention for yourself?

Prayer: Lord, we thank You for the example of John the Baptist, who humbly pointed others to Christ and did not seek his own glory. Help us to recognize Your presence in our lives and to be attentive to the ways You are working among us. Give us hearts of humility, that we may always direct others to You and not to ourselves. May our lives be a testimony that exalts Jesus, the One who is worthy of all honor. In His name, Amen.

*edited from a sermon by Pastor Chris Cousine*

Questioning Authority

Scripture: John 1:25 (ESV) – “They asked him, ‘Then why are you baptizing, if you are neither the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?'”

In John 1:25, the delegation sent by the Pharisees presses John the Baptist with a critical question: “Then why are you baptizing, if you are neither the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” Their inquiry reflects their confusion and skepticism. They could not understand why John was performing an act as significant as baptism if he did not claim to be one of these major figures they were expecting. Baptism was not just a casual ritual; it carried weight and meaning, symbolizing repentance and purification. By baptizing, John was doing something radical and unexpected, especially since he was calling even Jews to repentance.

For the Pharisees and their representatives, religious authority and practices were tightly regulated. They were not accustomed to someone acting so boldly outside their established system. Their question implies, “Who gave you the right?” In their eyes, only someone with divine authority or prophetic status should be able to initiate such a significant religious practice. John’s ministry was shaking up their understanding of how God’s work should unfold, and they demanded an explanation.

This scene challenges us to think about how we respond when God works outside of our expectations. The religious leaders had built systems that made sense to them, but God was doing something new and different through John. Are we sometimes guilty of asking similar questions when we see God working in unexpected ways? Do we demand explanations or insist that God conform to our ideas of how things should be done? The Pharisees’ rigidity blinded them to the new movement of God’s grace that was unfolding before their eyes.

John the Baptist’s boldness and faithfulness to his calling remind us that God’s work is not bound by human expectations or limitations. He often uses unlikely people and methods to accomplish His purposes. Are we willing to recognize and embrace what God is doing, even when it makes us uncomfortable or challenges our traditions?

The Pharisees’ question also pushes us to consider the authority we recognize in our own lives. Do we place more weight on human traditions and systems than on the voice and leading of God? While it is important to respect and honor godly leadership and church practices, we must never let them take precedence over the genuine work of the Spirit. John was operating under God’s direct call, and he didn’t need to fit into the Pharisees’ expectations to be faithful to that calling.

Reflection Questions:

  1. How do you respond when God’s work challenges your expectations or goes beyond the norms you are comfortable with?
  2. Are there areas in your life where you need to let go of control and allow God to work in His way, even if it doesn’t make sense to you?

Prayer: Lord, we confess that we often want to control how You work, demanding explanations when things don’t fit our expectations. Help us to trust Your wisdom and to be open to Your ways, even when they challenge our understanding. Give us the humility to recognize Your authority and to be willing participants in Your work, no matter how unconventional it may seem. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

*edited from a sermon by Pastor Chris Cousine*

Sent with a Mission

Scripture: John 1:24 (ESV) – “Now they had been sent from the Pharisees.”

John 1:24 gives us an important detail about the delegation questioning John the Baptist: “Now they had been sent from the Pharisees.” The priests and Levites questioning John were not acting on their own; they were representatives of the Pharisees, a powerful and influential group within Jewish religious life. This background sets the stage for understanding the motivations and authority behind their inquiries.

The Pharisees were known for their strict adherence to the Law and their role as guardians of Jewish religious practices. They were deeply invested in maintaining spiritual order and ensuring that no one upset the established traditions. When they heard about John the Baptist—his unconventional ministry, his call to repentance, and his practice of baptizing Jews—they became alarmed. The Pharisees sent their representatives to confront John and to make sense of what was happening.

This verse highlights the seriousness with which the religious establishment viewed John’s ministry. He was seen as a potential threat, someone who needed to be scrutinized and, if necessary, contained. The Pharisees’ concern was understandable from a human perspective: John was disrupting the religious norms and drawing large crowds. But their rigid focus on religious protocol blinded them to the new and transformative work God was doing through John. The promised Messiah was about to arrive, and instead of being open to God’s unfolding plan, the Pharisees were more concerned with preserving their own authority and traditions.

Reflect on how this applies to us today. Are there times when we become so focused on our own routines and traditions that we miss the fresh work God is doing? The Pharisees, despite their extensive knowledge of Scripture, struggled to recognize God’s movement when it came in an unexpected form. We, too, can fall into the trap of prioritizing comfort and control over a willingness to follow where God leads.

This verse also reminds us that, like the Pharisees’ delegation, we are all “sent” in one way or another. The Pharisees sent these priests and Levites with a mission, though theirs was rooted in skepticism and suspicion. In contrast, as believers, we are sent by God with a mission of love, truth, and the hope of the gospel. How are we fulfilling our mission? Are we representing Christ well, or do we let our own agendas and biases interfere with the work He has called us to do?

Reflection Questions:

  1. Are there areas in your spiritual life where you are more focused on preserving tradition or control rather than being open to God’s new work?
  2. How can you be more intentional in fulfilling the mission God has given you, representing Him with grace and truth in the world?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for showing us through this passage the danger of becoming so focused on our own expectations that we miss what You are doing. Help us to have open hearts, ready to see and embrace Your work, even when it comes in unexpected ways. Send us out with a clear sense of purpose, that we may represent You faithfully and humbly. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

*edited from a sermon by Pastor Chris Cousine*

A Voice in the Wilderness

Scripture: John 1:23 (ESV) – “He said, ‘I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, “Make straight the way of the Lord,” as the prophet Isaiah said.'”

In John 1:23, John the Baptist responds to the relentless questioning of the religious leaders with a powerful declaration of his identity and purpose. “I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord,’ as the prophet Isaiah said.” With this response, John makes it clear that he is not interested in promoting himself. He is not the Christ, not Elijah, and not the Prophet. Instead, he defines himself solely by his mission: to prepare the way for the coming Messiah.

John’s answer is drawn directly from Isaiah 40:3, a prophetic passage that the religious leaders would have known well. Yet, the significance of John’s statement may have eluded them. John is not just any voice; he is the voice that Isaiah prophesied, heralding the arrival of the long-awaited Savior. His call to “make straight the way of the Lord” is a summons for spiritual preparation—a call to repentance, to remove the obstacles of sin and unbelief, and to be ready for the coming King.

Imagine the scene: a rugged, unorthodox figure standing in the wilderness, proclaiming a message that shakes the hearts of his listeners. John’s setting and appearance seem strange and even offensive to some, but his voice is undeniably powerful. He cries out not from the comfort of religious institutions but from the wilderness, a place symbolizing both spiritual barrenness and the need for God’s redemptive work. The wilderness is where God’s voice breaks through, where His call cannot be ignored.

John’s humility is profound. He does not draw attention to his own importance, even though Jesus Himself later calls him the greatest of prophets. Instead, he embraces his role as merely a voice—a messenger pointing to something far greater than himself. This challenges us to think about our own lives and witness. Are we content to be voices that point others to Jesus, or do we crave recognition and validation for ourselves? Our purpose, like John’s, is to prepare the way for the Lord, to call others to repentance and faith, and to make His path straight in our own hearts and in the world around us.

We, too, are called to be voices crying out in the wilderness of our culture, a world full of distractions and spiritual darkness. Our message must be clear: Jesus is coming, and hearts must be prepared. This call may make us uncomfortable or even unpopular, but it is a mission worth embracing. Like John, our focus must always be on Christ, not on ourselves.

Reflection Questions:

  1. How can you be a voice in the wilderness today, preparing the way for the Lord in your community or circle of influence?
  2. Are there areas in your life where you need to “make straight” the way of the Lord, removing obstacles of sin or distraction?

Prayer: Lord, thank You for the example of John the Baptist, who humbly embraced his role as a voice in the wilderness. Help us to be faithful messengers, pointing others to Jesus and calling for hearts to be prepared for His coming. Give us the courage to speak Your truth, even when it’s uncomfortable or challenging. May our lives clear the path for Your glory, making straight the way of the Lord. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

*edited from a sermon by Pastor Chris Cousine*

Giving an Account of Who We Are

Scripture: John 1:22 (ESV) – “So they said to him, ‘Who are you? We need to give an answer to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?'”

In John 1:22, the priests and Levites, having failed to categorize John the Baptist as the Messiah, Elijah, or the Prophet, grow frustrated. They demand a clear answer: “Who are you? We need to give an answer to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?” The urgency of their question reveals their need to report back to their authorities in Jerusalem, but it also exposes a deeper truth: our world is often uncomfortable with ambiguity and demands straightforward answers, especially when faced with something—or someone—who disrupts the status quo.

John’s ministry was anything but ordinary. It caused a stir, attracting crowds from Jerusalem and Judea, all curious to see this wild man proclaiming repentance in the wilderness. His bold actions challenged religious norms, and his message of preparation for the coming Messiah threatened established religious authority. The religious leaders were desperate to understand him, not out of genuine spiritual interest, but because his presence and message required an official explanation. Their need for an answer was less about understanding God’s work and more about maintaining order and control. Yet John’s focus remained steady, unconcerned with impressing or appeasing his interrogators.

This scene challenges us to reflect on how we respond when asked about our own faith and identity. When pressed to give an account of who we are and what we stand for, do we shrink back or soften our convictions to avoid confrontation? Or do we, like John, maintain a bold and clear witness, even when it might provoke discomfort or scrutiny? John knew he had to stay true to his calling, regardless of the expectations or demands of those around him. His identity was firmly rooted in God’s purpose for his life.

Notice the weight of the question: “What do you say about yourself?” This question is not unique to John the Baptist; it is one we all must answer. Our world constantly asks us to define ourselves, to declare our allegiances, and to state what we stand for. As Christians, our answer should not be centered on our achievements, our status, or even our personal struggles. Instead, it should always point back to Christ. We are not the Savior, but we are called to testify about Him, to declare His glory and prepare others to meet Him.

This verse also reminds us that our witness may be challenged. People will want to understand—or even discredit—what makes us different. We must be prepared to give a clear account of our faith, not to defend ourselves but to honor Christ. Are we ready to stand firm, even if it costs us comfort, reputation, or approval from others?

Reflection Questions:

  1. When asked about your faith or identity, are you prepared to give an answer that points to Jesus, even if it might bring discomfort or challenge from others?
  2. How can you better prepare your heart and mind to respond with grace and truth, as John did?

Prayer: Lord, we thank You for the example of John the Baptist, who gave a clear and unwavering testimony about who he was and what his mission was. Help us to be bold and steadfast in our own witness. When the world demands that we define ourselves, may our answer point to You, our Savior and Lord. Give us courage to speak the truth with humility and conviction, and may our lives reflect Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

*edited from a sermon by Pastor Chris Cousine*

The Question of Expectations

Scripture: John 1:21 (ESV) – “And they asked him, ‘What then? Are you Elijah?’ He said, ‘I am not.’ ‘Are you the Prophet?’ And he answered, ‘No.'”

In John 1:21, the priests and Levites press John the Baptist with further questions: “Are you Elijah?” and “Are you the Prophet?” These questions reveal the deep expectations and confusion surrounding John’s ministry. The religious leaders were trying to fit John into a mold, a prophetic figure they could understand and categorize based on their expectations of how God would work.

First, they asked, “Are you Elijah?” This question was rooted in the prophecy from Malachi 4:5, which stated that Elijah would return before the great and dreadful day of the Lord. John, dressed in garments reminiscent of the Old Testament prophet and proclaiming a message of repentance, certainly bore some resemblance to Elijah. Yet, John responded plainly, “I am not.” Though Jesus later identified John as fulfilling the role of Elijah in a symbolic sense (Matthew 11:14), John himself humbly denied being the literal Elijah. This speaks to a theme of God’s ways often confounding human expectations. The people were looking for a dramatic reappearance of the ancient prophet, but God sent John in the spirit and power of Elijah instead, a far subtler fulfillment of the prophecy.

Next, they asked, “Are you the Prophet?” referring to the promise in Deuteronomy 18:15, where Moses spoke of a prophet God would raise up among the people. Some at that time expected this prophet to be a distinct, end-times figure separate from the Messiah. But John again replied with a simple “No.” Here we see John’s remarkable self-awareness and integrity. He understood his role and was not swayed into claiming an identity or title that was not his. His calling was significant, but he recognized that it was not about him—it was about preparing the way for someone far greater.

This interaction challenges us to consider the expectations we place on God and His messengers. Like the religious leaders, we often have our own ideas of how God should work, who He should use, and what His plans should look like. We want God to fit our frameworks, but His ways are higher than ours. When He acts differently than we anticipate, we must be willing to adjust our understanding and trust His wisdom. How often do we miss what God is doing because it doesn’t align with our preconceived notions?

John’s steadfastness also teaches us to embrace our God-given roles without seeking glory or recognition beyond what He has assigned. In a world that values titles, status, and the praise of others, John’s humility is refreshing. He did not try to be more than he was called to be, even though he was performing a vital role in God’s redemptive plan. We, too, should be content with the work God has given us, understanding that the greatest honor we can have is to serve Him faithfully.

Reflection Questions:

  1. Are there areas in your life where you expect God to work in a certain way and struggle when He does not meet those expectations? How can you learn to trust His plans more fully?
  2. How does John’s humility and honesty about his role inspire you to embrace your God-given identity and purpose without seeking the spotlight?

Prayer: Lord, we confess that we often try to fit You and Your plans into our expectations. Help us to trust Your wisdom and timing, even when things do not make sense to us. Teach us to embrace our roles, however big or small, with humility and faithfulness. Like John the Baptist, may we be content to point others to Christ and serve You with a heart full of joy and obedience. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

*edited from a sermon by Pastor Chris Cousine*

A Clear Confession

Scripture: John 1:20 (ESV) – “He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, ‘I am not the Christ.'”

John 1:20 gives us a striking example of humility and clarity: “He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, ‘I am not the Christ.’” John the Baptist was experiencing an intense moment of scrutiny. The religious authorities from Jerusalem had come to interrogate him, to determine his identity and the source of his authority. Despite the popularity of his ministry and the attention he was receiving, John did not let pride or the desire for status distort his testimony. Instead, he emphatically declared that he was not the Messiah.

The repetition in this verse is significant. John “confessed, and did not deny, but confessed.” This threefold emphasis highlights the sincerity and intensity of his denial. He could have easily capitalized on the confusion and speculation surrounding his ministry, but he chose to be transparent and truthful. He knew who he was—and, importantly, who he was not. This kind of self-awareness and humility is something we should all strive to cultivate. It’s a reminder that our purpose, like John’s, is not to point to ourselves but to prepare the way for Jesus.

In a world obsessed with self-promotion, John’s example challenges us. We live in a culture that often celebrates personal achievement, influence, and the building of one’s own platform. But John the Baptist was different. Despite his success and the large crowds coming to hear him, he was not swayed by the temptation to make his ministry about himself. His mission was clear: to prepare the way for the coming of the Lord and to direct all glory to Christ. How often do we, even subconsciously, seek to elevate our own names rather than point others to Jesus?

John’s confession, “I am not the Christ,” is a call to humility for all of us. Sometimes we act as if we are the saviors of our situations, trying to control and fix everything on our own. But we need to remember that we are not the Christ. We are not the ultimate source of hope, healing, or salvation. Our role is to point others to the true Savior, the only One who can transform hearts and bring lasting peace.

This verse also serves as a reminder to be clear and unwavering in our confession of faith. Just as John did not hesitate or soften his message, we too must be bold and honest about who we are and what we believe. The world needs a clear and faithful testimony about Jesus Christ. Are we prepared to make that confession, even if it costs us something or challenges our pride?

Reflection Questions:

  1. Are there times when you are tempted to make your life or ministry about yourself rather than about Christ? How can you redirect your focus to Him?
  2. In what ways can you confess Christ more clearly and boldly in your daily life, ensuring that your testimony points to Jesus and not to your own accomplishments?

Prayer: Lord, thank You for the example of John the Baptist, who humbly and boldly declared that he was not the Christ. Help us to recognize that we are not the saviors of the world but witnesses to the One who is. Give us the grace to live humbly and to point others to Jesus in all that we do. Keep us from pride and self-promotion, and let our lives be a clear and unwavering testimony to Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

*edited from a sermon by Pastor Chris Cousine*

Who Are You Really?

Scripture: John 1:19 (ESV) – “And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, ‘Who are you?'”

When I read John 1:19, I’m reminded of moments from my own life when authority figures—parents, teachers, or even principals—asked me, “Who do you think you are?” Those weren’t genuine questions but rather rhetorical ways of putting me back in my place when I had overstepped my bounds. Similarly, in this passage, John the Baptist faces a delegation of priests and Levites sent by the Jewish leaders. They come with authority, demanding to know, “Who are you?” They are deeply unsettled by John’s actions and his influence on the people. It’s clear that something significant is unfolding, and they’re trying to understand what it means and what role John plays.

This confrontation with John the Baptist wasn’t just a casual inquiry. The religious leaders were concerned because John was doing things that seemed beyond his authority. He was baptizing Jews—a radical act that challenged the religious norms. Baptism was something reserved for Gentile converts, not for the chosen people of Israel who believed they were already clean. So, when John began calling everyone, including Jews, to repentance and baptizing them, the religious authorities were naturally uneasy.

John’s response to the question “Who are you?” is both humble and profound. He confesses boldly, “I am not the Christ.” He doesn’t pretend to be someone he’s not. He knows his role is to prepare the way for Jesus, not to draw attention to himself. This challenges us to consider how we respond to similar questions about our identity and purpose. Are we using our influence to point people to Christ, or are we focused on building up our own reputations? John’s humility and clear sense of calling are powerful examples for us. He didn’t use his ministry to elevate himself but to direct people to the One who truly matters.

We live in a world that often encourages self-promotion and the pursuit of personal glory. But the lesson here is that our testimony is not about us; it’s about Christ. When we share our stories, our focus should always be on Jesus, not on our achievements or even our struggles in isolation. Our testimonies must center on Him, the source of our hope and salvation.

Moreover, John’s readiness to give an answer for his actions is something we should learn from. Are we prepared to testify about Christ when the opportunity arises? The priests and Levites came with skepticism, but John did not falter. He was ready, clear, and unwavering. We, too, should be prepared to share the gospel and give a reason for the hope within us.

Reflection Questions:

  1. If someone were to ask you, “Who are you?” in a spiritual sense, would your answer clearly point to Christ?
  2. Are you prepared to share your faith boldly, like John the Baptist, or do you feel hesitant and unsure?

Prayer: Lord, thank You for the bold and humble witness of John the Baptist. Help us to learn from his example and to make our lives a testimony that points to Jesus. Give us the courage to speak clearly about our faith and the humility to keep the focus on Christ, not ourselves. Prepare us, Lord, to share Your message with confidence and conviction, and may all that we do bring glory to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

*edited from a sermon by Pastor Chris Cousine*

The Unveiling of God in Christ

Scripture: John 1:18 (ESV) – “No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father’s side, He has made Him known.”

John 1:18 declares a profound truth about the revelation of God: “No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father’s side, He has made Him known.” In this verse, we come to understand the unique role of Jesus Christ as the One who makes the invisible God known to us. It is only through Jesus, the eternal Son, that we can truly know and understand the Father.

God, in His essence, is spirit and dwells in unapproachable light. His holiness and glory are so overwhelming that no human being can see Him and live. Even Moses, the great prophet, was only permitted to see the back of God’s glory, for no one could behold His face and survive (Exodus 33:20-23). Yet, what humanity could never achieve by its own efforts—an intimate and clear understanding of God—has been graciously given to us in Jesus Christ.

Calvin emphasizes that Jesus, who is “at the Father’s side,” possesses an intimate and eternal relationship with the Father. He is not a mere messenger but God Himself, fully divine, and perfectly equipped to reveal the Father to us. In Christ, we see God’s character made visible. His love, grace, holiness, wisdom, and power are all on display in the person and work of Jesus. As Paul says in Colossians 1:15, Jesus is “the image of the invisible God.” He is God made knowable, relatable, and accessible to humanity.

This truth has immense implications for our faith and life. If we want to know who God is and what He is like, we need only look at Jesus. His teachings, His miracles, His compassion for sinners, and His willingness to suffer and die on our behalf—all of these reveal the heart of God. We no longer need to grope in the darkness, searching for an understanding of the divine. In Christ, we have a full and perfect revelation of God’s nature.

Moreover, Jesus’ role as the One who reveals God is deeply personal. He does not merely give us information about God; He invites us into a relationship with the Father. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, He has opened the way for us to become children of God, to approach the Father with confidence, and to experience the depths of His love.

Reflect on this incredible privilege: the God whom no one has ever seen has chosen to make Himself known to you through His Son. Are you seeking to know God more intimately? Are you spending time in His Word, learning from Jesus, and growing in your understanding of the Father’s heart?

Reflection Questions:

  1. How does knowing that Jesus perfectly reveals the Father change your understanding of who God is?
  2. In what ways can you draw closer to God, relying on Jesus to deepen your relationship with Him?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we are in awe that You, the invisible and holy God, have made Yourself known to us through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank You for revealing Your love, grace, and truth so perfectly in Him. Help us to know You more deeply and to live in the light of this revelation. May our hearts be transformed as we learn from Jesus and grow in our relationship with You. In His precious name, Amen.

*edited and modernized from John Calvin’s sermon on John 1:18*