In the Beginning Was the Word” – A Catholic Reflection on John 1:1–18

Light from the Beginning – The Word Becomes Flesh

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📖 Introduction: Eternity Meets Earth

John’s Gospel doesn’t begin in Bethlehem. It begins in eternity. Before the manger, before creation, before time itself—the Word was. In these first 18 verses, often called the Prologue, John draws back the veil to reveal the divine mystery behind everything: the Word (Greek: Logos) is both with God and is God.

This isn’t a theological thesis—it’s an invitation into awe. This is not just a new chapter in salvation history; it’s the hinge of all history. And it culminates in the stunning truth: the Word became flesh.

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🔍 Verse-by-Verse Catholic Commentary

1:1–2
“In the beginning was the Word…”

• This mirrors Genesis 1:1 intentionally. John is declaring that Jesus was not created—He existed before all things.

• “The Word was with God”—shows relationship within the Trinity.

• “The Word was God”—underscores divine identity. Jesus is not a god. He is God.

1:3
“All things came to be through Him…”

• Jesus is not a bystander in creation. He is the divine agent through whom the Father created the universe (cf. Colossians 1:16).

• Nothing exists apart from Him—meaning every creature bears His imprint.