December 25

The Glory Of Christ

The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. — John 1:14 BSB

The glory of Christ is revealed as we consider the titles given to Him in the first chapter of John’s Gospel.

The Word (John 1:1). Just as our words reveal our thoughts and character, Jesus is the “speech” of the invisible God. He has declared and revealed God to us (John 14:9). The Psalmist said the heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky proclaims His handiwork to the ends of the earth, but in all creation, there is no presentation of God’s nature as profound as in Jesus.

The Creator (John 1:2-3). With the strongest language possible, John attributes the entire creation to Jesus. The nails that pierced His hands, the wood of the Cross, the thorns of His crown—all came into being through His creative word.

Life and Light (John 1:4). God was pleased to make His Son the reservoir of life. Eternal life is found in Him, and through Him, it is communicated to us by faith. His life brings light to the world.

The Messiah (John 1:10-11). “He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him.”

The Shekinah Glory (John 1:14). During His earthly life, there were moments when the veil of Jesus’ humanity seemed to part, allowing a glimpse of His radiant glory. This happened at the Transfiguration, and later in His Resurrection and Ascension. His glory was filled with grace and truth.

The Only-Begotten Son (John 1:12-14). We are God’s children by grace, but He is The Son, set apart from all others. Whatever the fullness of “Only-Begotten” means, it signifies an immeasurable difference between Christ and all other men. Yet, how wonderful that He is not ashamed to call us His brothers and sisters. Let us honor and glorify Him.

Prayer

Love infinite, love tender, love unsought;
Love changeless, love rejoicing, love victorious!
And this great love for us in boundless store;
God’s everlasting love! What more could we desire?