In the beginning was the Word...

Why is Jesus called the "Word"?

Perhaps a better question may be this: What is the significance of the fact that Jesus is called the Word?

By no means can I attempt to answer this question in full here in a little blog entry, nor do I claim to understand every facet of such significance, but I call us each to consider this today.

Matthew Henry writes:
"The plainest reason why the Son of God is called the Word, seems to be, that as our words explain our minds to others, so was the Son of God sent in order to reveal his Father's mind to the world."

I think this is a common thought in response to such questions as raised above. I agree with Henry's statement. However, consider two passages from Isaiah that I believe to be Messianic statements concerning our Lord:

Isaiah 45.23: I have sworn by Myself, The word has gone forth from My mouth in righteousness, And will not turn back, That to Me every knee will bow, every tongue will swear allegiance.

Isaiah 55.11: So will My word be which goes forth from My mouth; It will not return to Me empty, Without accomplishing what I desire, And without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it.

These two passages take my breath away in light of John 1.1 and Revelation 19.13. I believe we must be mindful of these passages as we refer to Jesus as the Word. Perhaps the significance of referring to Jesus as "the Word" is not only that in Him we see the Father's mind revealed, but also because in Him, the Father's plan is assured.

Jesus is the Word sent forth from God in righteousness and it is certain that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord. (What a wonderful proof of the deity of Christ!) Jesus is the Word, which has gone forth from God and certainly did not return empty, but accomplished what He desired, and succeeded in purchasing a people with His blood!

Jesus is the Word...the promised One of God! Let us have full assurance and therefore let us gird ourselves up to serve the risen Lord. May God grant that we bring about His glory through the exaltation of His name as we proclaim the beautiful good news of the victory of Jesus!