Title: Jesus and Grace/John 1:17
Contents Jesus and Grace/John 1:17
In several places the Gospel of John establishes the relationship between the law of Moses and the grace of Jesus. This relationship is not antagonistic, but rather progressive and fulfilling. In other words, the lack of the law is to be filled and perfected by the grace of God through Jesus. This is clearly shown not only in today's text but also in 5:46 and 7:23.
Jesus Christ is the one who reveals the grace and truth of God. By grace, we mean the enormous benefits that are freely given. According to the Gospel of John, this grace is manifested in the incarnation. It is truly a grace to people that Jesus Christ came into this low and low world as equals with God. This would not have been possible without a tremendous sacrifice. When people have faith in Jesus Christ who has come in this way, they will receive the grace of salvation (see 3:16-18). The Gospel of John continues to preach and preach that there is no greater grace than this.
Furthermore, Jesus Christ is the truth of God. Jesus, who became the truth, came through His coming to this world, is the truth of God. Truth is the manifestation of the unchanging principles of God. Truth reveals the will of God better than anything else. In this respect, Jesus Christ is the one who fully reveals the will of God to the people of this world. So through Jesus Christ we can worship God in spirit and in truth (see 4:24-26). Because that Jesus Christ Himself is the truth revealed before us.
The above provides a reason why we should believe in Jesus Christ as the Son of God (see 20:30-31). Because Jesus Christ Himself is the grace and truth of God, we must believe in Him. The wonderful blessing of becoming God's people will come to us who hope and believe in Jesus Christ. We must become those who believe and preach the Son of God, Jesus Christ.