The Church of the Brethren affirms the traditional reading of John 1:1 as expressing the divinity of the Word (Logos). The Brethren recognize that this passage is foundational to Christian understanding of Jesus as divine and as the agent of creation.

However, the Brethren characteristically emphasize the incarnation and Jesus's humanity alongside his divinity. The Logos passage is understood as expressing the eternal nature of Jesus, but the Brethren focus attention on how this divine Word became flesh and lived among us, calling disciples to follow him in concrete discipleship and service. John 1:1 is true, but it must be balanced with John 1:14 and the gospel's emphasis on Jesus's life and teachings.