John 1:1 — "The Word Was God"

How denominations interpret the opening verse of John's Gospel regarding the nature and divinity of the Logos ('Word') and its relationship to God.

Overall consensus80/100

Non-denominational Evangelical

Non-denominational Evangelical

Evangelical

Affirms

Jesus as eternally divine Word; fully God in nature and being

Non-denominational evangelical churches affirm John 1:1 as a clear assertion of Jesus' eternal divinity. The opening of John's Gospel declares that the Word (Logos) was with God and was God, asserting both distinction from and equality with God. This verse is foundational to evangelical Christology.

Evangelical commentators consistently affirm that 'the Word was God' means the Logos possessed divine nature and attributes. This interpretation aligns with ancient councils and is presented as essential to orthodox Christianity. The verse supports evangelical theology's insistence on Christ's uniqueness as God incarnate.

Key Distinctions

Logos divinity:
existed eternally before incarnation
Incarnation:
Creation role:

Scripture References

Sources

  • D.A. Carson, 'Gospel of John' (PNTC)
  • NAE Statement of Faith