Expository Thoughts on the Gospel of John [Annotated, Updated]: A Commentary

by J.C. Ryle

We learn, firstly, that our Lord Jesus Christ is eternal. John tells us that “in the beginning was the Word.” He did not begin to exist when the heavens and the earth were made. Much less did He begin to exist when the Gospel was brought into the world. He had glory with the Father “before the world was” (John 17:5). He was existing when matter was first created and before time began. He was “before all things” (Colossians 1:17). He was from all eternity. We learn, secondly, that our Lord Jesus Christ is a Person distinct from God the Father, and yet one with Him.