The Word Became Speechless

In the latest episode of my podcast, I tackled the topic of the "Word of God." Most people instinctively equate this term with the Bible. However, I propose a different angle—what if the "Word of God" actually refers to Jesus? This idea stems from the Gospel of John: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." It’s a concept that shifts our understanding and re-orients our spiritual compass.

The implications of viewing Jesus as the "Word of God" rather than the Bible are significant. Seeing Jesus as the ultimate authority transforms how we interpret scripture and live out our faith. The Bible takes on a role that leads us to Jesus rather than being the end itself. It becomes a tool for encountering the Divine, not a rulebook to be followed rigidly.

One fascinating aspect I explored was the paradox of the "Word of God" becoming speechless. Imagine Jesus, the embodiment of God's word, starting his human journey without the ability to speak. It’s a powerful image that suggests that Jesus’ essence and presence are far more profound than mere words. Sometimes, we may feel God is speechless or unresponsive, particularly in moments of hardship or loss. Jesus' silent presence can still be felt in these times, reminding us that God’s essence remains unchanged even when words fail.

I also explored the imagery from Revelation, particularly the lion and the lamb. Many expect the messiah to be a powerful, conquering lion—an image of strength and dominance. However, Revelation chapter five reveals Jesus as a slaughtered lamb, emphasizing sacrificial love over brute strength. This "slaughtered lamb" is described as the only one strong enough to wield God's power, subverting our expectations and offering a model of humility and grace. Reflecting on this, I share a personal story about one of my tattoos symbolizing Jesus. 

A significant part of our spiritual journey involves grappling with discomfort and uncertainty. As theologian Walter Brueggemann suggests, there’s a tension between God's freedom and God’s accessibility. We often crave predictability and security in our faith, desiring clear application points and concrete answers. Yet, I am inclined to leave room for exploration and questioning. I believe in not making God too accessible or predictable, as it can limit God's freedom and reduce our relationship with the Divine to a transactional one.

I've faced criticism for this approach, particularly for not ending some of my sermons with clear, actionable steps. But I believe following God often raises more questions than answers. It challenges us to embrace ambiguity and invites us to a deeper exploration of our faith. This goes against the grain of traditional feel-good messages often found in church, but it also opens up a more authentic and transformative spiritual experience.

Ultimately, Jesus remains the "Word of God" even when he couldn’t speak as a baby. His presence and essence are constant, irrespective of our circumstances or understanding. Embracing this mystery allows us to appreciate and accept God's unexpected ways, fostering a faith that is resilient, dynamic, and full of wonder.

You can watch episode 28 in the video above or listen at the following link (or wherever you enjoy podcasts).