What is the context?
This is the opening verse of John 1:1–5, which describes the Word as already present at the beginning and as the One through whom everything is made. The verse holds together His relationship with God and His divine identity. (Read the surrounding passage)
Word translates λόγος, logos (LOH-goss), a Greek word used for a word or what someone says. The surrounding passage presents the Word as Someone who gives life, and verse 14 says He became flesh. This is the Son who makes the Father known. (Thayer, Greek 3056; John 1:3–4, 14–18)
How is this passage commonly understood?
Historic Christian readings understand the Word as the eternal Son, truly God while distinct from the Father. Catholic, Reformed and Methodist primary teaching shares that point; this verse is read alongside the account of the Son becoming human. (Catechism §§464–469; Westminster Confession 8.2; Methodist Articles I–II)
Where does this fit in God's plan?
The opening recalls the beginning of Genesis, where God creates and speaks light into darkness. The following verses identify the Word with the making of all things. Colossians likewise identifies the Son as the One through whom and for whom creation exists, then connects Him with reconciliation through the cross. This verse therefore introduces the Savior within the whole story of creation and redemption. (Genesis 1:1–5; John 1:2–5; Colossians 1:15–20)
What is our position?
Our study Prayer and Faith identifies the Word in John 1:1, 14 with Jesus Christ. It uses that identification when explaining the relationship between Jesus as the Word and His teaching about the bread of life.