Lesson 9.The Source of Life
Jesus: The Way, the Truth, and the Life

Life, as we know it, has an origin—a source that animates and sustains all that exists. In Lesson 9, we focus our attention on Jesus Christ, who is not only the creator of physical life but also the source of eternal life.

John describes him as “the light that shines in the darkness” (John 1:4–5), bringing life and hope to every person. But the world faces a decision: Will we accept this light and live in the truth, or will we reject it and remain in darkness?

This lesson guides us through the central role of Jesus—from his mission to save humanity to the consequences of rejecting this saving source of life. It invites us to open our hearts to him and live in the fullness of his life.

9.1 In Him Was Life
Eternal Life in the Son: Jesus, the Source of Life

The commentary on John 1:4—”In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind”—opens a profound perspective on the divine nature of Christ and his central role as the source of life. John begins his Gospel with the clear statement that Jesus is not just a man but the divine Son, the creator and sustainer of all life. The life that is in him is not merely physical life but divine, eternal life—a life that exists in itself and is dependent on no one else.

This divine self-existence is confirmed in John 10:17–18, where Jesus reveals his authority over life and death: He can lay down his life voluntarily and take it up again. This power shows that his life is unique and surpasses the understanding of earthly existence. Additionally, John 5:21 emphasizes that Jesus can give life to whom he wills—a statement that underscores his divine sovereignty and grace.

The use of the term zoē (life) in the Gospel of John is particularly significant. John connects the life that is in Christ not only with creation but also with redemption. The connection of life and light in John 1:4–5 shows that this life has a transformative power: it brings not only physical existence but also enlightenment, guidance, and hope to a lost and dark world.

Throughout the Gospel, zoē is often described as eternal life, a central theme of Jesus’ message. This eternal life is accessible through faith in him (John 3:16) and is the greatest gift God has given to humanity. The Creator who gave life in Eden becomes the Redeemer who makes life accessible to all who believe in him.

In summary, John 1:4 shows that Jesus is not only the source of all life but also the source of redemption. This life is light—a light that shines into darkness and offers hope for eternal fellowship with God.

Why Did Jesus Come to This Earth? (John 1:29; 3:16; 6:40; 10:10; 12:27)

The central reason why Jesus came to this earth is vividly portrayed in the mentioned verses from the Gospel of John: He came to reconcile the world with God, bring eternal life, and reveal the Father to humanity. Each of these aspects highlights an important part of his mission.

1. Redemption Through His Death (John 1:29; 3:14–16)

In John 1:29, Jesus is referred to by John the Baptist as “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” This clearly indicates that Jesus came to die as a sacrifice for humanity. His comparison to the elevated serpent in the wilderness (John 3:14–15) shows that he takes the place of the sinner. Just as the Israelites were healed by believing in God’s provided salvation (the bronze serpent), we are saved from sin and granted eternal life through faith in Jesus. His death is vicarious: our punishment was placed upon him so that we could be free.

2. Eternal Life in Abundance (John 10:10; 6:40)

Jesus describes his mission as bringing life—not just physical but eternal life in abundance. John 10:10 emphasizes that he came so that we might have “life to the full.” This life is not limited to the present but includes the promise of eternal fellowship with God (John 6:40). By connecting us with God, Jesus makes us heirs to a life that is neither limited by death nor time.

3. Revelation of the Father (John 1:18; 12:27)

Jesus also came to reveal the character and nature of God the Father. In John 1:18, it states that no one has seen God, but Jesus, the only Son, has made him known. His life, words, and actions demonstrate who God truly is—a loving, forgiving, and gracious Father. Especially in the context of John 12:27, it becomes clear that Jesus’ obedience up to the cross not only enables our salvation but also reveals the glory and love of God.

4. New Birth and Adoption (John 1:12–13)

Jesus came to give us a new identity—as children of God. This new birth does not occur through human effort but through divine initiative. Those who receive Jesus become part of God’s family, empowered to be children of God, experiencing a profound transformation in their lives.

Summary: Jesus came to earth to save a lost humanity, grant us eternal life, and reveal God’s love and character. His mission demonstrates God’s incredible grace and dedication: he took our place, bore our guilt, and opened the way to a fulfilling and eternal life in fellowship with Him. His words and actions call us to accept him, believe in him, and become part of God’s wonderful plan.

What Can We Learn About the Father’s Character from the Life of Jesus? Why Is This Revelation Good News?

The life of Jesus uniquely and tangibly reveals the character of the Father. Through his words, actions, and nature, it becomes clear who God is and how He relates to people. This revelation is excellent news because it presents the true image of God—a figure who offers us hope, love, and salvation.

1. The Father is Full of Love and Compassion

Jesus embodies God’s love through his care for the outcasts, the sick, and sinners. In encounters like with the adulterous woman (John 8:1–11) or the tax collector Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1–10), Jesus shows that God’s love is unconditional and reaches everyone. This love does not depend on moral perfection or performance—a radically comforting message for a flawed and lost humanity.

Why Good News? We learn that God accepts us as we are and actively seeks to save us. His love includes everyone.

2. The Father is Gracious and Forgiving

Jesus demonstrates God’s willingness to forgive, especially through the parable of the lost son (Luke 15:11–32). The father in the story represents God, who is ready to embrace the repentant sinner without reproach. Even on the cross, Jesus forgives his tormentors (Luke 23:34)—an example of God’s boundless grace.

Why Good News? This revelation assures us that no sin is too great to be forgiven by God. It frees us from guilt and grants us peace.

3. The Father is Merciful and Caring

Jesus cares for the physical and spiritual needs of people. He feeds the hungry (John 6:1–14), heals the sick (Mark 1:40–42), and encourages the desperate (Matthew 11:28–30). Through these acts, Jesus shows that the Father is concerned with every aspect of our lives and provides for us.

Why Good News? We can trust that God does not leave us alone but accompanies and strengthens us in our struggles.

4. The Father is Just and Truthful

Jesus stands for truth, even when it is uncomfortable. He clearly rejects hypocrisy and injustice (e.g., John 2:13–16, the cleansing of the temple). However, his justice is always paired with grace—he does not judge to condemn but to lead to repentance.

Why Good News? God is just and faithful. He does not allow injustice to go unpunished, but he offers everyone the opportunity for forgiveness and transformation.

5. The Father is Sacrificial and Devoted

Through Jesus’ life and death, the selfless love of the Father is evident. John 3:16 summarizes it well: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son.” Jesus’ death on the cross is the ultimate sign of how far God is willing to go to save us.

Why Good News? God loves us so much that he sacrifices the highest to reconcile us with Himself. This gives us the assurance that we are infinitely valuable to Him.

Conclusion: Why Is This Revelation Good News?

Jesus’ life reveals that God is not a distant, angry judge but a loving, merciful Father who seeks us, forgives us, and accepts us. This truth is a source of hope and joy: we are not alone, not lost, and not unwanted. In God, we find salvation, peace, and meaning for our lives.

The revelation of the Father through Jesus means: God is for us. And that is the best news there can be.

The Revelation That “In Him [Jesus] Was Life” (John 1:4) and the Deep Understanding of God’s Character Have Immediate Significance for Our Daily Life and Faith. These Biblical Truths Touch Us in Several Areas:

1. Our Trust in God’s Care and Guidance

• Biblical Basis: Jesus reveals that God is merciful and caring (Matthew 11:28–30; John 6:35).

• Everyday Application: In times of uncertainty or stress, we can trust that God sustains our lives and guides us. The fact that life itself is in Christ shows that he gives us not only physical but also spiritual life. We can lay our worries at his feet because he cares for our needs.

• Faith in Daily Life: Through prayer, Bible reading, and fellowship with other believers, we can learn to consciously rely on God’s provision and plan.

2. A New Perspective on Suffering and Death

• Biblical Basis: Jesus demonstrated his power over life and death through his death and resurrection (John 10:17–18).

• Everyday Application: In the face of loss, illness, or death, faith in Jesus gives us hope. Knowing he is the source of eternal life assures us that our lives do not end with this earthly existence. This hope provides comfort and courage to endure difficult times.

• Faith in Daily Life: We can focus on living in community with God, who accompanies us through all challenges and promises eternal life.

3. Light in the Darkness

• Biblical Basis: Life in Jesus is also light that dispels darkness (John 1:4–5).

• Everyday Application: In moments of confusion, moral disorientation, or personal darkness, Jesus offers clear guidance. He shows us how to live a life of righteousness, love, and truth.

• Faith in Daily Life: Through Jesus, we can align our lives with his teachings and example, learning how to make decisions, resolve conflicts, and shape our lives.

4. A Fulfilled and Meaningful Life

• Biblical Basis: Jesus says he came so that we might have “life to the full” (John 10:10).

• Everyday Application: A life with Christ is not empty or meaningless. His life in us gives us joy, hope, and a clear purpose. It encourages us to use our gifts and talents for the good of others and to honor God.

• Faith in Daily Life: We can shape our relationships, work, and leisure to reflect God’s love, thereby finding deeper fulfillment.

5. A Life of Grace and Forgiveness

• Biblical Basis: Jesus shows that God is gracious and forgiving (Luke 15:11–32; John 8:11).

• Everyday Application: Because we have received God’s grace and forgiveness, we can also forgive others. This attitude frees us from bitterness and conflict, allowing us to live in peace with ourselves and others.

• Faith in Daily Life: By aligning ourselves with Jesus, we learn to practice patience, compassion, and forgiveness in our daily interactions.

6. Mission and Testimony

• Biblical Basis: Jesus is the light and life he wants to share with the whole world (John 1:4–5; Matthew 28:19–20).

• Everyday Application: As followers of Jesus, we are called to carry his light and life into the world. Through our behavior, words, and actions, we can bring others closer to God’s love.

• Faith in Daily Life: Whether through simple acts of kindness, praying for others, or conversations about our faith, our lives can be a living testimony for Christ.

Conclusion: Jesus, Life in Everyday Life

The fact that Jesus is the source of life gives us not only hope for eternity but also guidance, peace, and joy in the here and now. His light illuminates every aspect of our lives and gives us the strength to live a life in abundance. Our daily lives become vibrant, meaningful, and supported by the assurance that we have eternal life and unwavering hope in him.

In Jesus, we find the true life—a life full of hope, light, and eternal significance.

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