St. John 1:1

Here is a hypothetical conversation between a Jehovah’s witness (JW) and a Catholic (C) regarding John 1:1, which states, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”

JW: John 1:1 says, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was a god,” according to the New World Translation. We believe this shows a distinction between Jesus (the Word) and God, suggesting that Jesus is a divine being but not Almighty God.

C: I appreciate your perspective, but let’s delve deeper into this verse. John 1:1 is foundational for understanding the Christian belief in the divinity of Jesus Christ. When it says, “the Word was with God,” it indeed acknowledges a distinction in person. However, “the Word was God” emphasizes unity in essence.

JW: But how can the Word be with God and also be God? Doesn’t that imply two Gods?

C: That’s a great question. The key is understanding the concept of the Trinity, which isn’t about multiple gods but one God in three Divine Persons — Father, Son (Word), and Holy Spirit. Each Person is distinct yet of the same Essence. So, when John says the Word was with God and was God, he’s revealing both the personal distinction and the divine unity within God.

JW: I see your point, but doesn’t that interpretation conflict with the idea of monotheism?

C: It might seem that way, but actually, it deepens our understanding of monotheism. Christian monotheism is not about a solitary, singular person but a singular divine essence shared among three persons. This essence is fully God, not divided or ranked. John 1:1 introduces us to this mystery: the Word (Jesus) shares in the same divine essence as the Father. It’s not about numerical oneness but a oneness of nature and being.

JW: And what about the Word being a creation of God, as some translations suggest?

C: The original Greek text uses the term “was” (ἦν) to describe the Word’s existence in relation to God. This verb indicates eternal existence, not a point of creation. So, “the Word was God” speaks to an eternal reality, not a created status. This is supported by the rest of John 1, which says all things were made through the Word, further affirming His role as Creator, not creation.

JW: It’s a complex topic.

C: Indeed, it is. The mystery of the Trinity and the nature of Christ are profound truths that Christians have contemplated for centuries. It’s important to approach these mysteries with both faith and reason, seeking understanding through Scripture, tradition, and prayer. If you have more questions or wish to discuss further, I’d be happy to continue our conversation.

This script aims to present a respectful and simplified dialogue on the interpretation of John 1:1, highlighting key points of theological agreement and disagreement between Jehovah’s witnesses and Catholics.