Introduction
In the second part of his sermon series titled “Jesus,” Pastor Mensa Otabil, General Overseer of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC), delved into Jesus’ role as the Creator.
Focusing on John 1:1-3, Pastor Otabil expounded the profound significance of recognizing Jesus not just for what He does, but for who He is.
Through practical insights, he revealed that understanding Jesus as Creator transforms our relationship with Him.
Exposition on John 1:1-3
Pastor Otabil’s teaching centered on verse three of John 1: “All things were made through Him, and without Him, nothing was made that was made.”
He explained that while verse one identifies the Word as God, verse three demonstrates the Word’s creative work, affirming Jesus’ integral role in creation.
He noted the connection between John 1 and Genesis 1:1: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth,” highlighting that the Word (Jesus) is the Creator.
Drawing attention to the Greek root word ginomai (translated as “made”), Pastor Otabil unpacked three essential meanings:
1. To come into being – Jesus brought all things into existence, initiating life and creation.
2. To happen – Jesus fulfills God’s will, ensuring that all events align with divine purposes.
3. To become – Jesus enables growth and transformation, as exemplified in the parable of the mustard seed.
He encouraged believers to reframe John 1:3 with these insights: “All things came into being through Him, all things happened through Him, and all things became through Him.”
The Scope of Creation
Pastor Otabil explained that “all things” refers to the entirety of creation, both visible and invisible, past and present.
He stressed that Jesus not only created the universe’s vastness but also its intricate details. “From quarks and atoms to DNA and galaxies, God is in the details,” he affirmed, contrasting divine precision with human error.
Citing Colossians 1:16-17, he taught that everything exists through and for Jesus, who holds creation together: “All things consist in Him.”
Knowing Jesus Beyond His Acts
A recurring theme was the need to know Jesus for who He is, beyond His acts of provision or miracles.
“Christianity is not about having your needs met,” Pastor Otabil remarked, challenging believers who view faith primarily as a means to personal success.
He cited Jesus’ feeding of the 5,000 (John 6), noting how many sought Jesus for free food rather than true relationship: “People want what Jesus offers, but they don’t always want Him.”
Jesus: The Person Behind the Word
Pastor Otabil highlighted that Jesus, the Word, is not mere information but a person—eternal, relational, and sovereign.
He created out of nothing (ex nihilo), demonstrating unmatched power and authority. “The Word is not disembodied data; it’s a person: Jesus Christ,” he asserted.
This understanding calls believers to deeper worship and reverence for Jesus, the Creator.
Conclusion
In this compelling sermon, Pastor Otabil illuminated Jesus’ role as Creator, urging believers to prioritize knowing Him over receiving from Him.
His call to marvel at Jesus’ creative power and supreme authority serves as a reminder that Jesus, the Creator, is both the foundation and fulfillment of our faith.
Indeed, “All things were made through Him, and without Him, nothing was made that was made.”
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