Bible Verse
“This is the one who came by water and blood—Jesus Christ. He did not come by water only, but by water and blood.” – 1 John 5:6
Reflection
1 John 5:6 presents us with a profound mystery—one that beckons our hearts and minds into a deeper understanding of who Jesus Christ is and what He represents. The apostle John speaks of Jesus coming “by water and blood,” a statement rich with theological significance, yet deeply rooted in the practical life of faith.
To grasp the meaning of “by water and blood,” we must first consider the pivotal moments in the life of Christ. “Water” here often refers to Jesus’ baptism. It was a profound act of obedience and dedication, marking the commencement of His public ministry. As Jesus rose from the waters of the Jordan River, heaven opened, and the Holy Spirit descended upon Him like a dove. This event is not just historical; it embodies the profound truth of identification. Jesus, by entering those waters, stood in solidarity with humanity, identifying with our needs, our struggles, and our suffering.
The “blood,” however, points us toward the Cross, where Jesus shed His blood for our redemption. It symbolizes the ultimate act of love and sacrifice. The blood speaks of the new covenant, a binding relationship sealed not by human effort but by divine grace. Through His blood, Jesus invites us into a relationship free from the guilt and burden of sin, offering forgiveness and new life.
These two elements—water and blood—work together to reveal the full picture of Jesus’ mission and our salvation. Through water, we are reminded of the initiation of a journey, the step of faith to trust in God’s purposes. Through blood, we find the fulfillment of that journey, the assurance of redemption and the power of God’s unfailing love.
Understanding this dual coming of Christ prompts us to reflect on our own lives. It encourages us to embark on our journey of faith with the knowledge that we, too, are invited into that same identification. Baptism, in a spiritual sense, represents dying to self and rising anew in Christ. Every day becomes an opportunity to embrace the grace available to us through Jesus—His life, His example, and His sacrifice.
Let us, therefore, take heart in the times we find ourselves in the “water,” symbolizing new beginnings, learning, and growth. Let us also embrace those moments when we face trials, akin to the “blood,” understanding that through these experiences, God’s power is made perfect in our weakness. This verse reminds us that in both seasons, Jesus is with us, guiding, teaching, and transforming us into a fuller expression of His love and grace.
Closing Thought
As we reflect on being conjoined with Christ through water and blood, let us hold fast to this truth: our journeys are bathed in His presence and secured through His love. No matter where we find ourselves in the scope of life, Jesus stands ready to refresh us with His grace and uplift us with His sacrifice, leading us into a hopeful future anchored in His eternal promises.