John opened his gospel with a profound declaration connecting Jesus to Genesis 1. This sermon unfolds three essential characteristics of Jesus that establish the hope of the gospel:
There is hope in Jesus, the everlasting God (vv. 1-3).
The sermon explores Jesus's eternal nature and divine identity—not as a mere prophet or teacher, but as God Himself. It examines how Jesus, the Word, was with God and was God from the beginning, and how all things were created through Him. This section demonstrates why the gospel's assurance rests on Jesus's divinity and almighty power.
There is hope in Jesus, the light of truth (v. 4).
This section reveals Jesus as the light who makes God known and the source of all life. The manuscript traces God's promise from Genesis 3:15 through redemptive history, showing how Jesus is the fulfillment of the hope given to Eve, Abraham, David, and the prophets. It explores how Jesus entered a world darkened by sin to restore what was broken and reveal God's truth.
There is hope in Jesus, the victor over sin (v. 5).
The sermon concludes with the triumphant declaration that the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. This section unpacks how Jesus disrupts the lies of sin, exposes wickedness, and defeats the curse of death—establishing a victory whose outcome is already determined.
The included reflection questions help readers:
Understand why Jesus's eternal divinity is essential to the gospel's hope
Grasp why salvation is found in Jesus Christ alone
Recognize how the exposure of sin leads to repentance and victory
Reflect on how God has personally revealed and addressed sin in their lives
Apply the hope of Christ to their daily walk with God
Whether used for preaching, teaching, discipleship, or personal devotion, The Hope of Christ provides a biblically grounded, pastoral, and hope-filled exploration of John 1:1-5. It is an excellent resource for the Christmas/Advent season or any time when believers need to be reminded of the unshakable foundation of their faith in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Format: Digital PDF
Length: 24 pages
Page Size: 5.5 x 8.5 in.
Scripture Text: John 1:1-5
Series: Advent
Author: Ben Smith, Sr.
Usage: For personal study, teaching, or ministry preparation (see copyright permissions included in the document)
Download includes:
✔️ Printable PDF format
✔️ Ready-to-preach sermon outline
✔️ Fill-in-the-blank outline handout
✔️ Reflection questions for spiritual growth and group discussion
To listen to this and others sermons, visit https://www.bensmithsr.org/bensmith-allforthekingdom