That . . . which we have looked at . . . (1 John 1:1)
Expanded Passage: 1 John 1:1-3
The Greek word that is translated as “looked at” is theasthai. It means to look at something with more than just a passing glance—to fix one’s eyes on someone or something until its significance is grasped. It is a steadfast, searching gaze that seeks to fully understand.
Will had seen the symbol of the cross most of his life. His parents had taken him to church since the first week he was born. At least once or twice a week he saw the large wooden cross that hung in the front of the sanctuary. However, it was not until he was twenty years old that he began to understand its significance. He shared with me, “For years I only saw the cross as a nice Christian decoration. Now I understand its significance. The cross is what Jesus died on. He died on it to take my punishment for the sins I committed so that I can be saved. It stands empty to show that death could not keep him down. Jesus Christ is alive, and one day, because I have accepted him as my Savior, I will live with him in heaven. I now understand.”
Unlike the disciples, we don’t have the privilege of looking at Jesus face-to-face. However, we can still grasp his significance through prayer and studying his Word.
Don’t let your familiarity with Jesus prevent you from seeing him.
Jim “Umfundisi” Lo is an ordained elder in The Wesleyan Church, serving in prayer ministries, as well as Global Partners. He previously served as a pastor, missionary, and campus intercessor for Indiana Wesleyan University. He and his wife, Roxene, have two sons and two granddaughters.
© 2025 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
