John 1:1-5
This manuscript is done in the ESV version with the Fraktur style. Illuminated capitals are used to begin the three sections of this text. The first speaks of the Word (Jesus) in the beginning, which is represented with highlights of blue, seen in the sky and sea. The second speaks of the involvement of the Word in creation, which is represented with highlights of green, seen in the lush flora of creation. The third speaks of life and light coming from the Word, which is represented with highlights of red, seen in blood which is the life of the flesh. The Word is also shown at the bottom as the Alpha and Omega. Subtle references to the Word are seen with the cross in first occurrence of the Word and the phrase "Faithful and True - the Word of God" at the end of the first section, which refers to Revelation 19:11 and 13. John 5:1-5 is surrounded by John 1:12-13 which speaks of receiving and believing the Word to become children of God.
Story Behind the Art
In the fall of 2017 I was contacted by the folks at The Pocket Testament League. They wanted an illuminated manuscript of portions of John 1 to celebrate God's faithfulness in their 125 years of distributing God's Word in pocket-size booklets. I was thrilled to assist their ministry in this way. May our Lord continue to bless and use this ministry to impact lives for eternity! Check them out at ptl.org.
Translation
ESV
Text
John 1:1-5
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
2 He was in the beginning with God.
3 All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made.
4 In him was life,[a] and the life was the light of men.
5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
John 1:12-13
12 But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,
13 who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.