the one hand, he is thinking of the Christian message which is the object of Christian proclamation and is heard by men; he himself is proclaiming it to his readers so that they may enjoy the blessings which come to those who receive it (v. 3). This message was preached by Jesus himself. On the other hand, Jesus himself can be described as the Word. The message takes concrete form in him. I may send a girl a message saying that I love her; I can also send her a costly ring which will be immediately
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