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Study 12 of 49

The Incarnation

God joined Himself to the race He came to save

Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.

Synopsis

In Christ God did not merely visit humanity; He took it. The union of full divinity with real humanity in one Person is the ground of everything the gospel claims, for only as man could He die, and only as God could His death avail for all.

Key points

  • Christ is fully God and fully man in one undivided Person.
  • He took humanity permanently, not as a temporary disguise.
  • In assuming our nature He legally joined Himself to the whole race.

Key texts

  • John 1:1-14
  • Philippians 2:5-8
  • Hebrews 2:14-17
  • Galatians 4:4-5
  1. Comprehension

    1. What does 'the Word was made flesh' claim, and what does it not mean?

  2. Scripture

    2. Read Philippians 2:5-8. What did Christ empty Himself of?

  3. Doctrinal Clarity

    3. Why must the Saviour be both God and man?

  4. Contrast

    4. Contrast a Christ who only appeared human with the biblical Christ.

  5. Scripture

    5. Read Hebrews 2:14-17. Why did He take part of flesh and blood?

  6. Doctrinal Clarity

    6. In what sense did the incarnation join Christ legally to the human race?

  7. Application

    7. What comfort do you take from a High Priest who has been where you are?

  8. Application

    8. How does the permanence of Christ's humanity affect your view of heaven?