The Incarnation Of Jesus Christ
Christians frequently speak about the doctrine of the Incarnation. Well what does this doctrine refer to, and why do Christians consider it so incredibly important?
The term incarnation is of Latin origin, and it means becoming in flesh. While the word incarnation is not contained within Scripture, the doctrine of the Incarnation certainly does convey scriptural truth. The Christian doctrine of the Incarnation teaches that the Eternal Word, the second person of the Trinity, without diminishing His deity took upon Himself a fully human nature. Specifically, this doctrine implies that a full and undiminished divine nature as well as a full and perfect human nature were united in the historical person of Jesus of Nazareth. According to the Bible, Jesus Christ is God the Son, in human flesh.
Since Jesus Christ is the center of Christian doctrine and truth, His identity is of surpassing importance. It follows therefore that the doctrine of the Incarnation which reveals His identity is the foundation on which all of Christian doctrine is built. This is clearly seen when you take some time to analyze the central tenets of the historic Christian faith. For example, God’s existence: without the Incarnation, talking about or knowing God personally is mere speculation. The Trinity: the other two members of the Trinity (Father and Holy Spirit) are only really understood and appreciated in light of the person and nature of Christ. Atonement: only Jesus Christ, who is the God-man, is able to reconcile a holy God with sinful humanity. Resurrection: a bodily resurrection which conquers death is only possible for the God-man. Justification: our state before God rests totally in our faith (personal trust) in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
The doctrine of the Incarnation touches and affects virtually every single area of Christian theology. Needless to say, if you are going to change or distort the identity of Christ, you are also going to destroy the very essence of the Christian faith.