The Mystery of Christ: God-Man and Redeemer
Summary
### Summary
Greetings, everyone! Today, we delve into the profound mystery of the Trinity, focusing specifically on the Son of God, Jesus Christ. As we explore this topic, we will examine both the pre-incarnate and incarnate states of Christ. Understanding Jesus as the God-man is crucial because He embodies the fullness of God. He is the radiance and glory of God, and the only way to truly know God is through Him.
To begin, let's discuss the pre-incarnate Christ. Jesus, the second person of the Trinity, has always existed. He is not a created being but has eternally been with God the Father and God the Spirit. This is evident in scriptures like John 1, which states, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." Similarly, Genesis 1:26 uses the plural form, "Let us make man in our image," indicating the triune nature of God. Jesus Himself, in John 17:5, prays to the Father, asking to be glorified with the glory He had before the world was made, further affirming His eternal existence.
The pre-incarnate Christ interacted with humanity in various ways before taking on flesh. For instance, in Genesis 14 and Hebrews 7, Abraham's tithe to Melchizedek is seen as an act of worship to the pre-incarnate Christ. Jacob's wrestling with the angel in Genesis 32 and Joshua's encounter with the Lord of Hosts in Joshua 5 are also considered manifestations of the pre-incarnate Christ. These instances show that Jesus was actively involved in human history even before His incarnation.
Now, let's shift our focus to the incarnation of Christ. The incarnation is the event where Jesus took on human flesh, as described in John 1:14, "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us." This is the Christmas story, where God became man to dwell among us. Jesus, being fully God and fully man, experienced human frailties and temptations yet remained sinless. His incarnation was necessary for our redemption; without it, the blood of the Lamb would not have been shed, and salvation would not be possible.
Understanding Jesus as both the Son of God and the Son of Man is essential. He often referred to Himself as the Son of Man, emphasizing His humanity. Yet, He is also the Son of God, fully divine. This dual nature is known as the hypostatic union, where Jesus possesses both a divine and human nature. This union is crucial for our salvation because it means Jesus could take our place as a perfect sacrifice and also has the divine authority to forgive sins.
The Nicene Creed of 325 AD clarifies this by stating that Jesus is "consubstantial with the Father," meaning He shares the same divine essence. This creed was established to combat various heresies that questioned Jesus' divine and human natures. Understanding that Jesus is both fully God and fully man helps us grasp the depth of His sacrifice and the magnitude of His love for us.
In conclusion, Jesus Christ, the second person of the Trinity, has always existed and took on human flesh to redeem us. He is both the Son of God and the Son of Man, embodying the fullness of God and the perfection of humanity. As we reflect on these truths, may we grow in our understanding and appreciation of who Jesus is and what He has done for us.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Eternal Nature of Christ: Jesus, the second person of the Trinity, has always existed. He is not a created being but has eternally been with God the Father and God the Spirit. This is evident in scriptures like John 1 and Genesis 1:26, which highlight the triune nature of God. Understanding Jesus' eternal nature helps us grasp the depth of His divinity and His role in the Godhead. [03:53]
2. Pre-Incarnate Interactions: The pre-incarnate Christ interacted with humanity in various ways before taking on flesh. Instances like Abraham's tithe to Melchizedek, Jacob's wrestling with the angel, and Joshua's encounter with the Lord of Hosts are considered manifestations of the pre-incarnate Christ. These interactions show that Jesus was actively involved in human history even before His incarnation, revealing His eternal presence and divine mission. [08:40]
3. The Incarnation of Christ: The incarnation is the event where Jesus took on human flesh, as described in John 1:14. This is the Christmas story, where God became man to dwell among us. Jesus, being fully God and fully man, experienced human frailties and temptations yet remained sinless. His incarnation was necessary for our redemption; without it, the blood of the Lamb would not have been shed, and salvation would not be possible. [11:34]
4. Dual Nature of Christ: Understanding Jesus as both the Son of God and the Son of Man is essential. He often referred to Himself as the Son of Man, emphasizing His humanity. Yet, He is also the Son of God, fully divine. This dual nature, known as the hypostatic union, means Jesus could take our place as a perfect sacrifice and also has the divine authority to forgive sins. This union is crucial for our salvation. [16:35]
5. Consubstantial with the Father: The Nicene Creed of 325 AD clarifies that Jesus is "consubstantial with the Father," meaning He shares the same divine essence. This creed was established to combat various heresies that questioned Jesus' divine and human natures. Understanding that Jesus is both fully God and fully man helps us grasp the depth of His sacrifice and the magnitude of His love for us. [18:13]
### Youtube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[02:23] - Introduction to the Trinity
[03:53] - The Eternal Nature of Christ
[05:21] - Pre-Incarnate Christ
[08:40] - Pre-Incarnate Interactions
[11:34] - The Incarnation of Christ
[13:14] - Jesus as Emmanuel
[16:35] - Dual Nature of Christ
[18:13] - Consubstantial with the Father
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. John 1:1-3, 14 (NIV)
> "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made... The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."
2. Genesis 1:26 (NIV)
> "Then God said, 'Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.'"
3. John 17:5 (NIV)
> "And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began."
#### Observation Questions
1. According to John 1:1-3, what is the relationship between the Word and God? How does this passage describe the role of the Word in creation?
2. In Genesis 1:26, why does God use the plural form "Let us make man in our image"? What does this imply about the nature of God?
3. What does Jesus ask for in His prayer in John 17:5, and what does this request reveal about His existence before the world was created?
4. How does the sermon describe the significance of Jesus' pre-incarnate interactions with humanity, such as Abraham's tithe to Melchizedek and Jacob's wrestling with the angel? ([08:40])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does understanding Jesus as the eternal Word (John 1:1-3) deepen our comprehension of His divinity and role in the Trinity?
2. What theological implications arise from the use of the plural form in Genesis 1:26 regarding the nature of God and the Trinity?
3. In what ways does Jesus' prayer in John 17:5 affirm His divine nature and eternal existence? How does this shape our understanding of His mission on earth?
4. How do the pre-incarnate interactions of Christ with humanity, as described in the sermon, enhance our understanding of His eternal presence and divine mission? ([08:40])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflecting on John 1:14, how does the reality of the Word becoming flesh impact your daily life and relationship with Jesus? What specific actions can you take to acknowledge His presence in your life?
2. Considering the plural form used in Genesis 1:26, how does this understanding of the Trinity influence your view of community and relationships within the church? How can you foster a sense of unity and shared purpose in your small group?
3. Jesus prayed to be glorified with the glory He had before the world began (John 17:5). How can you incorporate a sense of eternal perspective in your prayers and daily decisions?
4. The sermon highlights various pre-incarnate interactions of Christ with humanity. How can recognizing Jesus' eternal involvement in human history encourage you in your faith journey? ([08:40])
5. The Nicene Creed states that Jesus is "consubstantial with the Father." How does this understanding of Jesus' divine essence affect your worship and devotion? What practical steps can you take to deepen your reverence for Christ? ([18:13])
6. Jesus is both the Son of God and the Son of Man, embodying the fullness of God and the perfection of humanity. How can this dual nature of Christ inspire you to live a life that reflects both divine purpose and human compassion? ([16:35])
7. Reflect on the significance of the incarnation for your personal salvation. How can you express gratitude for Jesus' sacrifice in your daily actions and interactions with others? ([11:34])
Devotional
Day 1: The Eternal Nature of Christ
Jesus, the second person of the Trinity, has always existed. He is not a created being but has eternally been with God the Father and God the Spirit. This is evident in scriptures like John 1 and Genesis 1:26, which highlight the triune nature of God. Understanding Jesus' eternal nature helps us grasp the depth of His divinity and His role in the Godhead. Jesus' eternal existence is further affirmed in John 17:5, where He prays to the Father, asking to be glorified with the glory He had before the world was made. This eternal nature of Christ underscores His divinity and His integral role in the Trinity.
Recognizing Jesus' eternal nature is crucial for our faith. It means that Jesus is not just a historical figure but the eternal God who has always been and will always be. This understanding deepens our appreciation of His divinity and His unchanging nature. As we reflect on this truth, we can find comfort in knowing that Jesus, our Savior, is the same yesterday, today, and forever. [03:53]
John 17:5 (ESV): "And now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed."
Reflection: How does understanding Jesus' eternal nature change the way you view His role in your life today?
Day 2: Pre-Incarnate Interactions
The pre-incarnate Christ interacted with humanity in various ways before taking on flesh. Instances like Abraham's tithe to Melchizedek, Jacob's wrestling with the angel, and Joshua's encounter with the Lord of Hosts are considered manifestations of the pre-incarnate Christ. These interactions show that Jesus was actively involved in human history even before His incarnation, revealing His eternal presence and divine mission. These encounters highlight that Jesus was not a passive observer but an active participant in God's plan for humanity.
These pre-incarnate interactions remind us that Jesus has always been involved in our world, guiding and interacting with His people. They reveal His eternal presence and His commitment to humanity's redemption. As we reflect on these interactions, we can see the continuity of God's plan and Jesus' central role in it. This understanding can deepen our faith and trust in Jesus, knowing that He has always been and will always be with us. [08:40]
Genesis 32:24-30 (ESV): "And Jacob was left alone. And a man wrestled with him until the breaking of the day. When the man saw that he did not prevail against Jacob, he touched his hip socket, and Jacob's hip was put out of joint as he wrestled with him. Then he said, 'Let me go, for the day has broken.' But Jacob said, 'I will not let you go unless you bless me.' And he said to him, 'What is your name?' And he said, 'Jacob.' Then he said, 'Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel, for you have striven with God and with men, and have prevailed.'"
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you felt God's presence in your life. How does knowing that Jesus has always been involved in human history impact your faith?
Day 3: The Incarnation of Christ
The incarnation is the event where Jesus took on human flesh, as described in John 1:14. This is the Christmas story, where God became man to dwell among us. Jesus, being fully God and fully man, experienced human frailties and temptations yet remained sinless. His incarnation was necessary for our redemption; without it, the blood of the Lamb would not have been shed, and salvation would not be possible. The incarnation is a profound mystery that reveals God's immense love for humanity, as He chose to become one of us to save us.
Understanding the incarnation helps us appreciate the depth of God's love and the lengths He went to redeem us. Jesus' willingness to take on human flesh and experience our struggles shows His empathy and compassion. As we reflect on the incarnation, we can find comfort in knowing that Jesus understands our weaknesses and is with us in our struggles. This understanding can strengthen our faith and encourage us to trust in His love and grace. [11:34]
Hebrews 2:14-15 (ESV): "Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery."
Reflection: How does the reality of Jesus' incarnation and His experience of human frailties impact your relationship with Him?
Day 4: Dual Nature of Christ
Understanding Jesus as both the Son of God and the Son of Man is essential. He often referred to Himself as the Son of Man, emphasizing His humanity. Yet, He is also the Son of God, fully divine. This dual nature, known as the hypostatic union, means Jesus could take our place as a perfect sacrifice and also has the divine authority to forgive sins. This union is crucial for our salvation because it means Jesus could fully represent humanity and fully embody God's divine nature.
The dual nature of Christ is a profound mystery that is central to our faith. It means that Jesus is both fully God and fully man, able to bridge the gap between humanity and God. This understanding helps us appreciate the depth of His sacrifice and the magnitude of His love for us. As we reflect on this truth, we can find assurance in knowing that Jesus is both our perfect representative and our divine Savior. [16:35]
Colossians 2:9-10 (ESV): "For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority."
Reflection: How does understanding Jesus' dual nature as both fully God and fully man deepen your appreciation of His sacrifice and love for you?
Day 5: Consubstantial with the Father
The Nicene Creed of 325 AD clarifies that Jesus is "consubstantial with the Father," meaning He shares the same divine essence. This creed was established to combat various heresies that questioned Jesus' divine and human natures. Understanding that Jesus is both fully God and fully man helps us grasp the depth of His sacrifice and the magnitude of His love for us. The affirmation of Jesus' consubstantiality with the Father underscores His divinity and His integral role in the Trinity.
Recognizing Jesus as consubstantial with the Father helps us understand the unity and equality within the Trinity. It means that Jesus is not a lesser being but fully God, sharing the same divine essence as the Father. This understanding deepens our appreciation of His divinity and His role in our salvation. As we reflect on this truth, we can find confidence in knowing that our Savior is fully God, with the power and authority to redeem and transform our lives. [18:13]
John 10:30-33 (ESV): "I and the Father are one." The Jews picked up stones again to stone him. Jesus answered them, "I have shown you many good works from the Father; for which of them are you going to stone me?" The Jews answered him, "It is not for a good work that we are going to stone you but for blasphemy, because you, being a man, make yourself God."
Reflection: How does understanding that Jesus is consubstantial with the Father impact your view of His authority and power in your life?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Jesus is the God-man. He is God in the flesh. If you want to know God, you look to Jesus. The fullness of God in him dwells. The radiance of God is fully in him. And the glory of God is reflected in him. And he is the only way to God, to know God. So Jesus is key to this Trinity." [03:53]
2. "God the Son has always existed. He is not created. Yes, he took on flesh at a specific time. But the God, the eternal God has always been, always is, and always will be. But Christ, it's called this hypostatic union, takes on two natures. But before the hypostatic, his nature is divine in his pre-incarnate state. There is no human form yet." [05:21]
3. "Jesus knew his human state. Jesus knew his frailty. Jesus knew he could die in this flesh. Jesus knew he was vulnerable to so much. You know, he could die. That means, you know, could he get sick? Yeah, you know, but Jesus had a way too of conquering his created world even in his flesh. He commanded the seas, he commanded storms, he commanded the demons, he had total command even in his flesh." [18:13]
4. "In Jesus, we see the very presence of God, God with us. We see the tabernacling or wrapping in flesh, dwelling among us, becoming one of us. We see in scriptures where it says he was tempted in every way just like you and me. He had flesh just like you and me, so he dwelt among us, but yet we observed his glory." [11:34]
5. "Jesus was not just a good human being. Jesus was not just a perfect human being. Jesus is God, the very essence of God. And this is what the Nicene Creed 325 AD did. I want to read it to you this one, the one part about this: We believe in one..." [14:51]
### Quotes for Members
1. "The pre-incarnate Christ has always existed with God the Father and God the Spirit. And so, what we have is the incarnation of taking on flesh didn't happen until later in history, in history and time, as we know, time, space, and matters, we know it. But Christ has always been." [07:07]
2. "Jesus is praying this, let me your glory be, may I share in your glory like I did before the world was ever created. Now the world was created and the sin happened. And then Jesus knew he was going to take on and be the atonement of our sin, the redeemer, the savior. He knew his role. So he had a role. He had a role to play within the Godhead, right?" [07:07]
3. "The pre-incarnate Christ, I think in Abraham's tithe in Genesis 14 and Hebrews 7, talks about Abraham coming and bringing a tithe, like it would be into God, like he was worshiping. Well, listen, and no human being gets our worship, no angelic being gets our worship, only God gets our worship." [08:40]
4. "Jesus is forever now connected with the flesh. Jesus is forever incarnate, so to speak. Now what he is now is he has his perfected resurrected body, the glorified body that you and I will receive someday. His flesh will never, he is the perfected flesh that God always intended to have us live without sin, that we would live forever, not be carnally, but we would live forever." [13:14]
5. "He took on the bad flesh to perfect it, right? To conquer sin, to defeat sin, to pay the penalty for our sin, and to conquer death, physical death, so that we could have life. And so that's why it's really important to understand that he took on flesh, dwelled among us. But we also have to understand this: Jesus was not just a good human being. Jesus was not just a perfect human being. Jesus is God, the very essence of God." [14:51]
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