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And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. (
John 1:14)
It is made clear through scripture that Jesus preexisted prior to his incarnation. Jesus was involved in the Creation (John 1:1-3) and that He existed before all things were created (Colossians 1:16; John 17:5).
Although Jesus preexisted as the Son of God, scripture says that he took on flesh and was born in the likeness of men in human form (Philippians 2:7-8). Jesus was born of a virgin, a doctrine well attested in the New Testament and found deep in the beliefs of the very first Christians. Jesus' conception in Mary was completed through the Holy Spirit (Matthew 1:20).
Scripture tells us much about the Jesus’ life on earth.
Birth and Humanity Jesus was born in Bethlehem into a poor family where the mother, Mary, was a virgin. Both she and Joseph the “step-father” were of the line of David and the tribe of Judah, fulfilling prophecies from: Micah 5:2, Genesis 3:15, Isaiah 7:14, Genesis 49:10, Psalms 132:11, Jeremiah 23:5, and Isaiah 11:10.
Jesus had human needs to eat, drink, and sleep … and he showed human emotions of love, happiness, sadness, and anger… but not fear, hatred, or pride. (Hebrews 4:15)
Childhood and Familiy Jesus grew up in Nazareth, learned carpentry from his earthly father, and “grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man,” (Luke 2:52) and began a ministry throughout Israel at age 30.
His cousin was John the Baptist, who proclaimed the coming of the Messiah. (Luke 1:36)
James, who authored the Book of James, and was a leader of the early church was His half brother. (Galatians 1:19)
Jesus was misunderstood and alienated by His family and those of His hometown. (John 7:5)
Ministry When he was about thirty years of age (Luke 3:23) Jesus was baptized, signifying the beginning of his ministry. Jesus was then tempted, and remained obedient. Throughout his ministry he performed many miracles, healing the sick, raising the dead, and performing many "signs" (John 2:23). Jesus lived a sinless life, and completely obeyed the will of God. He was tempted by Satan in the wilderness for 40 days, at which time He fasted and prayed, and resisted temptation by quoting scripture. (Mark 1:13)
After ministering, healing, and teaching for three years, was crucified outside Jerusalem during the feast of Passover by the Romans at the demand of Jewish religious leaders.
The Significance of Christ's Humanity Living on earth for 33 years, Jesus experienced every temptation you and I face, which is why “the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from temptation” (2 Peter 2:9). He also showed us how to model our behavior. 1 Peter 2:21 says, “Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps.”
So, He knows what we go through. A god-savior could forgive sins, but would not be able to relate to the sinners. A man-savior would be able to relate to humanity, but would not have the authority or power to forgive sins or return from the dead. It was necessary that Jesus be both.
In doing so, he became “the New Adam.”
“For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all shall be made alive. So also it is written, ‘The first man, Adam, became a living soul.’ The last Adam became a life-giving spirit.” (1 Corinthians 15:22).
This article originally appeared on Christianity.com. For more faith-building resources, visit
Christianity.com. Originally published February 01, 2007.
