This blog post explores the significance of Jesus Christ becoming fully human, addressing common misconceptions about God’s presence in a sinful world, and emphasizing His role as a merciful high priest who sympathizes with our weaknesses.
Welcome to a reflection on the profound mystery of the Incarnation, where we explore the significance of Jesus Christ becoming fully human. This sermon, delivered at St John's Lutheran Church, delves into the epistle lesson from Hebrews 2:14-18, focusing on verses 17 and 18, which highlight Jesus' role as a merciful and faithful high priest.
One of the most challenging concepts for many is the idea that Jesus Christ is both fully God and fully man. This duality raises questions about how the Almighty God can inhabit a human body. The enormity of God, who created the universe, fitting into a human form can be baffling. Additionally, there is a common assumption that the world, filled with sin and depravity, is unworthy of God's presence. This leads to a desire to keep God at a distance, fearing His judgment on our sinful nature.
This reluctance to accept God’s closeness is not a new phenomenon. It echoes the ancient heresy of Gnosticism, which posited that Jesus did not truly become human but instead imparted secret knowledge to a select few. This belief reflects a broader human tendency to view the physical world as inferior or evil, leading to a desire to transcend the flesh through various means, including drug use and other spiritual practices.
In contemporary culture, there is a growing trend of seeking spiritual experiences through substances like hallucinogens. Figures like Joe Rogan promote the idea that such experiences can lead to encounters with God. However, these encounters often lead individuals away from the church and into confusion, as they may be influenced by demonic forces rather than divine truth. True encounters with God are found in His Word and sacraments, not through altered states of consciousness.
Despite our inclination to indulge our fleshly desires, we paradoxically want to keep God at arm's length when it comes to our spiritual lives. This is because if God were truly present among us, He would witness our sins and shortcomings. Yet, the purpose of Christ's incarnation was not to condemn us but to save us. As stated in John 3:16, God sent His Son not to judge the world but to redeem it.
The writer of Hebrews emphasizes that Jesus became like us in every respect, except for sin. This means He understands our struggles and temptations. He witnessed human suffering, injustice, and sin firsthand, which allows Him to sympathize with our weaknesses. Jesus does not stand apart from us; instead, He intercedes for us as our high priest, offering the perfect sacrifice for our sins.
When we sin, our instinct may be to hide from God, fearing His judgment. However, we must remember that Jesus came to offer forgiveness and grace. He does not condemn us; rather, He invites us to come to Him in repentance. The mercy of God is such that He welcomes us back, covering our sins with His grace.
It is crucial to understand that being human is not synonymous with being sinful. While we are born into a sinful nature, this was not God's original design. Jesus, though fully human, was without sin. In heaven, we will also be fully human, free from sin and its consequences, embodying the perfection God intended.
In conclusion, we should not fear the Incarnate God, Jesus Christ. He became a man not to condemn us but to save us from sin and death. Through His sacrifice, He has earned our forgiveness and eternal life. This salvation is a gift received by faith, guaranteed by the cost of His shed blood. Let us rejoice in the truth that God is with us, understanding our struggles and offering us grace and mercy.
If you found this message meaningful, consider visiting St John's Lutheran Church for services or exploring more on our website. May God bless you as you reflect on the incredible gift of the Incarnation.
