KNOWING CHRIST AS THE WORD MADE FLESH OR KNOWING CHRIST AS MAN
A Sermon by Wayne Camp
SERIES TEXT: Philippians 3:10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death.
TEXT: John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. (KJV)
1 Timothy 3:16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. (KJV)
1 Timothy 2:5 For [there is] one God, and one mediator between God and men, the MAN Christ Jesus. (KJV)
INTRO: Which would be worse, to deny the Deity of Jesus Christ or to deny his real humanity? Neither would be worse than the other for to deny either means eternal damnation. Those who deny his deity are guilty of not believing the record of God’s Son. Those who deny his perfect and complete humanity are guilty of the same crime. Furthermore, we learn from John that it is the spirit of anti-christ which causes anyone to deny that Christ is come in the flesh.
This message is Knowing Christ As The Word Made Flesh Or Knowing Christ As Man.
I. TO KNOW CHRIST MEANS TO KNOW HIM AS ONE WHO WAS DEFINITELY MADE FLESH
A. He was no mere phantasm or theophany; he did literally become flesh as our first text declares. Jn. 1:14
B. God had sworn to David he would be made flesh. Acts 2:30 Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne.
C. Paul confirms that Jesus was made flesh of the seed of David. Romans 1:3 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh.
D. Concerning the flesh, Jesus descended from the Jews. Romans 9:5 Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.
E. In the light of Paul's bold statement to Timothy, there can be no doubt that the word was made flesh. 1 Timothy 3:16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
F. Those whom he would redeem were flesh and blood, therefore he took on him a body of flesh and blood so that he might be as near a kinsman as possible. Hebrews 2:14 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil.
1. He must be made like us in every way except for sin. Hebrews 2:17 Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.
2., He must be all of one with us if he would be our redeemer. Hebrews 2:11 For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren.
G. If he would be our great High Priest he must be taken from among us and be identified with us, therefore he did not take on him the nature of angels but the human nature of man. Hebrews 2:16 For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham.
H. I will deal with the necessity of his being made man another message but felt it should be mentioned in this message if we are to fully appreciate the fact that he was made flesh.
I. I would remind you again of the importance of this matter in the light of John's declaration that it is the spirit of antichrist that causes one to deny that Christ is come in the flesh. 1 John 4:1-3 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. 2 John 7 For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.
II. TO KNOW CHRIST WE MUST KNOW SOMEWHAT OF THE NATURE OF HIS BEING MADE FLESH
A. We must know that he became a man and man is flesh. Philippians 2:5-7 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.
B. We must know that the expression, the word was made flesh, means more than merely the meat that was on his bones. Jn. 1:14
1. Francis Turretin said, "Here the word 'flesh' is not to be taken strictly for one part of man, but broadly and synecdochically for the whole human nature, including the soul with the flesh."
2. A. W. Pink wrote, "The plain meaning of these words is, that our Divine Savior took upon Him human nature. He became a real Man, yet a sinless, perfect man.
3. Hengstenberg wrote, "Flesh means all that man is . . . there can be no doubt that man is here designated as flesh to call attention to the depth of condescension in the Logos."
4. Thomas Whitelaw wrote that the word flesh in this verse means "human nature in its totality, as consisting of a true body and a reasonable soul."
5. Whitelaw quotes another who says, "The word sarx describes the whole man, as he consists of body and soul, as a sensuous, earthly being, in antithesis to God."
6. John Gill said, "Flesh here signifies, not a part of the body, nor the whole body only, but the whole human nature, consisting of a true body, and a reasonable soul . . . it was a real human nature, and not a phantom, or appearance."
7. Matthew Henry wrote, "This intimates . . . that he was really and truly man."
8. It refers to his entire humanity. John 3:6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
9. His being made flesh obviously means he took upon himself a complete human nature; as truly man as is any other man.
D. We must know that he was formed in his mother's womb just as we were.
1. He was not created in the manner that Adam was, that would not have made him our near kinsman.
2. He brought no element of his human nature and being from heaven, he was given his complete human nature in the womb of Mary.
3. He was miraculously conceived but naturally formed in the womb of Mary. Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. Matthew 1:16 And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ. Matthew 1:20-23 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Luke 1:31-35 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.
4. He is called the seed of the woman. Genesis 3:15 And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.
5. He was made of a woman. Galatians 4:4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law.
6. He is called the fruit of the womb. Luke 1:42 And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.
7. He was born in the same manner that all children are born. Psalm 22:9-10 But thou art he that took me out of the womb: thou didst make me hope when I was upon my mother's breasts. I was cast upon thee from the womb: thou art my God from my mother's belly.
E. We must know that he grew up and developed physically as any other child would develop.
1. He nursed his mother's breasts for nourishment just as any other child. Psalm 22:9 But thou art he that took me out of the womb: thou didst make me hope when I was upon my mother's breasts.
2. He developed in stature as does any other child and young man. Luke 2:52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
F. We must know that he developed mentally as do other children. Luke 2:52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
G. We must know that his flesh was the same as our flesh.
1. He was a man and all men are of the same kind of flesh. 1 Corinthians 15:39 All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds.
2. He had the same kind of blood as we have for he was a man and all men have the same kind of blood. Acts 17:26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation.
3. Those whom he would redeem are partakers of flesh and blood therefore he took the same flesh and blood as they. Hebrews 2:14 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil.
G. We must know wherein the human nature of Christ differs from ours.
1. It was conceived miraculously. Luke 1:35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. Matthew 1:20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
2. It was especially prepared by God. Hebrews 10:5 Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me.
3. It was untainted by sin. Hebrews 4:15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
4. He took on the likeness of sinful flesh but not the sinfulness of the fleshly nature. Romans 8:3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh.
5. For him to take on our sins, God had to make him sin. 2 Corinthians 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
III. TO KNOW CHRIST WE MUST KNOW SOMETHING OF THAT WHICH HE ACCOMPLISHED BY BEING MADE FLESH
A. He gave us the true bread from heaven which we must eat by faith if we are to have eternal life. John 6:51-56 I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, How can this man give us his flesh to eat? Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him.
B. He made it possible that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us in spite of the weakness of our flesh. Romans 8:3-4 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
C. He abolished the enmity of the law by keeping and fulfilling it in a human nature like ours. Ephesians 2:15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace.
D. He did every thing necessary to present us holy, unblamable, and unreprovable in his sight. Colossians 1:21-22 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblamable and unreproveable in his sight.
E. He revealed God in his flesh. 1 Timothy 3:16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
F. His glory was the glory of the only begotten of the Father. John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
G. In him dwelt all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. Colossians 2:9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.
H. He destroyed the power of Satan and delivered his people from the fear of death. Hebrews 2:14 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil.
I. He has opened up the way for us to enter into heaven. Hebrews 10:19-20 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh.
J. He suffered for our sins and brought us to God. 1 Peter 3:18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit. 1 Peter 4:1 Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin.
K. He made peace for us through his blood. Colossians 1:20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be] things in earth, or things in heaven.
CONC: In another message we will consider the absolute necessity of the incarnation, the necessity of the Word being made flesh. In this message I have tried to concentrate primarily on the fact of his being made flesh, on knowing him as man, and on the nature of that humanity which he assumed. It is essential that we know him as God for he is God of very God. It is equally, and I did say equally essential that we know him as man. For to deny his humanity is a mortal sin and the spirit of antichrist. It is a fundamental of true faith in Jesus Christ.
I have said many times that if you do not believe in the deity of Jesus Christ you cannot be saved. It is equally true that if you do not believe in the humanity of Christ you cannot be saved. It was in the flesh that he was put to death. It was his flesh and blood that he gave for our eternal life. To deny that is to deny the very bread and drink of eternal life.
Last updated on Sunday, September 10, 2006
A Sermon By Wayne Camp
SERIES TEXT: Philippians 3:10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death.
TEXT: Jn. 6:51
INTRO: In the series thus far we have considered the fact that Jesus Christ is truly God and truly and really man. We saw the importance, yea, the absolute necessity of knowing him both as God and man. In this message we will consider the necessity of the deity of our Lord Jesus Christ.
There are two great mysteries that I have repeatedly meditated upon in the preparation of these messages. One it the Godhead. I do not understand, though I believe it whole-heartedly, how three Persons, Father, Word and Spirit can yet be One God. Three co-equal, co-eternal, co-existent Persons, yet one God, one Godhead. The second mystery is that which has to do with the hypostatic union of two separate and complete natures united in one Person, the Lord Jesus Christ. This one person is so truly God it is as though he were not man, and so truly man it is as though he were not God. A hypostatic union. He is not part God and part man. He is God. He is man.
But, let me assure you, this is what his work in the covenant of grace required. If he would die he must be man, because God cannot die. If that death would merit eternal life for an innumerable multitude he must be God, for not even a sinless man could merit eternal life for one sinner. If he would offer a sacrifice for sins as our great high priest, he must have something to offer, therefore he took flesh and blood, a body prepared by God; if that sacrifice would so satisfy God that every charge against us would be settled forever, he must be God for the merits of that sacrifice to be so infinite as to satisfy God for every sin of an innumerable multitude.
Two great mysteriesCthree persons who are one God and one Person who has two complete natures.
A. Nothing could happen to him that was contrary to what was declared in the Scriptures.
B. Nothing could fail to happen to him if it was declared in Scripture. Luke 24:44 . . .all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.
C. The veracity and integrity of God's word could not be diminished one bit and the truth mean anything.
D. The deity of Christ was declared in Scripture long before Christ was born.
1. Consider Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
2. Consider Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
3. See the fulfillment of this in Matthew 1:18-23 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
II. TO KNOW CHRIST WE NEED TO KNOW THAT THE THINGS HE ACCOMPLISHED BY BEING MADE FLESH NECESSITATED HIS DEITY
A. He gave us the true bread from heaven which we must eat by faith if we are to have eternal life. John 6:51-56 I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, How can this man give us his flesh to eat? Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him.
1. The flesh and blood which he would give must have sufficient worth and merit to justify God giving eternal life on the grounds of it.
2. No human person, even a sinless man as Adam before the fall or the sinless man Jesus, could give his flesh and blood for the life of the world unless there is something that is united with that flesh and blood that makes it of infinite dignity, merit and worth.
3. It is the hypostatic union of the Divine nature with the human nature that lends it the infinite merit required for the giving of eternal life.
4. Even though we have seen that he received his human nature from being formed in the womb of Mary; he shows its infinite worth and merit, its power to give everlasting life, its power to cause us to never hunger or thirst again by calling it the bread from heaven. John 6:51 I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.
5. If his human nature, his flesh and blood would be the bread and drink of eternal life, they must be so vitally united with the Divine nature as to be able to call them bread from heaven.
B. He made it possible that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us in spite of the weakness of our flesh. Romans 8:3-4 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
1. If we are to enter into heaven we must have a righteousness equal to that of God in its purity.
2. The law was weak through the flesh and no man could meet its demands.
3. Someone in the flesh must satisfy that holy law if that required righteousness is ever fulfilled.
4. The man Christ Jesus was made in our likeness, the likeness of sinful flesh.
5. That man, Jesus, must also be God the Son if his obedience would be of such infinite merit that it could be imputed to the account of all that innumerable multitude for whom he was obedient and for whom he paid the penalty of the law.
6. He abolished the enmity of the law by keeping and fulfilling it in a human nature like ours. Ephesians 2:15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace.
C. He did every thing necessary to present us holy, unblamable, and unreprovable in his sight. Colossians 1:21-22 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblamable and unreproveable in his sight.
1. I would remind you that this was accomplished in the body of his flesh through death.
2. I would also remind you that God must be in him if that grand work of reconciliation would be accomplished. 2 Corinthians 5:19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.
D. He revealed God in his flesh. 1 Timothy 3:16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
1. His glory was the glory of the only begotten of the Father. John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
2. In him dwelt all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. Colossians 2:9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.
3. There is a manner in which the whole creation reveals God. Romans 1:19-20 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse.
a. Look into the heavens and they reveal his glory. Psalm 19:1-3 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard. Psalm 97:6 The heavens declare his righteousness, and all the people see his glory.
4. God revealed himself in different ways down through the ages.
5. God is revealed in his written word and that is a much fuller revelation of God than in nature, or in visions and dreams. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
6. God's greatest revelation of himself which man has every seen was in the person of Jesus Christ.
a. If we would behold his glory it must be in God the Word made flesh. Jn. 1:14
b. If we would see God we must see him in his Son made flesh and dwelling among us. John 1:18 No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.
c. If we are to see the fulness of the Godhead we must see it bodily in the man Christ Jesus. Colossians 2:9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.
E. He destroyed the power of Satan and delivered his people from the fear of death. Hebrews 2:14 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil.
1. If he would destroy the one who has the power of death he must do it through death.
2. Since God cannot die he must partake of a nature that can die so he took on him flesh and blood.
3. But, if he would enter into the realm of death and by it have the power to destroy him who had the power of death, he most be more than a mere sinless man.
4. He must have power to give his life, not have it taken from him by man.
5. He must have power to lay down his life and take his life up again and this could only be done if he were God. John 10:18 No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.
F. He has opened up the way for us to enter into heaven. Hebrews 10:19-20 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh.
1. Unfallen Adam did not have access to heaven but was confined to this earth even before his fall.
2. A mere sinless man could not open up a way into heaven for sinners merely on his human merits.
3. The blood of the one opening the way must be of such infinite worth that all who are redeemed by it can enter into the very presence of God.
4. The infinite worth of the shed blood of Jesus Christ must be attributed to the hypostatic union of the Divine nature with the human nature.
5. That union is such, and the Divine nature so affects the human nature that the blood of the Man Christ Jesus can properly and Scripturally be called the blood of God. Acts 20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
G. He suffered for our sins and brought us to God. 1 Peter 3:18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit. 1 Peter 4:1 Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin.
1. Let me remind you again that Christ's death was a death in the flesh; his deity did not die; God cannot die, he was put to death in the flesh, he suffered for sins in the flesh.
2. But, if that death was to serve its purpose and secure our justification, that suffering and death must have infinite worth and infinite merit.
3. That was achieved through the union of the Divine nature with the human nature, lending the human nature the Divine merit and infinite worth.
4. Because of this it is said that they crucified the Lord of glory. 1 Corinthians 2:8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
H. He did all these things in the flesh and through his suffering and death in the flesh, but, it would have done us no good had all that he did in the flesh not received infinite worth and merit from the union of his Divine nature with his human nature.
A. A mediator is not a mediator of one therefore the mediator could not be either God or man; he must be both God and man. Galatians 3:20 Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.
B. If he would manifest God to us he must be God in the flesh. I Tim. 3:16
C. If he would set forth the exact, precise will of God he must be God. Hebrews 1:1-3 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high.
D. If he would serve as the angel of the everlasting covenant of grace, he must be privy to that covenant and none were but the three persons of the Godhead. Malachi 3:1 Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts.
E. If he would be our counsellor concerning the things of God he must be mighty God and everlasting father. Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
CONC: He must be God with us. He must be the eternal Word made flesh and dwelling among us. A sinless man could never save if he were not also God, for salvation is of the Lord. God alone can save and he shall save he shall save his people from their sins, so he must be God and he was God. His glory was the glory of the only begotten of the Father. God is the God of all grace and he was full of grace. He was eternally rich but became extremely pure that we might be rich. In him dwelt all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. Yes, his name was called Emmanuel, God with us!
Last updated on Sunday, September 10, 2006
KNOWING THE ABSOLUTE NECESSITY
OF THE HUMANITY OF JESUS CHRIST
A Sermon by Wayne Camp
SERIES TEXT: Philippians 3:10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death.
TEXT: Heb. 2:9-18
INTRO: In the first message in this series we saw that we must know Christ as God if we are to know God at all. In the second we saw that we must also know him as man. I pointed out that this knowledge of Christ both as God and man is essential to salvation. To deny either is damning in its effect. To deny the deity of Christ is condemnation and spiritual death. John 3:18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. John 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him. To deny the humanity of Christ is antichrist.
There is nothing in the word of God which has been the source of more error than the person of Jesus Christ. Some have denied that he was God. Others have denied that he was man. Some have claimed he was a created God while others claimed he was a mere phantasm and not literally man. Some have denied that he had a real human body while others have admitted that he had a human body but denied that he had human blood or a human soul and mind. Some have argued that he was actually two persons while others have said he was one person who was half God and half man. Some of those who denied that he had a true human body have denied that he really died. Some have argued that there is only one person in the Godhead and that this one person, known as Father, Son, and Spirit, became incarnate and suffered on the cross. It is evident that such a study as we are in is extremely important and should not be entered upon lightly, frivolously, or hurriedly. John 17:3 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.
In the message last Sunday we saw the absolute necessity of the deity of Jesus Christ. Today, we will see the absolute necessity of his being man. In this message I will not be seeking to prove his humanity as I did in the second message of the series. I will be showing the necessity of his being man. The first two points will be negative. First, We will see why as God only he could not perform the work that was necessary for our salvation. Secondly, We will see why he could not and did not take on him the nature of angels to fulfill the work given him by the Father. Thirdly, We will see the absolute necessity of his taking on him our nature, our likeness, and why it behooved him in all things to be made like us.
I. CHRIST JESUS MUST BE MAN FOR AS GOD ONLY HE COULD NOT PERFORM THE WORK THAT WAS NECESSARY FOR OUR SALVATION
A. God had an alternative to the Word being made flesh; he could have consigned us all to hell as he has the fallen angels, but he did not do that.
B. If God would save any of Adam's fallen posterity it was necessary that the Word be made flesh. John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
C. As God only he could not mediate on the part of man for he could not lay his hand on man. Job 9:32-33 For he is not a man, as I am, that I should answer him, and we should come together in judgment. Neither is there any daysman betwixt us, that might lay his hand upon us both.
D. As God only he could not serve as our kinsman redeemer for he was not related to us. Ruth 3:9-13 And he said, Who art thou? And she answered, I am Ruth thine handmaid: spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid; for thou art a near kinsman. And he said, Blessed be thou of the LORD, my daughter: for thou hast shewed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou followedst not young men, whether poor or rich. And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman. And now it is true that I am thy near kinsman: howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I. Tarry this night, and it shall be in the morning, that if he will perform unto thee the part of a kinsman, well; let him do the kinsman's part: but if he will not do the part of a kinsman to thee, then will I do the part of a kinsman to thee, as the LORD liveth: lie down until the morning.
1. This passage shows that a redeemer must be a near kinsman.
2. Further, it also shows that this redeemer must be as near a kinsman as possible.
3. As God only there is no way this near-kinsman relationship existed and the Eternal word could not fulfill it.
E. As God only he could represent God but since the Saviour must be the covenant head of his people he must be of the same nature as we. Psalm 89:19 Then thou spakest in vision to thy holy one, and saidst, I have laid help upon one that is mighty; I have exalted one chosen out of the people.
F. As God only he could not serve as our great High Priest because only a man can serve as a high priest. Hebrews 5:1 For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins.
1. As high and holy and wonderful as the eternal Word was in his Godhood, he could not qualify as our high priest because he was not a man.
2. As high and holy as he was in his Godhood, he had nothing which could be offered up in sacrifice to God.
G. As God only he could render obedience to the law for he was the lawgiver.
H. As God he could not die and he must if he would deliver us from death.
1. God is eternally the same and the death of God would make him mutable.
2. God is from everlasting to everlasting and cannot die.
3. God does not even slumber or sleep; he certainly could not die. Psalm 121:4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.
I. As God alone he could not have shed his blood for as God alone he has no blood. Hebrews 9:22 And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.
J. If I pursue this point any further, I will preach my last point as part of the first. These points should give us enough to see why God did not set upon a plan to redeem and save his people except through the incarnation of the eternal word in human flesh.
II. WHY CHRIST DID NOT TAKE ON HIM THE NATURE OF ANGELS TO PERFORM THE WORK GIVEN HIM BY THE FATHER
A. He was not suffering for angels therefore he did not lay hold of their nature. Hebrews 2:16 For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham.
B. Angels are not related to man in nature and he could not have been our kinsman redeemer if he had laid hold of the nature of angels and been made like them.
C. We needed a brother and no angel could be our brother. Song of Solomon 8:1 O that thou wert as my brother, that sucked the breasts of my mother! when I should find thee without, I would kiss thee; yea, I should not be despised.
1. An angel could never have met this need expressed in this verse.
2. Christ must be the firstborn among many brethren and as an angel he could not have been. Romans 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
D. The remission of sins required the shedding of blood and angels have no blood to shed. Hebrews 9:22 And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.
E. Had he taken hold of the nature of angels he could not have fulfilled every jot and title of the law for that would be impossible for an angel.
1. An angel is a non-sexual being and the law required circumcision.
2. As an angel he would have had no parents and the law required one to honor his parents.
III. WHY THE ONE WHO WOULD SAVE US FROM OUR SINS MUST BE MADE IN OUR LIKENESS AND HAVE A HUMAN NATURE LIKE OURS
A. If it could have been done any other way, is it not logical that an all-wise God would have done it that way, rather than ask his Son to come into the world to suffer all that he suffered?
1. This seems to have been the thrust of one of Paul's statements to the Galatians. Galatians 3:21 Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.
2. If there had been another way then Christ's death was in vain. Galatians 2:21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.
B. The weakness of law required that Christ come in the likeness of sinful flesh. Romans 8:3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh.
C. The man who would be our High Priest and Saviour must have something to offer in sacrifice. Hebrews 8:3 For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer.
1. He offered his human body which was taken on for that very purpose. Hebrews 10:5 Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me. Hebrews 10:10 By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
2. He offered up his complete human nature, body, blood, and soul to God. Hebrews 2:14-15 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.
D. If he would sanctify us he must be all of one nature with us. Hebrews 2:11 For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren.
E. Since death came by man, God required also that the resurrection out of the dead must come by man. 1 Corinthians 15:21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead.
F. Since by one man's offence many were made dead; God decreed that grace must come through the channel of a man. Romans 5:15 But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many.
G. Since condemnation came by a man, justification must come by a man. Romans 5:16 And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. Romans 5:18 Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.
H. Since death reigned by one man, righteousness must also reign by one man. Romans 5:17 For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)
I. Since many were made sinners by the disobedience of a man, those who are made righteous must be made so by the obedience of one man. Romans 5:19 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.
J. He must take the nature of man if he is to destroy the one who had the power of the death of men. Hebrews 2:14-15 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; 15 And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.
K. If he would experience what we experience he must do so in our nature. Hebrews 4:15-16 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
L. He must have a life that he could lay down in death and that required a human life; not divine life. John 10:18 No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.
M. He must have a soul that could be sorrowful even unto death and that required a human soul. Matthew 26:38 Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.
N. He must have a soul that could be made an offering for sin and only a human soul could be made an offering for sin. Isaiah 53:10 Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand.
O. If he who is in the form of God and equal with God in every divine perfection and attribute would die for men he must take upon himself the likeness of man. Philippians 2:5-8 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
P. If he would give his flesh and blood for our eternal life he must take on him that flesh and blood. John 6:51-56 I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, How can this man give us his flesh to eat? Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him.
Q. If he would open the way into heaven for his he must do so through the veil of his flesh. Hebrews 10:19-20 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh.
R. If he is to be a prophet he must be raised up from among his brethren. Genesis 18:19 For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.
S. If he would be king of the Jews and one day sit on the throne of his Father David, he must be descended from David, and therefore a man. Romans 1:3 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh. Luke 1:32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David.
CONC: So much more could be said on this subject. He must be God, as we saw last Sunday. But, it is so important that he also be man. I will remind you of three of his great offices, all of which required him to be man. He is the Prophet of all prophets and as prophet he must be raised up from among his brethren (Deu 18:19. He is our great High Priest and as such he must be taken from among men (Heb. 5:1). He is king and to sit on David's throne he must be the seed and son of David (Rom. 1:30. He could not be prophet, priest or king if he had not been man. It is essential that we know him as man. It is exceedingly important that we understand and appreciate all that he did for us in becoming man. Great is the marvel, great is the wonder, great is the graciousness, great is the mercy in the great mystery — God was manifest in the flesh!
Last updated on Sunday, September 10, 2006
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