The Advent Series

God’s Word Became Flesh

John 1:14 _{New Living Translation}

“So the Word became human¹ and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness.² And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.”

                 These two verses clear something up that was a bit of a contentious thing among John’s contemporaries.  Did the Word of God only appear to be human or did it in fact literally take on the form of man, actually becoming flesh and blood like other created beings?  It was now clear, the Christ child was indeed made of human flesh and not simply giving off the appearance of being human.  Christ took on the full nature of a human being and dwelt among us. 

                 The word dwelt, which is used in other respected translations, means quite literally “to pitch one’s tent”.  This appears to be a reference to the Temple, which was a large tent that held the Shekinah glory or divine presence of Almighty God.  Christ was wholly God and wholly man.

                 As modern day believers, we must fully accept and comprehend what took place approximately 2000 years ago.  God became one of us to present his plan for living and salvation from our current spiritual state.  He lived among us, giving us an example of how we are to live.  He taught, prayed, and healed, ministering to all who would come to him. Then he willingly allowed himself to be severely beaten and murdered for our sake.  Christ did this all for the sake of God’s plan to save those who could not save themselves. 

                 Christmas is a special time of year.  There are gifts exchanged, fellowship had, families coming together and decorations galore. There could be a holiday without Christ, but there can be no salvation without the birth of the Savior. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing!

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources:  The Reformation Study Bible and The Life Application Study Bible.

¹ In the Greek it reads “became flesh”.

² Some translations say instead, “He was full of grace and truth”.