December 18, 2011

The Word becoming flesh ...

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For the sake of accuracy, a distinction should be drawn between the condescension and the humiliation of Christ, though most writers confound them. This distinction is made by the Holy Spirit (Phil. 2:7-8). First, He 'made himself of no reputation'; second, He 'humbled Himself'. The condescension of God the Son consisted in His assuming our nature, the Word becoming flesh. His humiliation lay in the consequent abasement and sufferings He endured in our nature. The assumption of human nature was not, of itself a part of Christ's humiliation, for He still retained it in His glorious exaltation. But for God the Son to take into union with Himself a created nature, animated dust, was an act of infinite condescension." (Arthur Pink, Gleanings in the Godhead)

Who, although He existed in the form of God,
did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped:
but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a bond-servant,
and was made in the likeness of men;
and being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself,
and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
Therefore God also highly exalted Him,
and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name,
that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
of those who are in heaven, and on earth, and under the earth,
and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father."
Philippians 2:6-11

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5 comments:

Di said...

If you site meter is going crazy, it is because I am clicking back again, again and AGAIN to see that white on white baby in the manger. It is perfect.

Merry Christmas,
Di

Tracy P. said...

And the texture and shadows show it off beautifully. Love it.

stacey said...

So so lovely.....

tracey said...

"animated dust"...beautifully written. Good words for me today.

Anita Johnson said...

Merry, Merry Christmas to you and your family this Christmas, Susan.