February 4, 2010

"And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross!" Philippians 2:8

When Jesus emptied Himself into the flesh of a man, how did that impact His divinity?

There are two theological concepts that come into play here. The first being "kenosis". This implies that His emptying did not diminish the essential glory that was His as the Second Person of the Trinity but rather it was veiled by the humanity He assumed.

For example, when a cloud temporarily obscures the sun, it doesn't diminish the power or brightness of the sun but it hides it for awhile. So, too, Jesus' glory was obscured by His earthly dwelling.

That is the "Kenosis".

But Jesus was also fully God. That is the term "hypostasis". That affirms that while Jesus was 100 % man, He was simultaneously 100% God. Through this "hypostasis" Jesus was uniquely prepared and qualified to satisfy the holy demands of God while atoning for the sins of man. Jesus was the God/man - sent from God to redeem and deliver man. Jesus was the bridge to span the moral separation between God and man.

So, there you have a couple of sound theological concepts upon which to build your doctrine of the incarnation. He became like you to provide a way whereby you can become more like Him in your nature and purpose.

"The Kenosis" and the "hypostasis" - two blessed truths AND - two terrific Scrabble words! Both help us understand the great work of grace and mercy our Father extended to us in the Person of His Son, Jesus, the Christ!

Now Jesus through the Holy Spirit greatly desires to take residence in your heart to transform your heart and mind. He wants to be born into you by faith to give you His life. He wants to unleash the glory of His Son through you - a form of the "kenosis" and the "hypostasis" revealed in you.

Jesus was the incredibly perfect Savior! Jesus is the humble yet victorious Lord! How amazing is that !