The Incarnation: Deity Tabernacled in Humanity

We have learned some wonderful, staggering truths from the Prologue to John's gospel. The same Living “Word” that “framed the worlds” also framed His own human body! When the “Word became flesh,” He limited Himself to a finite body in time; yet He was “full of grace and truth.” The eternal Son of God did not cease to be God for one moment when He was incarnated in Mary's womb. He never left the “bosom of the Father” (John 3:13).

The word “dwelt” in verse 14 literally means “tabernacled.” When Jesus came to earth, He “pitched His tent” among us for 33 ½ years. One day the “tabernacle of God” shall be with men “and He shall dwell with them” forever (Rev. 21:3,4).

Christ was incarnated for a very specific purpose. He came to earth on a “search and rescue mission.” He entered our world that we might live forever in His. He didn't come just to set a good Example or establish a higher code of ethics. We could never have been saved from our sins unless He had been “manifested.”

Has Christ's purpose for coming to earth been fulfilled in you? Have your sins been take away? Forever remitted? Are the “works of the devil” being destroyed in your life?