Christmas: The Miracle Of The Incarnation Series

CHRISTMAS: THE MIRACLE OF THE INCARNATION

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: John 1:14

Key Verse: “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.” — John 1:14

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:21-23; Philippians 2:6-8; Hebrews 2:14-18; Luke 2:10-11

INTRODUCTION

The incarnation stands as one of the greatest mysteries and miracles of the Christian faith. It is the divine act where the eternal God stepped into time, clothed Himself with humanity, and entered the world He created. Christmas is not merely a celebration of a birth but the celebration of God’s intervention in human history.

In a world broken by sin, fear, and separation from God, heaven responded not with distance but with nearness. God did not send a philosophy, an angel, or a law; He came Himself. The incarnation reveals God’s heart: personal, compassionate, and redemptive.

Understanding the miracle of the incarnation deepens our faith, strengthens our hope, and redefines our relationship with God. It assures us that God understands human struggles and has provided a permanent solution through Jesus Christ.

1. GOD BECAME FLESH WITHOUT CEASING TO BE GOD

The incarnation reveals the mystery of divine humility, God remaining fully God while becoming fully man to accomplish redemption.

a) The eternal Word entered human history (John 1:1, 14)

Jesus existed eternally as the Word, yet willingly stepped into time and space to dwell among humanity without losing His divine nature.

b) The invisible God became visible (Colossians 1:15)

Through Jesus, humanity could finally see, hear, and relate personally with the invisible God in a tangible way.

c) God took on real human nature (Hebrews 2:14)

Jesus shared in flesh and blood, fully identifying with human weakness while remaining without sin.

d) Divinity and humanity united perfectly (Philippians 2:6-7)

The incarnation was not God pretending to be human but God truly becoming human in humility and obedience.

Biblical Example:

The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem demonstrates how the eternal God entered the world through a humble manger while retaining His divine glory (Luke 2:6-7).

2. THE INCARNATION REVEALS GOD’S LOVE FOR HUMANITY

God’s decision to become human was motivated by overwhelming love rather than obligation.

a) Love compelled God to come near (John 3:16)

The incarnation was God’s ultimate expression of love toward a lost and broken world.

b) God chose relationship over distance (Isaiah 7:14)

By becoming Emmanuel, God removed the barrier between Himself and humanity.

c) Love moved God to suffer with humanity (Hebrews 4:15)

Jesus experienced human pain, sorrow, and temptation, proving God’s empathy with our struggles.

d) Love provided redemption through sacrifice (Romans 5:8)

The incarnation paved the way for the cross, where divine love paid the ultimate price for salvation.

Biblical Example:

Jesus weeping with Mary and Martha before raising Lazarus shows God’s compassion and emotional connection with humanity (John 11:33-35).

3. THE INCARNATION BROUGHT SALVATION TO THE WORLD

The miracle of the incarnation was not symbolic; it was purposeful and redemptive.

a) Jesus came to save, not to condemn (Luke 19:10)

The incarnation initiated God’s rescue mission for sinners who could not save themselves.

b) Salvation required a sinless substitute (2 Corinthians 5:21)

Only by becoming human could Jesus legally and spiritually redeem humanity.

c) The incarnation fulfilled prophetic promises (Isaiah 9:6)

God’s plan of salvation was foretold centuries before and fulfilled perfectly in Christ.

d) Redemption became accessible to all (Romans 10:12-13)

Through Jesus, salvation is no longer limited by culture, race, or background.

Biblical Example:

The angel’s announcement to the shepherds declared that the incarnation brought salvation for all people (Luke 2:10-11).

4. THE INCARNATION RESTORED GOD’S DWELLING WITH MAN

God’s original desire was always to dwell with humanity, and the incarnation restored that purpose.

a) God moved from temples to hearts (1 Corinthians 3:16)

Through Christ, God’s presence is no longer confined to buildings but lives within believers.

b) The incarnation reversed separation caused by sin (Ephesians 2:13)

Jesus bridged the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity.

c) God’s presence became permanent (Matthew 28:20)

Through Christ and the Holy Spirit, God remains with His people forever.

d) Heaven’s culture was introduced on earth (John 14:9)

Jesus revealed the nature, values, and character of God through His earthly life.

Biblical Example:

Jesus walking with His disciples daily illustrated God’s restored fellowship with humanity (John 1:39).

CONCLUSION

The miracle of the incarnation is the foundation of Christian faith and hope. It reveals a God who is not distant, indifferent, or unreachable but present, loving, and involved in human affairs. Christmas reminds us that God stepped into our world to change our destiny.

As we reflect on the incarnation, we are called to respond with faith, obedience, and gratitude. The God who became flesh invites us to walk with Him daily, trust His salvation fully, and reflect His love to a troubled world.