The doctrine of the humanity of Christ is a foundational aspect of Christian theology. It emphasizes that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was not only fully divine but also fully human. This belief is crucial because it underscores that Christ’s incarnation allowed Him to serve as a perfect mediator between God and humanity. The concept of the humanity of Christ is rooted in biblical teachings, which affirm that Jesus was born of a woman, experienced human emotions and physical pain, and underwent death in His human nature.
Scriptures Supporting the Humanity of Christ (For)
- John 1:14 (KJV): “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.”
- Explanation: This verse highlights the incarnation of Christ, stating that “the Word” (which is Christ) became flesh. It emphasizes that Jesus was both fully divine and fully human.
- Matthew 1:23 (KJV): “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.”
- Explanation: Jesus’ birth to Mary as a child affirms His humanity, fulfilling the prophecy of the virgin birth.
- Luke 2:52 (KJV): “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.”
- Explanation: This scripture affirms Jesus’ development as a human, experiencing growth in wisdom, stature, and social relationships.
- Hebrews 4:15 (KJV): “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”
- Explanation: Jesus experienced human weaknesses and temptations, yet He did not sin, emphasizing His genuine humanity.
- Philippians 2:7-8 (KJV): “But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”
- Explanation: This passage underscores Jesus’ voluntary choice to take on human form, humbling Himself to the point of death.
- Matthew 26:38 (KJV): “Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.”
- Explanation: Jesus expressed deep sorrow and distress in His human nature, showing He felt emotions like any human would.
- Mark 15:34 (KJV): “And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?”
- Explanation: In His human nature, Jesus experienced a sense of abandonment, echoing the depths of human suffering.
- Romans 5:15 (KJV): “But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many.”
- Explanation: The passage refers to Jesus as “one man,” affirming His humanity, which was essential for His role in human salvation.
Scriptures Against the Humanity of Christ (Against)
Though the vast majority of Christian scriptures support the humanity of Christ, some groups have historically questioned or distorted the doctrine. For these arguments, the key issue revolves around the belief in Christ’s full divinity and the tension between His divine nature and His human nature.
- John 8:58 (KJV): “Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.”
- Explanation: This declaration by Jesus is often seen by some as indicating His preexistence and divinity, possibly diminishing His humanity.
- John 10:30 (KJV): “I and my Father are one.”
- Explanation: This statement of unity with the Father may be interpreted by some as a claim of divinity that contradicts the full humanity of Christ.
- Colossians 2:9 (KJV): “For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.”
- Explanation: This verse underscores the fullness of the divine nature of Christ, which may lead some to question how His humanity can coexist fully with this divinity.
- 1 Timothy 3:16 (KJV): “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh…”
- Explanation: This scripture presents the mystery of Christ’s incarnation, emphasizing that God manifested Himself in human form, which could lead to the interpretation that His divine nature overshadows His humanity.
- Luke 1:35 (KJV): “And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”
- Explanation: The reference to Jesus as “the Son of God” could be interpreted by some to emphasize His divinity over His humanity.
- Revelation 1:8 (KJV): “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.”
- Explanation: This declaration of eternal divinity may be seen by some as highlighting Christ’s divine nature, possibly at the expense of His humanity.
- John 1:1 (KJV): “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
- Explanation: This emphasizes the divine preexistence of the Word (Jesus), which could lead to questions about the full extent of His human nature.
- Romans 1:3 (KJV): “Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh…”
- Explanation: The mention of Jesus as “made of the seed of David” underscores His humanity, but the surrounding context may emphasize His divine nature, leading to debates about how both natures coexist.
Denominational Views
1. Roman Catholic Church
- Position: The Roman Catholic Church teaches that Jesus Christ is both fully human and fully divine. The doctrine of the hypostatic union (Christ’s two natures) is central to Catholic theology. This belief was confirmed at the Council of Chalcedon (451 AD).
- Scriptural Basis for Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…”
- Jesus, who is the eternal Word, took on human flesh, fully identifying with humanity.
- Philippians 2:7-8 (KJV): “But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”
- Christ’s incarnation and humble obedience to death highlight His full humanity.
- Luke 2:52 (KJV): “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.”
- This verse shows Christ’s human development, both physically and mentally.
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…”
- Arguments For the Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 affirms that the eternal Word became flesh, making Jesus fully human.
- Philippians 2:7-8 emphasizes Christ’s humility and His voluntary assumption of human nature.
- Luke 2:52 demonstrates that Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, marking His full human experience.
- Arguments Against the Humanity of Christ:
- Some could point to John 8:58 (“Before Abraham was, I am”) as an indication of Christ’s eternal divine nature, which might be seen as overshadowing His humanity.
- John 10:30 (“I and my Father are one”) could be interpreted as emphasizing Christ’s divine unity with the Father, reducing focus on His humanity.
- Summary: The Roman Catholic Church upholds the belief in Christ’s dual nature, asserting His full humanity and divinity. The hypostatic union ensures His full identification with human nature, which is essential for His redemptive work.
2. Eastern Orthodox Church
- Position: Like the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church holds that Jesus Christ is both fully human and fully divine, with the doctrine of the hypostatic union forming the foundation of their Christology. They focus on the transformative aspect of the Incarnation, which leads to the potential for human deification.
- Scriptural Basis for Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh…”
- This verse underscores Christ’s full humanity through His incarnation.
- Hebrews 2:17 (KJV): “Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest…”
- Christ’s full humanity is essential for Him to be the merciful high priest, representing humanity before God.
- Luke 1:35 (KJV): “The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee…”
- The virgin birth indicates that Jesus was born fully human, while being conceived by the Holy Spirit.
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh…”
- Arguments For the Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 affirms Christ’s incarnation, signifying His full participation in human life.
- Hebrews 2:17 stresses that Christ needed to be fully human to fulfill His priestly duties and make atonement for mankind.
- Luke 1:35 underlines the significance of Jesus’ human birth, necessary for His role in human salvation.
- Arguments Against the Humanity of Christ:
- John 10:30 (“I and my Father are one”) could be cited to emphasize Christ’s unity with the Father, pointing to His divine nature and possibly detracting from His humanity.
- Revelation 1:8 (“I am Alpha and Omega… the Almighty”) might be used to highlight Christ’s eternal and divine nature, overshadowing His humanity.
- Summary: The Eastern Orthodox Church teaches that Christ is both fully human and divine, with His humanity being necessary for His work of salvation and deification of believers. They emphasize the hypostatic union and theosis (divinization).
3. Evangelical Protestantism
- Position: Evangelical Protestants universally affirm that Jesus Christ is both fully human and fully divine. His humanity is essential for His atoning sacrifice on the cross, where He identified with human suffering and paid for human sin.
- Scriptural Basis for Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh…”
- Jesus took on human form, becoming fully human in order to fulfill the mission of salvation.
- Philippians 2:7-8 (KJV): “But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant…”
- Christ’s voluntary humility and obedience to death show His full human nature.
- Hebrews 4:15 (KJV): “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”
- Christ’s experience of human temptations and suffering confirms His humanity.
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh…”
- Arguments For the Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 underscores the full humanity of Christ through His incarnation.
- Philippians 2:7-8 emphasizes that Jesus, though divine, assumed the form of a servant and became obedient to death, which points to His full humanity.
- Hebrews 4:15 highlights Christ’s empathy and identification with human suffering, showing that He was fully human.
- Arguments Against the Humanity of Christ:
- John 10:30 (“I and my Father are one”) might be cited to emphasize Christ’s divinity and unity with the Father, potentially minimizing His humanity.
- Colossians 2:9 (“For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily”) could be used to focus on Christ’s divine nature and might seem to diminish His humanity.
- Summary: Evangelical Protestants emphasize Christ’s full humanity as essential for His redemptive work. Hebrews 4:15 stresses that He can sympathize with human weakness because He was fully human, while still being fully divine.
4. Baptist (Southern Baptist, Independent Baptist, etc.)
- Position: Baptists affirm the full humanity and divinity of Christ. His humanity is vital for His sacrificial death, through which He made atonement for sin. Christ’s human nature enables Him to serve as the perfect mediator between God and mankind.
- Scriptural Basis for Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…”
- Christ became flesh and dwelt among us, affirming His humanity.
- Philippians 2:7-8 (KJV): “But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant…”
- Christ’s humility and self-sacrifice are core to His humanity.
- Hebrews 2:9-18 (KJV): “But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death…”
- Jesus’ humanity is emphasized as necessary for His sacrificial death and for Him to become the merciful high priest.
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…”
- Arguments For the Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 confirms that the eternal Word became fully human.
- Philippians 2:7-8 highlights Jesus’ choice to take on human form and experience suffering.
- Hebrews 2:9-18 underscores the necessity of Christ’s humanity for His atonement and high priestly role.
- Arguments Against the Humanity of Christ:
- John 10:30 (“I and my Father are one”) could be seen as emphasizing Christ’s divine nature over His humanity.
- Romans 1:3 (“Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh”) might be viewed as less significant than verses focusing on Christ’s divine nature.
- Summary: Baptists affirm the full humanity and divinity of Christ, emphasizing that His humanity is essential for His sacrificial role in salvation. Scriptures such as Hebrews 2:9-18 highlight the importance of Christ’s human nature for His atoning death.
5. Methodist (United Methodist, AME, etc.)
- Position: Methodists affirm that Jesus Christ is both fully human and fully divine. The humanity of Christ is central to His redemptive work, especially His ability to sympathize with human suffering and atone for sin.
- Scriptural Basis for Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…”
- Christ became flesh, experiencing full humanity.
- Hebrews 2:14 (KJV): “Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same…”
- Jesus took on human nature in every way to fully identify with humanity and accomplish salvation.
- Luke 2:52 (KJV): “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.”
- Jesus’ growth in wisdom and stature highlights His development as a human being.
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…”
- Arguments For the Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 affirms Christ’s incarnation, emphasizing His humanity.
- Hebrews 2:14 shows that Jesus fully took on human flesh, sharing in our nature to be the perfect Savior.
- Luke 2:52 confirms Christ’s human growth and development, showing He was truly human.
- Arguments Against the Humanity of Christ:
- John 8:58 (“Before Abraham was, I am”) may emphasize Christ’s divine pre-existence and might be interpreted to diminish His human nature.
- John 10:30 (“I and my Father are one”) could be seen as placing emphasis on His divinity, overshadowing His humanity.
- Summary: Methodists affirm the full humanity of Christ, which is essential for His role as Savior. His humanity allows Him to empathize with human weakness and provide atonement for sin. They emphasize John 1:14 and Hebrews 2:14 to highlight Christ’s identification with human nature.
6. Lutheran (Missouri Synod, ELCA, etc.)
- Position: Lutherans firmly believe that Jesus Christ is both fully human and fully divine. The hypostatic union is central to their Christology, affirming that in Christ, divinity and humanity are united in one person.
- Scriptural Basis for Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…”
- This affirms Christ’s full humanity through His incarnation.
- Philippians 2:7-8 (KJV): “But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men…”
- Christ’s humility and servant role show His identification with humanity.
- Hebrews 2:17 (KJV): “Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest…”
- Christ’s humanity is essential for His role as high priest, bridging the gap between humanity and God.
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…”
- Arguments For the Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 supports the belief that the eternal Word became flesh, showing Christ’s full humanity.
- Philippians 2:7-8 emphasizes the humility of Christ’s incarnation, where He took on the nature of a servant to fulfill His redemptive mission.
- Hebrews 2:17 emphasizes that Christ was made like humanity to be an effective mediator.
- Arguments Against the Humanity of Christ:
- Colossians 2:9 (“For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily”) might be interpreted to emphasize Christ’s divine nature over His humanity.
- John 10:30 (“I and my Father are one”) can be used to highlight Christ’s unity with the Father, potentially overshadowing His humanity.
- Summary: Lutherans affirm the full humanity of Christ in conjunction with His divinity. The hypostatic union is essential to their belief, emphasizing that Christ, though fully divine, took on full humanity to save humanity. Scriptures like John 1:14 and Hebrews 2:17 support His role as both divine and human.
7. Pentecostal (Assemblies of God, UPCI, etc.)
- Position: Pentecostals strongly affirm the full humanity of Christ, understanding His human nature as essential for His atoning work and ability to empathize with human suffering. Pentecostals emphasize the work of the Holy Spirit in Christ’s life and ministry.
- Scriptural Basis for Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh…”
- Christ’s incarnation is seen as central to His role as Savior.
- Hebrews 2:14 (KJV): “Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same…”
- Jesus took on human nature, allowing Him to represent humanity and defeat death.
- Matthew 4:2 (KJV): “And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred.”
- Jesus experienced physical needs like hunger, demonstrating His human limitations.
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh…”
- Arguments For the Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 emphasizes that Jesus became fully human in the incarnation.
- Hebrews 2:14 underscores Christ’s participation in human nature to defeat sin and death.
- Matthew 4:2 highlights that Christ experienced physical limitations, further affirming His humanity.
- Arguments Against the Humanity of Christ:
- John 10:30 (“I and my Father are one”) could be used to emphasize Christ’s divine nature, possibly minimizing His human nature.
- Colossians 2:9 (“For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily”) might be seen as focusing on Christ’s divinity.
- Summary: Pentecostals affirm the humanity of Christ, highlighting His role as both fully divine and fully human. Scriptures such as John 1:14 and Hebrews 2:14 emphasize His identification with humanity, while His physical hunger in Matthew 4:2 showcases His humanity in a practical sense.
8. Jehovah’s Witnesses
- Position: Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that Jesus Christ is not fully God but was a created being who became the Messiah. They teach that He is fully human but deny His full divinity, viewing Him as a perfect man, but not God.
- Scriptural Basis for Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…”
- Jehovah’s Witnesses might agree that Jesus became human but view Him as a created being, not eternal.
- Philippians 2:7-8 (KJV): “But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men…”
- They acknowledge Christ’s humanity, but argue that He is not equal to God the Father.
- Matthew 4:2 (KJV): “And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred.”
- This verse shows Jesus’ human nature, but Jehovah’s Witnesses would deny that He is divine.
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…”
- Arguments For the Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 affirms Jesus became flesh, which is understood as His full humanity.
- Philippians 2:7-8 points to His full humanity and humility, showing that He took on a human nature.
- Matthew 4:2 highlights that Jesus experienced hunger, showing His human vulnerability.
- Arguments Against the Humanity of Christ:
- John 10:30 (“I and my Father are one”) would be seen as a distortion, as Jehovah’s Witnesses deny the full divinity of Christ.
- Colossians 1:15 (“Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature”) is used to argue that Jesus was created, not eternal.
- Summary: Jehovah’s Witnesses affirm the humanity of Christ but deny His full divinity. They hold that Jesus is a created being and not co-eternal with the Father. Scriptures like John 1:14 support His humanity but not His divinity.
9. Mormonism (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – LDS)
- Position: Mormons believe that Jesus Christ is fully human and fully divine but interpret His divinity differently than traditional Christian doctrines. They see Jesus as the literal Son of God, born in a physical sense through the union of God the Father and Mary. They do not believe in the traditional Christian doctrine of the Trinity and view Christ as a separate being from God the Father.
- Scriptural Basis for Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…”
- Mormons accept that Jesus became flesh, which is essential to their understanding of His humanity.
- Luke 2:52 (KJV): “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.”
- This highlights Jesus’ human growth and development, which Mormons affirm.
- Hebrews 2:17 (KJV): “Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest…”
- This passage is used to show that Jesus’ humanity was necessary to perform His high priestly duties.
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…”
- Arguments For the Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 affirms Jesus’ full humanity through His incarnation.
- Luke 2:52 demonstrates that Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, confirming He was fully human.
- Hebrews 2:17 shows that Jesus needed to be human in order to fulfill His role as a merciful high priest.
- Arguments Against the Humanity of Christ:
- John 10:30 (“I and my Father are one”) is interpreted by Mormons as showing the divine nature of Christ, though they don’t interpret it in the same way as traditional Christians.
- Colossians 1:15 (“Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature”) might be interpreted as emphasizing Christ’s preeminence but not necessarily reducing His humanity.
- Summary: Mormons affirm that Jesus is both fully human and divine but interpret His divinity as distinct from traditional Christian views. They reject the traditional doctrine of the Trinity, viewing Christ as a separate being from God the Father. While they recognize His humanity (e.g., Luke 2:52), their understanding of His divinity differs significantly from orthodox Christian beliefs.
10. Seventh-day Adventist
- Position: Seventh-day Adventists believe in the full humanity of Christ as essential for His role as Savior. They teach that Jesus Christ was both fully human and fully divine. His humanity is seen as necessary for His atoning sacrifice, allowing Him to fully identify with humanity and overcome sin on their behalf.
- Scriptural Basis for Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…”
- This verse is central to their understanding of the incarnation, affirming Christ’s full humanity.
- Philippians 2:7-8 (KJV): “But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men…”
- Christ’s choice to take on human nature is emphasized, showing His humility and full identification with humanity.
- Hebrews 2:14 (KJV): “Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same…”
- Christ’s sharing in human nature is highlighted, reinforcing the need for Him to be human to accomplish salvation.
- John 1:14 (KJV): “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…”
- Arguments For the Humanity of Christ:
- John 1:14 confirms the incarnation of Christ, showing His humanity.
- Philippians 2:7-8 emphasizes Christ’s choice to humble Himself and become fully human.
- Hebrews 2:14 stresses that Christ took part in humanity’s nature to overcome sin and death on their behalf.
- Arguments Against the Humanity of Christ:
- John 10:30 (“I and my Father are one”) could be cited to emphasize Christ’s unity with the Father, but this doesn’t negate His humanity; rather, it supports His divinity.
- Colossians 2:9 (“For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily”) is used to underline Christ’s divine nature, though it does not contradict His humanity in Adventist belief.
- Summary: Seventh-day Adventists strongly affirm Christ’s full humanity and full divinity, highlighting His incarnation as essential for the salvation of humanity. They emphasize that Christ’s humanity allows Him to serve as a perfect mediator and Savior. Scriptures such as John 1:14 and Hebrews 2:14 are central to their understanding of the humanity of Christ.
Summary of Views
- Roman Catholic Church: Christ is fully human and fully divine; the hypostatic union is central to salvation.
- Eastern Orthodox Church: Similar to Catholicism, Christ is fully human and fully divine, emphasizing theosis and the transformative power of the Incarnation.
- Evangelical Protestantism: Christ is fully human and divine; His humanity is essential for salvation, especially in His atoning death.
- Baptists: Affirm Christ’s full humanity and divinity, focusing on His atoning work and sacrificial death.
- Methodists: Christ is fully human and divine; His humanity allows Him to empathize with human suffering and provide atonement.
- Lutherans: Christ is fully human and fully divine; the hypostatic union is key to His redemptive work.
- Pentecostals: Christ is fully human and divine; His humanity is necessary for His role in salvation and His empathy for human suffering.
- Jehovah’s Witnesses: Deny Christ’s full divinity but affirm His humanity; they believe Jesus was created by God.
- Mormonism: Christ is both human and divine, but their view of His divinity differs from traditional Christianity.
- Seventh-day Adventists: Affirm Christ’s full humanity and divinity, emphasizing His role in salvation and mediation.
Summary Table of Denominational Views on the Humanity of Christ
Denomination | View | Scripture Basis (For) | Argument Against | Scripture Basis (Against) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Roman Catholic Church | Fully human and fully divine (Hypostatic Union) | John 1:14 – “And the Word was made flesh…” | John 10:30 – “I and my Father are one” | John 10:30 – Denial of full humanity due to focus on divinity |
Eastern Orthodox Church | Fully human and fully divine (Hypostatic Union) | John 1:14 – “And the Word was made flesh…” | John 8:58 – “Before Abraham was, I am” | John 8:58 – Could diminish human nature because of pre-existence |
Evangelical Protestant | Fully human and fully divine, central for salvation | John 1:14 – “And the Word was made flesh…” | John 10:30 – “I and my Father are one” | John 10:30 – May emphasize divinity, minimizing humanity |
Baptists (General) | Fully human and fully divine, central for salvation | Hebrews 2:17 – “Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren…” | Colossians 2:9 – “For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily” | Colossians 2:9 – Focus on Christ’s divinity could overshadow humanity |
Methodists | Fully human and fully divine, His humanity essential for empathy and salvation | Luke 2:52 – “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature…” | John 8:58 – “Before Abraham was, I am” | John 8:58 – Could stress divine nature, reducing focus on humanity |
Lutherans | Fully human and fully divine, Hypostatic Union | Philippians 2:7-8 – “But made himself of no reputation…” | John 10:30 – “I and my Father are one” | John 10:30 – May focus on divinity, potentially diminishing humanity |
Pentecostals | Fully human and fully divine, essential for salvation and empathy | Hebrews 2:14 – “Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood…” | Colossians 2:9 – “For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily” | Colossians 2:9 – Could emphasize divinity at the expense of humanity |
Jehovah’s Witnesses | Fully human, but deny full divinity | John 1:14 – “And the Word was made flesh…” | John 10:30 – “I and my Father are one” | John 10:30 – Denial of full divinity of Christ, focusing only on His humanity |
Mormonism | Fully human and divine, but divinity differs from traditional Christian views | Luke 2:52 – “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature…” | John 10:30 – “I and my Father are one” | John 10:30 – Can be interpreted to emphasize divinity, excluding full humanity |
Seventh-day Adventist | Fully human and fully divine, essential for salvation | Hebrews 2:14 – “Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood…” | John 10:30 – “I and my Father are one” | John 10:30 – Could emphasize divinity and overshadow Christ’s humanity |
Conclusion
Common Debate Points: Many arguments against the full humanity of Christ, especially in denominations with non-Trinitarian views, focus on passages that emphasize His divinity, such as John 10:30 or Colossians 2:9, suggesting that these highlight His divine nature over His human nature.
Shared Views: Most denominations affirm the full humanity of Christ (e.g., John 1:14, Hebrews 2:17) as essential for salvation, particularly in His ability to empathize with human suffering and His atoning death. The hypostatic union (Christ being fully God and fully human) is a common doctrinal position among Catholic, Orthodox, Evangelical, Lutheran, Methodist, and Baptist groups.
Divergent Views: Groups like Jehovah’s Witnesses and Mormons assert Christ’s humanity but deny His full divinity. They have unique interpretations of scriptures like John 10:30 and Colossians 2:9, often emphasizing Christ’s role as a created being or distinct from God the Father.