Jesus’ human birth took place in history, but the Son did not begin to exist at Bethlehem. Knowing His eternal identity deepens worship and teaches us to join authority with humility.
Source book: Christology Explained
Source chapter: Chapter 1 — The Eternal Christ and the Trinity
Source author: Ssentaba Ronald Salongo
Prepared for: Theos Transforming Ministries Teaching Library
Key Scripture
John 1:1–18; Colossians 1:15–20; Philippians 2:5–11
Read these passages in context in your Bible before working through the lesson. Keep the passage open as you read and apply the teaching.
Teaching Explanation
The Word before creation
John begins with the Word already present in the beginning, with God and divine. The same Word became flesh. John therefore distinguishes the Son’s eternal identity from the beginning of His human life. The incarnation is God’s coming near in genuine humanity, not the creation of a new divine being.
Creator and sustainer
Colossians describes all things as created through Christ and for Him. Its language about firstborn belongs to this account of His supremacy; it does not place Him among the creatures whose existence depends on Him. Hebrews 1:3 likewise presents the Son as sustaining all things. Human power and personal ambition stand beneath His lordship.
One God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit
At Jesus’ baptism, the Son, the Father’s voice and the descending Spirit are distinguished. Matthew 28:19 names Father, Son and Holy Spirit within the one baptismal name. Christians confess one God, not three competing gods or one person merely changing roles. Illustrations drawn from created objects cannot explain this confession completely and should not replace the biblical witness.
Divine dignity expressed in service
Philippians 2 places Christ’s identity within an appeal for humility. His self-giving does not mean He stopped being divine; the passage describes His taking the servant’s form and obeying through death. The Lord we worship also teaches us how to regard others. Correct doctrine should deepen gratitude and weaken selfish ambition.
Practical Application
Read Philippians 2:1–11 as one argument. Identify the attitude Paul asks the church to practise. Choose one responsibility in which you can serve without seeking recognition. Let your confession of Christ’s greatness shape both worship and the way you use influence.
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