Why Christ came as Flesh and Blood

“Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil.” Hebrews 2:14 ESV

The image of a baby boy in a manger is precious in our sight during the Christmas season. As Christmas Eve draws closer, the thought of that silent night fills our hearts and minds with great anticipation. The sounds of ‘Away in the Manger, ‘Silent Night,’ and ‘O Holy Night’ fill the air. Little thought is given to the image of the Christ child 33 years later suffering on the cross at Calvary. But that is why Christ came, and why He came as flesh and blood.

The writer of the book of Hebrews says that it was through Christ death on the cross that He destroyed Satan who has the power of death. Jesus conquered death by His resurrection three days later. He could only do that if He became like us and took on our physical nature of flesh and blood. Jesus not only conquered death, but He satisfied God’s required payment for our sins by His death. The apostle John tells us “He is the propitiation (appeasement or satisfaction) for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.” (1Jn.2:2 esv) “For without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness.” (Heb.9:22b nlt)

A third reason why Christ came as flesh and blood is He can help us in our time of need when tempted. “For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.” (Heb.2:18 esv) It is hard for us to imagine how Jesus was tempted in the same way we are today, but Scripture records it. We need to take it by faith. Matthew records Satan tempted Jesus with ‘the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life.’ (Mt.4:1-11) And Jesus withstood the temptations. By coming in the flesh and taking on our physical nature Jesus can sympathize with our struggles and is there to help us through the Holy Spirit.

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.” (Heb.4:15 esv)  

Read: Hebrews 2:14-18 ESV – Since therefore the children share in – Bible Gateway

Listen to Silent Night: