“Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!” (Philippians 2:6-8 NIV)

There are people in the world who say all religions are alike. But these verses clearly set Christianity apart from all other world religions. Every religion notes the fact that there is something wrong with humankind’s relationship with God. That is almost universally accepted. The distinction begins when these religions begin to bridge the relationship gap. Every other religion in the world places the responsibility upon people to bridge that gap. Somehow by prayer, sacrifice, service, devotion, obedience, etc., people are responsible to correct the situation and get themselves right with God. Only Christianity suggests a different way to bridge the gap. Only Christianity places the burden squarely upon God’s shoulders. The Christian Gospel is about a covenant God who remains true to His Word and fulfills His promises, even when we are unfaithful (2 Timothy 2:13).

So, Jesus, although He was God, became a man so that He might redeem and save us from our sins and provide us the righteousness that God requires. No other religion in the world provides a covenant-redeeming God of love. Jesus set His divine nature aside that He might live and die as our substitute. All the other religions of the world attempt to answer the question, “What does man have to do to get right with God?” In contrast, Christianity declares what God has done to make us right with Him.

Ponder for a few moments that the God of the universe humbled Himself and became like us so that He might love, redeem and save us.

Peace!

Pastor Tom

www.firmlyrooted.church