Jesus of Nazareth - Had the Flesh and Bones of a Man

Centuries ago there was a sect of Gnosticism known as Docetism which taught Jesus was only a spirit, not human.

Today, some think Jesus could not experience pain or be tempted since He was also deity.

The Bible teaches Jesus had a physical body; e.g., John 1:1-14. Those who think that Christ did not have a physical body should remember the disciple Thomas. He would not believe Jesus was resurrected until, “…I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side….” When Thomas examined His body, he exclaimed “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:25,28).

If Jesus were only spirit it would invalidate both His death and resurrection; which has serious consequence. The apostle Paul wrote, “For if the dead do not rise, then Christ is not risen. And if Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins! Then also those who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable.” (1 Corinthians 15:16-19).

The temptations and suffering of Christ were part of His preparation for being our high priest. “Therefore, in all things He had to be made like His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted.” (Hebrews 2:17-18). Also, “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.” (Hebrews 4:15).

Considering all the people who touched Jesus while on the earth, it is impossible to believe Jesus was just a spirit. We need to treasure the words spoken by Jesus - "Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” (John 20:29).

Jesus was not just a spirit.

David R. Kenney - 03/04/03

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