PRE-EXISTENCE OF CHRIST
“The Idea That Jesus Christ, as the Son of God, Existed Before His Earthly Incarnation”
THE PRE-EXISTENCE OF CHRIST
“The Idea That Jesus Christ, as the Son of God, Existed Before His Earthly Incarnation”
GREEK TERMINOLOGY
In Greek, the term “pre-existence” is typically expressed as “προϋπάρχουσα” (pronounced proy-PAHR-khoo-sah) or “προϋπάρχων” (pronounced proy-PAHR-khon), which convey the idea of existing beforehand or prior existence. These words can be used to describe something that exists or occurs before a particular point in time or before something else.
When discussing the pre-existence of Christ in Greek theological terms, the concept is often referred to as “προϋπάρχουσα του Χριστού,” which translates to “the pre-existence of Christ.” This concept is the center of Christian theology and refers to the faith that Jesus Christ, as the Son of God, existed before his earthly incarnation and the world’s creation. With its rich history and precise terminology, the Greek language has been instrumental in shaping and articulating these theological ideas.
The Pre-Existence of Christ:
Exploring a Profound Theological Concept
The pre-existence of Christ is a foundational theological concept within Christianity. It posits that Jesus Christ, as the Son of God, existed before his earthly incarnation. This belief is rooted in various passages from the New Testament, particularly in the Gospel of John and the writings of the Apostle Paul. In this article, we will delve into the rich theological implications of the pre-existence of Christ, examining the biblical foundation, historical development, and its significance in Christian theology.
BIBLICAL FOUNDATION
The biblical foundation for the pre-existence of Christ is most notably found in the Gospel of John. John’s Gospel opens with a profound declaration that has resonated with Christians throughout history: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1). This verse introduces the concept of the “Word,” which is often understood to refer to Jesus Christ. It asserts that Christ existed “in the beginning,” indicating his eternal nature.
Continuing in John 1, we read, “He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him, nothing was made that has been made” (John 1:2–3). These verses emphasize the role of the pre-existent Word in the creation of the universe, highlighting Christ’s divine agency in the act of creation.
Moreover, John 1:14 states, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” This verse bridges the gap between the pre-existent Word and the incarnation of Jesus. It signifies that the Word, who was with God in the beginning, took on human form and became Jesus Christ.
The Apostle Paul also contributes to the biblical foundation of Christ’s pre-existence. In his letter to the Philippians, Paul writes, “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” (Philippians 2:6–7). These verses affirm both the divinity of Christ and his willingness to take on human form, highlighting the pre-existence of the Son of God.
Another significant passage is found in Colossians 1:15–17, where Paul declares, “The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created… all things have been created through him and for him.” This passage underscores Christ’s role in creation and further supports the idea of his pre-existence.
HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT
The concept of the pre-existence of Christ played a pivotal role in early Christian theology and was a subject of theological debates in the early centuries of the church. As Christianity spread and encountered various philosophical and religious traditions, theologians sought to articulate and defend this belief.
One of the most influential figures in shaping the doctrine of Christ’s pre-existence was Athanasius of Alexandria (c. 296–373 AD). Athanasius vehemently defended the divinity of Christ against the Arian heresy, which denied Christ’s co-eternity with the Father. His writings, particularly the “Orations Against the Arians,” emphasized the eternal nature of the Son of God and helped solidify the orthodox position on Christ’s pre-existence.
The Nicene Creed, formulated at the First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, also addressed the issue of Christ’s pre-existence. It affirms that Jesus Christ is “eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father.” This creed became a cornerstone of Christian orthodoxy and affirmed the belief in Christ’s eternal existence with the Father.
Throughout the centuries, theologians such as Augustine of Hippo, Thomas Aquinas contributed to the development and refinement of the doctrine of Christ’s pre-existence. Their writings delved into the complexities of Christology, exploring questions related to the nature of Christ and his relationship with the Father.
SIGNIFICANCE IN CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY
The doctrine of the pre-existence of Christ holds profound significance in Christian theology for several reasons:
Incarnation:
It underscores the astonishing truth that the divine Son of God willingly entered into human history by taking on human flesh. This act of self-emptying, known as the “Kenosis,” demonstrates the depth of God’s love and commitment to humanity.
Salvation:
Christ’s pre-existence is intricately linked to the Christian understanding of salvation. His eternal nature allows for the belief that his redemptive work on the cross has the power to reconcile humanity with God, bridging the gap created by sin.
Divine Identity:
The doctrine reaffirms Christ’s divinity. He is not merely a moral teacher or a prophet but the very Son of God who has eternally existed with the Father. This understanding has profound implications for Christian worship and devotion.
Creation:
The biblical passages that connect Christ with the act of creation highlight his role as the divine agent in shaping the universe. This reinforces the Christian belief that all of creation is ultimately under his authority.
Trinitarian Theology:
The doctrine of the pre-existence of Christ is closely tied to the Christian doctrine of the Trinity. It addresses the relationship between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, helping to shape the understanding of the triune Godhead.
CONCLUSION:
The pre-existence of Christ is a foundational concept in Christian theology, rooted in the New Testament and developed through centuries of theological reflection. It serves as a cornerstone of the Christian faith, emphasizing the eternal nature of Jesus Christ, his role in creation, and his significance in the salvation of humanity.
Understanding this doctrine enriches the Christian understanding of God’s love, the nature of Christ, and the relationship between the Creator and his creation.
May God bless us all!
By: John U. Ordillo
To explore more click the link below:
