"Why God Became Man" by Lehman Strauss.

Why God Became Man is an article written by Lehman Strauss. The thesis of this article is the incarnation of Jesus Christ and why it was necessary for the redemption of fallen man. Strauss uses a plethora of biblical reference in creating and supporting his arguments and has a clear understanding of the topic even unto differentiating incarnation and virgin birth which according to Strauss causes some confusion. His arguments are constructed using historically accurate information and biblical references; however, he does not cite sources either in text or bibliographically with respect to ideas presented that are not common knowledge or simple to research (i.e., Bible references, Docetism, etc.). There were no clear opposing arguments to Strauss’ views, explanations, and commentaries. The article was of one opinion; an opinion nonetheless Strauss presents quite persuasively. Strauss focused very clearly on the incarnation of Christ, His purpose for doing so and the cost and sacrifice to Himself and of Himself. The flow of the article and the use of biblical reference moved seamlessly throughout; this made it straightforward to read and grasp the focus of the piece. It was not difficult to agree with a great majority of the article’s infrastructure as Strauss’ use of biblical references melded well with his topic, it would have been appropriate to cite sources that agree with his view of the topic and allow the reader to note varying opinions in order to make a more informed judgment of the material. Overall the topic was interesting, the author’s writing style was engaging and the flow of the piece worked well.  The nature and topic of the article would absolutely lead the Christian to seek more information, and most assuredly gain a greater appreciation for the work of redemption of Christ - for this Strauss is applauded.

                                                                                                                    

          The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines faith as a firm belief in something for which there is no proof; complete trust. As I read through Strauss’ article and notwithstanding his areas of strength and weaknesses, I have come to the conclusion that in the end Lehman is right about the necessity of Christ’s incarnation. Now, some would argue, not in the need for it, but rather in the idea that it could happen to begin with. A man born of a virgin by the grace of the Holy Spirit is actually God Himself becoming so to redeem His fallen and helpless creation, that is quite something. John Hicks is quoted as saying, and I paraphrase – trying to persuade the fact of Christ, a man, as being God is like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. Whereas the Council of Chalcedon states, Jesus Christ is at once complete in Godhead and complete in manhood, truly God and truly man, consisting of a reasonable soul and body. So how do I reckon reality and embrace the truth of the incarnation of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ? Simple, the Word of God. 1 Thess. 2:13 says, “Therefore, we never stop thanking God that when you received his message from us, you didn't think of our words as mere human ideas. You accepted what we said as the very word of God--which, of course, it is. And this word continues to work in you who believe.” (NLT) I have received His Word, and in so doing I obtained faith, and “so faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ. Romans 10:17 (NASB). I can try to rationalize the fact of Christ’s incarnation and probably arrive at reasons why it cannot be true, but I know that I can trust the Word of God and by faith I receive it. It is the issue of faith or lack thereof that leads many to their downfall.