The Incarnation offers theological validation for varied corporeal experiences. It is a foundational belief of Christian theology that God became human in Jesus Christ. According to this doctrine, Jesus was both fully divine and fully human; he experienced all aspects of human existence while remaining sinless. This includes physical sensations like hunger, pain, fatigue, and pleasure.
The Incarnation and Physical Sensation
The incarnation implies that God took on human form to experience physical sensation. In the Bible, it states that Jesus was "in all things made like his brethren" (Hebrews 2:17) and was tempted in all points as we are (Hebrews 4:15). He felt pain when he was crucified (Matthew 26:39), thirst when he was dying (John 19:28), and sorrow over the death of Lazarus (John 11:35).
Diverse Corporeal Experiences
Experience refers to sensory perceptions or bodily feelings. While some people may argue that sexuality is outside the scope of Christian theology, others believe that the incarnation provides validation for diverse corporeal experiences such as sex, gender identity, and eroticism.
The Incarnation and Sexuality
Sexuality encompasses more than just physical intimacy between two individuals but can be seen as an expression of self-identity. As humans, we seek affirmation through touch, affection, and attraction. The incarnation suggests that these desires are not inherently evil but rather part of our created nature.
The Incarnation and Gender Identity
Gender identity involves how individuals perceive themselves, including their physical appearance, behavior, and emotions. Some people feel a sense of disconnect between their inner self and external body.
The incarnation reminds us that God created us male and female (Genesis 1:27) and has knit us together in our mother's womb (Psalm 139:13). We should embrace our unique identities within this beautiful diversity.
The Incarnation and Eroticism
Eroticism involves passionate desire or sexual arousal. It can be seen as natural and healthy when expressed within committed relationships. In the Song of Solomon, we see erotic imagery used to describe God's love for his people (Song of Solomon 4:16). This implies that intimate pleasure is validated by the creator himself.
The incarnation provides validation for diverse corporeal experiences such as sex, gender identity, and eroticism. These aspects of human experience are part of God's creation and should be embraced within the boundaries of faithfulness and purity.
Does the incarnation itself offer theological validation for diverse corporeal experiences?
The incarnation, as understood within Christian theology, involves Jesus Christ becoming fully human while also remaining fully divine. This means that God became embodied in the form of a human being so that He could live among humans and experience all of their joys and sorrows, including physical pain and suffering. The incarnation is often seen as an act of grace and mercy by God, who desired to be with His creation and understand it from a personal perspective.