The Humanity of Christ: A Reflection on John 11:35
In the Gospel of John, we find a poignant expression of Christ’s humanity: “Jesus wept” (John 11:35). This brief statement speaks volumes about the nature of our Savior and his relationship with us.
A Voluntary Submission to Human Emotions
Christ’s tears were not simply a reflexive response to the sorrow around him. Rather, they were a deliberate choice to empathize with those who were grieving. As John Calvin notes, “He voluntarily empathizes with the mourners, even to the point of crying with them.” This act of voluntary submission to human emotions underscores the depth of Christ’s commitment to us.
The Implications of Christ’s Humanity
But what does it mean for Christ to be human in this way? Some might argue that his divinity precludes him from truly experiencing human emotions. However, Calvin suggests that Christ’s humanity is not diminished by his divinity. Instead, he chooses to experience our emotions, making him a true brother to us in every way except sin.
A Mediator Who Understands Our Weaknesses
This understanding of Christ’s humanity has profound implications for our relationship with him. As our Mediator, he is prepared to help us in our weaknesses, having experienced them himself. His voluntary submission to human emotions demonstrates his willingness to pardon us and support us in our times of need.
A Reflection of Christ’s Glory
Far from diminishing Christ’s glory, this understanding of his humanity actually enhances it. By choosing to experience our emotions, Christ demonstrates the depths of his love and commitment to us. As Calvin notes, “This is how we take none of Christ’s glory away from him when we say that it was only a voluntary submission by which it came to pass that he was like us in the emotions of the soul.”
A Call to Reflect on Christ’s Nature
As we reflect on John 11:35, we are invited to consider the profound implications of Christ’s humanity. May we come to know him more deeply as our brother, Mediator, and Savior, who willingly chose to experience our emotions in order to support us in our weaknesses.
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