Chapter 1: God With Us

Chapter 1: God With Us

"His name shall be called Immanuel, . . . God with us." Matthew 1:23.
--From the days of eternity the Lord Jesus Christ was one with the

Father; He was "the image of God," (2 Corinthians 4:4).

--To this sin-darkened earth He came to reveal the light of God's love,—to be "God with us." Therefore it was prophesied of Him, "His name shall be called Immanuel."

--He was the Word of God,—God's thought made audible.
--In the beginning, God was revealed in all the works of creation.
--In heaven itself this law was broken. Sin originated in self-seeking. Lucifer, the covering cherub, desired to be first in heaven. Lucifer had said, "I will exalt my throne above the stars of God; . . . I will be like the Most High." Isaiah 14:13, 14.
--With his own evil characteristics he sought to invest the loving Creator. 

--Thus he deceived angels.--

--Thus he deceived men.--

*The plan for our redemption was not an afterthought, a plan formulated after the fall of Adam. It was a revelation of "the mystery which hath been kept in silence through times eternal." Romans 16:25. This great purpose had been shadowed forth in types and symbols. His divinity was veiled with humanity,—the invisible glory in the visible human form.
--In stooping to take upon Himself humanity, Christ revealed a character the opposite of the character of Satan. But He stepped still lower in the path of humiliation. "Being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." Philippians 2:8. 

Christ was treated as we deserve, 

that we might be treated as He deserves. 

 "He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him." Isaiah 53:5.
Through Christ's redeeming work the government of God stands justified.
And through endless ages as the redeemed walk in the light of the Lord, they will praise Him for His unspeakable Gift,—Immanuel, "God with us."