Introduction
The figure of Jesus Christ stands at the very centre of human history and divine redemption. His life and mission are not just pivotal to Christianity but also to the destiny of humanity. More than a prophet and more than a teacher, Jesus is the Son of God, sent into the world to save mankind from sin and to reconcile humanity back to its Creator. His coming was not accidental or incidental; it was part of God’s eternal plan to redeem a lost world. Every aspect of His earthly life, His birth, lifestyle, miracles, death, and resurrection, reveals the depth of God’s love and His desire for a restored relationship with humankind. Through Jesus, we see the fullness of God’s plan expressed: a plan of salvation, mercy, justice, and everlasting life. This article focuses on two foundational aspects of that plan: the birth of Jesus Christ and His lifestyle, which together reveal God’s character and set an example for all believers to follow.
The Birth of Jesus Christ
The birth of Jesus was not just an ordinary historical event; it was a moment of divine intervention a fulfilment of prophecy, a demonstration of God’s faithfulness, and the beginning of humanity’s redemption story.
A Birth Foretold by Prophets: Long before Jesus was born, the prophets of Israel foretold His coming. The prophet Isaiah, writing about 700 years before Christ’s birth, declared: “Therefore, the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” – Isaiah 7:14 (KJV). This prophecy revealed that the coming of the Messiah would be miraculous; born of a virgin and called Immanuel, meaning God with us. It was a promise of divine presence and salvation for humanity.
A Supernatural Conception: The prophecy was fulfilled when the Virgin Mary conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit. The angel Gabriel announced this miraculous event: “And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.” – Luke 1:30–31 (KJV). This conception was unlike any other in human history. Jesus was not born through the will of man but by the divine will of God. This miraculous beginning affirmed His identity as both fully human and fully divine; able to represent humanity and yet powerful enough to save it.
Humble Beginnings with Heavenly Significance: Although He was the King of kings, Jesus was born in the most humble of circumstances. Laid in a manger because there was no room in the inn (Luke 2:7), “And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn”. His birth was far from royal by earthly standards. Yet, heaven recognised its significance. Angels announced the good news to the shepherds: “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” – Luke 2:11 (KJV). This contrast of humility on earth and glory in heaven teaches a profound truth: God’s ways are not measured by human standards. Greatness in God’s kingdom is often clothed in humility.
A Symbol of Hope and Light: The birth of Jesus Christ symbolized hope and light breaking into a world overshadowed by sin and darkness. John described Him as: “That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.” – John 1:9 (KJV). His coming was the dawn of a new era, one marked by grace, forgiveness, and the possibility of eternal life. Through Jesus, humanity was offered a way back to God.
The Lifestyle of Jesus Christ
While the birth of Jesus was a divine miracle, the life He lived was a divine example. Jesus’ lifestyle was a living expression of God’s character, a model of how every believer is called to live. His life was marked by humility, compassion, holiness, obedience, and service.
A Life of Humility: Although Jesus was the Son of God, He chose to live a humble and simple life. He did not come as a conquering king or a political leader but as a servant, even though he was God, identifying with the lowly and the oppressed. “And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” – Philippians 2:8 (KJV). Humility was at the heart of His mission. As followers of Christ, humility should also define our character. Our words, actions, and attitudes should reflect the nature of Christ so that those around us can see Him in the way we live.
A Life of Compassion and Love: Love was the driving force behind everything Jesus did. He was deeply moved by the suffering of others, healing the sick, feeding the hungry, comforting the broken-hearted, and welcoming the outcast. “But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them…” – Matthew 9:36 (KJV). Without love, Jesus’ mission would not have been possible. He taught that love is the greatest commandment: “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” – Mark 12:31 (KJV). “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” – John 13:34–35 (KJV). For believers, this is a call to action. Love should not be just an emotion but a lifestyle expressed through kindness, forgiveness, service, and genuine care for others.
A Life of Holiness: Jesus lived a sinless life, even though He was tempted in every way. “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.” Hebrews 4:15 (KJV). His holiness was so evident that Pontius Pilate, who presided over His trial, declared: “I find no basis for a charge against Him.” His purity of life demonstrated God’s standard of righteousness and set an example for all believers. “Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” – 1 Peter 1:16 (KJV). Holiness is not about perfectionism but about living a life set apart for God, resisting sin, pursuing righteousness, and reflecting God’s nature in everyday life.
A Life of Obedience: Jesus’ obedience to the Father was absolute and unwavering. His mission on earth was not self-driven but fully aligned with God’s will. “Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.” – John 4:34 (KJV). Even His death on the cross was an act of obedience. He surrendered His life for the salvation of humanity, demonstrating the depth of His commitment to God’s plan. “For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:45 (KJV). Obedience remains a defining mark of true discipleship. To follow Christ is to surrender our will to His
and to pursue His purpose above all else.
The life of Jesus Christ, from His miraculous birth to His exemplary lifestyle, reveals the very heart of God. His birth brought hope, light, and salvation into a dark world. His life showed us how to live humbly, lovingly, holy, and obediently in alignment with God’s will. For believers, Jesus is not just a Saviour to worship but also a model to follow. To truly call ourselves His disciples, we must reflect His character in our daily lives. As we embrace the message of His birth and imitate the example of His lifestyle, we participate in God’s redemptive plan and become living witnesses of His love to the world. “He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” – 1 John 2:6 (KJV)