Eternal Logos; Son existed before incarnation; creator and sustainer of all
The Church of the Brethren affirm that Jesus Christ, God's Son, existed before His incarnation. He is the eternal Logos (Word) through whom all things were created and are sustained. This is the clear teaching of John 1:1-3 and Colossians 1:15-17.
Christ's pre-existence is essential to understanding His deity. The incarnation was not the beginning of Christ's existence but rather God the Son taking on human flesh. The pre-existent Christ is the one who appeared to the patriarchs, guided Israel, and spoke through the prophets.
Most Church of the Brethren members affirm Christ's pre-existence, though some influenced by liberal theology may interpret the doctrine more metaphorically. The mainstream position is traditional and Nicene, affirming the eternal deity of Christ.
Key Distinctions
- Preexistence affirmed:
- eternal; coequal with Father from beginning
- Eternal nature:
- Christ as Word through whom creation occurred
Scripture References
Sources
- Church of the Brethren Church Manual and confessions
- Nicene Creed (affirmed by the denomination)
- CoB theological education materials