Jesus had a pre-human existence. That fact is brought to light in John 1:1-3. In John 1:14 we read that “the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth.” That the Logos was made flesh, that is, transferred from his pre-human state to the state of manhood, is revealed in the Bible to be a fundamental feature of the plan of God. Hebrews 2:9,14 says that this was so he might die as a human being for the sins of the world.

In John 6:51 we find Jesus’ own explanation of the matter, and he says he would give his flesh for the life of the world. This sacrifice of Jesus’ humanity was as a substitute for the forfeited life of father Adam. Paul affirms that “As in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.” (I Cor. 15:22) In I Timothy 2:6 the apostle explains that Jesus gave himself a ransom for all, and the Greek word here translated “ransom” means “corresponding price.”

Here, then, is the philosophy of God’s plan of redemption through Christ. His only begotten Son was made flesh—perfect flesh—that he might become a substitute in death for condemned Adam, and thus provide a way of escape from death for Adam and all his race. Thus did Jesus die for all mankind.

The whole world praises the spirit of sacrifice on behalf of others, and recognizes its value in those who would rule over the people. All know the evil that results from a ruler seeking merely his own interests, his own welfare, his own advancement, and the increase of his own power, regardless of how others might be affected. Perhaps one of the most praise- worthy characteristics, when possessed by those who attempt to administer the affairs of government, is willingness to spend and be spent in the interests of the people.

But in all the annals of history, no ruler, no statesman, no president, king, emperor, or dictator has ever matched Jesus in his spirit of devotion, first to God and then to mankind. He “went about doing good,” the Scriptures tell us. (Acts 10:38) He used his strength to teach others, as daily he carried on his ministry of self-sacrifice. And finally he completed that wonderful life of service by voluntarily giving himself up to that cruel death on the cross.

Thus did the man Christ Jesus prove his faithfulness. The world will be able to trust such a noble character as they learn about him when his long-promised kingdom is established in the earth and functions as a world government for the blessing of the people.