Shameless Popery #237 Why Christmas Was Unnecessary (sorta)
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Dec 30, 2025 Discover why Christmas and the incarnation, though not strictly necessary, hold profound significance. Explore Augustine's intriguing objection about the necessity of God's becoming man. Delve into Aquinas’ insights on fitting versus strict necessity, and uncover five compelling reasons for the incarnation that foster faith, hope, and charity. Learn how Christ’s example inspires moral actions and reveals human dignity. Finally, hear Pope Leo’s inspiring reflections on overcoming fear and embracing transformation through Christ.
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Incarnation Inspires Love
- The incarnation enkindles charity by showing God's radical love and prompting a human response of love.
- Joe urges those slow to love to hasten to love in return to Christ's example.
God Became Visible So We Could Follow
- God became visible in Christ so humans could follow a real example of well-doing.
- Joe emphasizes the value of a visible teacher rather than abstract invisible commands.
Incarnation Enables Theosis
- The incarnation enables divinization: by uniting humanity to divinity we are invited into God's life.
- Joe explains this is the Christian goal: to partake of the divine nature via Christ's humanity.
