Cur Deus Homo? (Why [the] God-Man?)

Cur Deus Homo? Is the title of a book by Anselm of Canterbury (1033-1109) in which he asks, "Why did God become man?" Have you wondered this yourself? --Why does God not simply forgive us, without the necessity of the cross? At this time in the year we tend to spend a little bit more time meditating on the cross, thinking about our sin and maybe even some of us seeking a closer walk with Christ and a deeper understanding of His grace. If we fail to see God for who He is and if we fail to see our sin for what it is we are tempted to minimize God and our own nature and by doing so we will short-circuit the process of growing in grace.

So, why the God-Man? If we sin against one another, we are required to forgive one another. Why does God not do it the same way? Why can't he simply forgive? Anselm's answer was, "if anyone imagines that God can simply forgive us as we forgive others, that person has not yet considered the seriousness of sin. That person has not yet considered what a heavy weight sin is." But furthermore, that person has also not yet considered the majesty of God. As John Stott says, "It is when our perception of God and man, or of holiness and sin, are askew that our understanding of the atonement is bound to be askew also."

When we sin against another man, it is two people who stand as equals. But when we sin against God, we are sinning against the Maker of the universe, a majestic and sovereign God! He is not our equal! Why the God-Man?, because we are sinful, responsible, guilty and lost! There was no other way for our condition to be rectified. Rejoice in Christ who saves sinners! Find hope in Him, for the God-Man is your only hope!