In being born, Jesus assumed the nature of humanity, and, in so doing,
more than restored to man the likeness to God which our first parents
lost, for themselves and their descendants, through the Fall. He thereby
made it possible for God to dwell with man, and for man to rise into
communion with God. Sin had effaced the Divine image, and no other than
the Son of God could give back to men the power to reflect in their own
lives the character of God. His possession of the human nature gives us
confidence in approaching Him, by assuring us of His brotherhood and
sympathy; while His possession of the Divine nature assures us that He
can make His brotherhood and sympathy effectual.


* * * * *




ARTICLE 4


_Suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried_

SECTION 1.--SUFFERED UNDER PONTIUS PILATE


The preceding articles of the Creed appeal to faith. They so far
transcend reason that they can be apprehended only when reason is
sustained by faith. This article, which affirms that Jesus "suffered
under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried," is a simple
historical statement. Pilate is a historic person, the details of whose