As I was studying for my Introduction to Christian Thought final exam, I came across this quote from Alister McGrath’s Historical Theology that I found applicable during this advent season:

“Alexandrian writers placed considerable emphasis upon the idea of the Logos assuming human nature. The term ‘assuming’ is important; a distinction is drawn between the Logos ‘dwelling within humanity’ (as in the case of the Old Testament prophets), and the Logos taking human nature upon itself (as in the incarnation of the Son of God). Particular emphasis came to be placed upon John 1:14 (‘the word became flesh’) which came to embody the fundamental insights of the school, and the liturgical celebration of Christmas. To celebrate the birth of Christ was to celebrate the coming of the Logos to the world, and its taking human nature upon itself in order to redeem it.” (51-52)