Meaning: The quote "In the first place, our faith ought to lay hold on Christ as God and man in that nature by which He has been made our neighbor, kinsman, and brother" by Martin Chemnitz, a prominent Lutheran theologian, reflects the fundamental aspect of Christian faith and the nature of Christ. In this quote, Chemnitz emphasizes the dual nature of Christ as both divine and human, and the significance of this duality in establishing a profound connection between Christ and humanity. This concept is central to Christian theology and has been a subject of contemplation and discussion for centuries.

The quote underscores the idea that Christ, as both God and man, embodies a unique and deeply personal relationship with humanity. By taking on human nature, Christ becomes not only a divine figure but also a neighbor, kinsman, and brother to all humanity. This aspect of Christ's nature is essential in understanding the Christian belief in the incarnation, the belief that God became flesh in the form of Jesus Christ to dwell among humanity.

In the Christian faith, the belief in the dual nature of Christ has profound implications for the understanding of salvation and the relationship between God and humanity. Christ's human nature allows for empathy and understanding of human experiences, while His divine nature ensures the power to redeem and reconcile humanity with God. This union of divinity and humanity in Christ is the cornerstone of Christian belief and is often referred to as the hypostatic union.

The quote by Chemnitz also highlights the importance of faith in apprehending Christ in his dual nature. For Christians, faith is not merely an intellectual assent to doctrinal truths but a personal and transformative connection with the person of Christ. This faith involves laying hold of Christ as both God and man, recognizing and embracing the profound implications of His unique nature for the salvation and restoration of humanity.

Furthermore, the emphasis on Christ as our neighbor, kinsman, and brother serves as a reminder of the intimate and relational aspect of the Christian faith. Christ's identification with humanity as a neighbor and kinsman underscores His solidarity with individuals in their joys and sufferings, their struggles and triumphs. This understanding of Christ's role as a brother to humanity emphasizes the familial bond and the sense of belonging that believers have in their relationship with Christ.

In summary, Martin Chemnitz's quote encapsulates the essential Christian belief in the dual nature of Christ as both God and man, and the profound implications of this nature for the relationship between Christ and humanity. It underscores the intimate and personal connection between Christ and individuals, emphasizing His role as a neighbor, kinsman, and brother. This quote serves as a reminder of the foundational truths of the Christian faith and the transformative power of faith in apprehending the nature of Christ.