Made in the Image of God

What are we made of? Sometimes that question is asked when going through a trial in life. When we have to endure, and we are being refined, we often find out what we are made of. But that question is more about emotional and psychological perseverance than our soul.

Just a few words into the sacred scripture known as the Bible it states:

Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. -Genesis 1:26

What does this mean? Well, it is important to note that the word, “man” alludes to all humans and then a few sentences later in verse 27 it explicitly distinguishes males and females but states that both were made in the likeness of God.

How are humans like God? Another question to ask is how are humans unlike or unique compared to the rest of creation? Although humans are created, they are different than the rest of creation. We have the ability to rule or lead all other creation like God. Rocks do not do this. We have the ability to relate to each as friends like God. Monkeys do not do this. Apes don’t fly to France and go sightseeing after a romantic dinner. We have the ability to think and use intelligence to create, shape, and maintain like God. Trees do not have the ability to do this. We also have the capacity to worship God with intentionality. We can follow Him, relate to Him, obey Him, and even refuse Him. The rest of earthly creation does not have this ability.

Because we were made in the image of God, we have intrinsic value. That means that we are the pinnacle of creation and we are not just valuable because of what we can or cannot do but because of who we are even in our failures. That means all humans are significant and worth dignity. Each of us has the responsibility to love others LIKE God does. He gives us dignity. He relates to us. He speaks to us.

At COR, we are discussing the origin, nature, and character of man this Sunday. We would enjoy your presence. Come with questions and do not feel that you need all the answers. We are still learning too.