Definition
The image of a God is a biblical doctrine regarding the nature and purpose of mankind. Genesis 1:27 states that God made man “in his own image,” meaning that the human race was granted a particular likeness to God.
Summary
Just as Seth bore the “likeness and image” of his father Adam (Gen. 5:3), God made Adam and Eve to bear his image and likeness. Historical theology has often grounded the image of God in mankind’s superiority over lesser creatures, given man’s higher rationality and spirituality, and especially in human’s capacity to know and worship God. Further reflection notes that as “male and female,” mankind bears God’s image in a community of love. The emphasis in Genesis 1:26 on man’s dominion above the other creatures argues for mankind’s viceregency in accountability to God. New Testament reflection on the divine image highlights that man was made for covenant communion with God in righteousness and holiness. While the Fall has marred the image of God – shattering the righteousness and holiness in which we were first made – God sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to redeem mankind and restore the image of God “in true righteousness and holiness” (Eph. 4:24).
Articles
What Women Need to Know About Being Image-Bearers of God
God is not standing with a checklist waiting to see if you qualify as a proper woman of God or if you’re good enough to bear his image.
How Student Success Can Call Forth the Imago Dei
When we intervene to bring healing, we bear the image of God who sent his Son to intervene for us.
I’m Not Just an Image-Bearer
I’m not just God’s image-bearer; I’m his gospel representative too. I can love others best by being an intentional witness to his grace and truth.
Shame, the Image of God, and Finding Freedom to Love
Everyone is fighting a hidden battle with shame. The greatest joy of the Christian pastor is getting to tell people that a remedy exists.
Book Reviews
Why We Need, More Than Ever Before, a Theology of Mankind
The church took at least two centuries to reflect on the depths of the Trinity and three on the mysteries of Christology. Our theological reflection on humanity is only just beginning.
A Book on Dignity for All Has Much to Teach the Church
“The most sympathetic treatment of poor, broken Americans that I can recall ever reading.”
