Made in God’s Image
Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness. They will rule the fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, the livestock, the whole earth, and the creatures that crawl on the earth.
Genesis 1:26 (CSB)
Genesis 1:26 introduces the concept of the imago dei. The imago dei is the theological truth that humanity has been created in the image of God. When we speak of the imago dei, we must recognize that we are discussing the perfect role and function of humanity prior to the fall. Post-fall, humanity remains in the image of God, but this image is now affected by sin, highlighting the need for a Redeemer.
THE TRINITY IN CREATION
Before examining two critical truths about the image of God, note that Genesis 1:26 affirms the presence of the Trinity at creation. The passage states, “Let us make man.” The phrase “Let us” reveals the presence of the Trinity. We understand that the Father spoke, the Son created, and the Spirit brought life. This truth lays the foundation for the creation of humanity in God’s image.
THE ABILITY TO RULE
God holds ultimate authority over all creation. When we explore the nature of the Lord, we recognize that He is all-powerful, all-knowing, and ever-present, possessing the authority to rule over creation as the one true Creator. The Lord entrusted humanity alone with the role of having authority over the creatures of the world. This position of authority mirrors the nature of the Lord’s authority. The ability to exercise dominion is part of the created order that comes from being made in the image of God.
THE ROLE TO REPRESENT
God not only provided humanity with the ability to have dominion over the animals, but He created them to serve as His representatives in this task. As humanity tends to, watches over, and rules over creation, it does so not in its own strength and authority, but in the authority of the Creator. We serve as ambassadors and representatives of the One who holds all authority and true power. Thus, being made in the image of God means that we serve as representatives of the Creator.
QUESTIONS
How do you strive to reflect the character of the Lord in your daily life as one who is created in the image of God?
How does understanding being created in the image of God reshape the way we understand our identity and purpose in life?
