Dictionary of Bible Themes Humanity is created in the image or likeness of God. This image of God, given in creation, was damaged in the fall, but may be restored through Jesus Christ. Genesis 1:26-27Humanity created in God's image See also Genesis 5:1-2Image and likeness are probably synonymous terms in Hebrew parallelism. No physical likeness between God and humanity is intended. 1 Corinthians 11:7,11-12Paul implies that the divine image is associated in the first place with men Although Paul at points seems to imply that the image of God is especially associated with males, he does not imply that this involves male supremacy: Genesis 9:6James 3:9 Respect for human life in God's image Genesis 1:26See also The divine image implies partnership with God in the stewardship of creation Psalms 8:3-8Matthew 5:48 See also The divine image includes imitating God's love and justice Deuteronomy 10:17-19Romans 3:23 The image of God disfigured, though not totally destroyed, in the fall See also Genesis 3:17-19Fallen humanity in contention with creation Deuteronomy 22:6-7Isaiah 7:23-25 Fallen humanity and the exploitation of nature Philippians 2:6Jesus Christ the image of God Colossians 1:15See also 2 Corinthians 4:4Hebrews 1:3 He is the exact representation of God John 1:18He reveals God John 1:4Jesus Christ is the perfect human being See also John 1:9,14Philippians 2:7 Hebrews 2:17 Romans 8:29 Restoration of the divine image through Jesus Christ See also The divine image is renewed in all who are united with him by faith 2 Corinthians 3:18Ephesians 1:13-14; 4:22-24 Colossians 3:9-10 1 Corinthians 15:49 1 John 3:2 The promise of complete restoration in the future See also 1 Corinthians 15:42,45-48Philippians 3:21 2 Corinthians 3:18 See also The Christian life as a process of transformation 1325 God, the Creator2063 Christ, perfection 3233 Holy Spirit & sanctification 5034 likeness 5082 Adam, significance 5700 headship 6157 fall, of Satan 6728 regeneration 7020 church, the 8206 Christlikeness 8324 purity 8471 respect for human beings |
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