The phrase "every man" appears frequently throughout the Bible, often emphasizing individual responsibility, accountability, and the universality of certain truths or commands. In the context of Scripture, "every man" can refer to all humanity, individual men, or mankind in general, depending on the passage.

Creation and the Image of God

In Genesis 1:27, it is stated, "So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them." This foundational verse establishes that every man, along with every woman, is made in the image of God, affirming the inherent dignity and worth of each individual.

Sin and Accountability

The concept of individual accountability is a recurring theme. In Ezekiel 18:4, the Lord declares, "Behold, every soul belongs to Me; both father and son are Mine. The soul who sins is the one who will die." This underscores the personal responsibility each person has for their own actions and the consequences of sin.

The Call to Righteousness

Throughout the Bible, every man is called to live righteously and justly. Micah 6:8 states, "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" This verse highlights the moral and ethical standards expected of every individual.

The Universality of Sin and Redemption

Romans 3:23 affirms, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." This verse speaks to the universal nature of sin affecting every man. However, the promise of redemption is also universal, as seen in Romans 5:18: "So then, just as one trespass brought condemnation for all men, so also one act of righteousness brought justification and life for all men."

Gifts and Responsibilities

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul speaks of the diversity of gifts given to every man for the edification of the church. In 1 Corinthians 12:7, it is written, "Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good." This indicates that every man has a role and responsibility within the body of Christ.

Judgment and Reward

The Bible teaches that every man will stand before God in judgment. 2 Corinthians 5:10 states, "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive his due for the things done in the body, whether good or bad." This emphasizes the accountability of every individual for their actions in life.

Conclusion

The phrase "every man" in the Bible serves as a reminder of the individual and collective responsibilities of humanity. It underscores the themes of creation, sin, redemption, and judgment, calling each person to live in accordance with God's will and purpose.