Dictionary of Bible Themes: 5023 image of God

5023 image of God

Dictionary of Bible Themes

Dictionary of Bible Themes » 5000 Humanity » 0 » 5023 image of God

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.

Humanity created in God's image

Genesis 1:26-27 Image and likeness are probably synonymous terms in Hebrew parallelism. No physical likeness between God and humanity is intended. See also Genesis 5:1-2

Paul 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:

1 Corinthians 11:7,11-12

Respect for human life in God's image

Genesis 9:6; James 3:9

The divine image implies partnership with God in the stewardship of creation

Genesis 1:26 See also Psalm 8:3-8

The divine image includes imitating God's love and justice

Matthew 5:48 See also Deuteronomy 10:17-19

The image of God disfigured, though not totally destroyed, in the fall

Romans 3:23

Fallen humanity in contention with creation

See also Genesis 3:17-19

Fallen humanity and the exploitation of nature