The Image of God - Humans, Mission, and Jesus

The Image of God - Humans, Mission, and Jesus

In this insightful Bible teaching from Founded in Truth Fellowship, Matthew Vander Els explores the profound concept of humanity being created in the image of God. He begins by inviting listeners to consider their search for something bigger than themselves, a community rooted in truth and love, and a place to worship God. The teaching then delves into the overarching narrative of the Bible, suggesting that it culminates in the mission embodied by Jesus (Yeshua).

Vander Els emphasizes that the creation account in Genesis 1-3 is foundational, portraying God's initial design and intentions for humanity. He highlights the state of the earth before creation – tohu vavohu, often translated as formless and void, a desolate and watery chaos. God's method of creation is through speech, signifying the power and authority inherent in His word. The Hebrew word for create, bara, not only implies bringing something into existence but also giving it function and purpose.

The pivotal moment comes in Genesis 1:26-28, where God declares, "Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness." Vander Els stresses that this applies to all humanity, both male and female. He points out the shift from singular ("mankind," "his own image") to plural ("them," "he created them"), indicating that God desires a community of image-bearers who co-rule together. This community is commanded to be fruitful, increase in number, fill the earth, and subdue it, exercising dominion over creation. This subduing (kava) implies authoritative rule, akin to a king, and even suggests the trampling of sin.

To understand this role better, Vander Els examines the meaning of "image," the Hebrew word tselem. In the ancient world, tselem referred to statues, particularly idols representing pagan gods and statues of kings placed in temples or at borders to signify their authority. These statues were not seen as having power themselves but as representing and channeling the power of the deity or king. Vander Els argues that in the creation story, God doesn't create a physical statue of Himself but instead creates humanity to fill that role – to be His proxy on earth. Just as idols in pagan cultures were believed to be vessels for the spirit of the god, humans are intended to reflect God's will and character within creation.

The teaching further explores Genesis 2:7, where God forms man (Adam) from the dust (Adama) and breathes the breath of life (ruach) into his nostrils, making him a living being. This act of God molding man like a clay statue, a tselem, and then animating it with His spirit is presented as a profound act of significance. Vander Els emphasizes that this significance extends to all humans, regardless of their abilities or background, their purpose being to reflect God's reign and creative motives. The intention was for these image-bearers to fill the earth in unity, reflecting God's will towards each other and creation.

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Application for Everyday Life:

• Recognize the inherent worth and dignity of every person you encounter, understanding that they are created in God's image. This should influence how you treat and speak to everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs.
• Act as God's representative in your sphere of influence, reflecting His love, justice, and compassion in your actions and decisions.
• Use your words to speak life, encouragement, and truth. Be mindful of the power of your tongue and avoid using it to condemn or belittle others.
• Cultivate empathy and seek to understand the perspectives of those who hold different views. Engage in conversations with a genuine desire to listen and understand their concerns.
• Look for opportunities to actively participate in creating a more life-giving world. This could involve supporting organizations that care for the vulnerable, volunteering your time, or advocating for policies that promote human flourishing.
• Be self-sacrificial in your efforts to help others, mirroring God's outward-pouring nature.
• Stand up against injustice and advocate for those who are oppressed or marginalized, reflecting God's concern for the cries of the oppressed.
• Remember that your mission as an image-bearer extends beyond personal piety to actively engaging with the world around you.
• Continuously strive to reflect the perfected image of God, which is Jesus Christ, in all aspects of your life.
• Be aware of the tendency to weaponize your beliefs and instead focus on extending grace and understanding to others.

References:

• Genesis 1:26-28 (Biblehub)
• Psalm 33:6 (Biblehub)
• Habakkuk 2:18 (Biblehub)
• Jeremiah 10 (Biblehub)
• Genesis 2:7 (Biblehub)
• Ezekiel 37 (Biblehub)
• Psalm 8 (Biblehub)
• James 3:10 (Biblehub)
• Ephesians 1:9 (Biblehub)
• Hebrews 1 (Biblehub)
• Matthew 25 (Biblehub)

Books and Resources Mentioned:

• Breath of Life, Speech, Gender and Authority in the Garden of Eden
• Books on this topic

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