In God’s Image
Bible Text: Genesis 1:1-31 | Preacher: Henry De Oliveira | Series: Genesis | Introduction
Focusing on v26
“Let us make man in Our image according to Our likeness”
Example of serious questions
Does God really care?
Pain and suffering is the reality of life
As a Christian there is another side to suffering
Yet people question whether there is a loving God
A declaration: God does care
Let us see from v26 how much God really does treasure us
Creation
Is immense and beautiful
Humans are the focus
Gen 1 – showcases all of God’s creative work, but…
… v26 – attention is drawn to God’s most wonderful creation
There is a pause – God speaks to Himself
There is a conversation amongst the Godhead
God is giving careful thought and attention to the creation of men and women
This shows we are special
Let us consider this heavenly conversation
Overview:
What did God create?
How did God create humans to be?
Why did God create humans
What did God create?
Human beings – made to be distinct and different from the rest of creation
There is a fundamental distinction in our form and purpose
We were created in His image
We are not the result of evolution
cf. Gen 2:7
Humans were formed from the dust and God breathed into his nostrils
Not out of the sea or the ground
Not just a command but formed by God’s own hand
The first thing man felt and saw was God
Such was the level of intimacy between mankind and God
In one sense separation from God is not natural
Through the separation of sin – we have turned our face away from God
We are quick to question and blame God
God still cares – this is why He sent His only Son Jesus
Through Jesus we can be reconciled with God and have an intimate relationship with Him
How did God create humans to be?
Two ways:
The mechanics – God made us from the dust of the ground and breathed life into us
The more complete – we were created in God’s image
Created in God’s image
God Himself served as the template for how we are made
We are not unique …
… because we are made in God’s image
When God made us – He looked at Himself
A created representation of God
Our faculties and abilities (examples) – is a testimony that we were created in God’s image
Personal example
cf Gen 2:23-24, 5:3
How much more would God’s affection be to humans made in His own likeness
God has so much affection towards us
Yet sin has marred this image – we have rejected God and forsaken His image
We have made ourselves to be God
Yet God is still loving towards us
God sent His only begotten Son – explanation
Jesus helps conform us to God’s image
Why did God create humans?
What is our purpose?
We are made to enjoy an intimate relationship with God
Nothing else in creation could have this relationship with God
Unless we are fulfilling our purpose – we are missing the mark
Sin blinds and impedes us from knowing God …
… yet God still loves us – Rom 5:8
We must repent of our sins – explanation
Closing Remarks
God really cares for us – v26 shows this