How does Genesis 1:26 define humanity's role in God's creation? Setting the Scene “Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness, to rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, and over all the earth itself and every creature that crawls upon it.’” (Genesis 1:26) Made in the Divine Image • “In Our image, after Our likeness” declares that every human being bears a God-given resemblance to the Creator. • Because the statement is presented as fact, human dignity is fixed, not negotiated. • This image includes moral, spiritual, rational, and relational capacities that distinguish humanity from the rest of creation. Entrusted with Dominion • “To rule over” conveys real authority delegated by God Himself. • Dominion is comprehensive—sea, sky, land, and all living creatures fall under human governance. • Authority originates in God, so it must be exercised under His moral standards, never autonomously. Stewardship, Not Exploitation • Dominion implies responsible caretaking, reflecting God’s own benevolent rule. • Humanity is called to cultivate, protect, and develop creation so that it flourishes. • Abuse or waste of resources violates the Creator’s intent and misrepresents His character. Reflecting God’s Character • As image bearers, people are to mirror attributes such as creativity, order, justice, mercy, and love. • Work, innovation, and culture-building become means of displaying God’s glory on earth. • Relational living—family, community, worship—shows the Triune God’s relational nature. The Call Today • Recognize every person’s intrinsic worth and treat others accordingly. • Engage in vocations and daily tasks with the mindset of caretakers serving the King. • Advocate for ethical use of the world’s resources, aligning human activity with God’s revealed purposes. |
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