How does Genesis 1:26 connect to the concept of the Trinity? Setting the scene Genesis 1 records the literal, historical account of creation. Verse 26 suddenly shifts to a divine conversation that opens a window into God’s own inner life. Text of Genesis 1:26 “Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness…’” (Berean Standard Bible). Key observations • Singular “God” (Hebrew, Elohim) speaks. • The verbs are singular, yet the pronouns are plural: “Us… Our.” • The plural is deliberate; it is not a poetic flourish or reference to angels, because humankind is made in God’s image, not in an angelic image. Trinitarian insights • The verse shows plurality within the one God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—without denying His unity. • This self-conversation anticipates later, fuller revelations: – The Father sending the Son (John 3:16). – The Spirit hovering over the waters in Genesis 1:2 and later indwelling believers (1 Corinthians 6:19). • The “image” language is echoed when the Son, “the exact representation of His nature” (Hebrews 1:3), takes on flesh—confirming that the same Triune God who created now redeems. How the rest of Scripture confirms this • Isaiah 48:16—“And now the Lord GOD has sent Me, and His Spirit.” One speaker mentions the Lord, the Speaker, and the Spirit. • Matthew 3:16-17—At Jesus’ baptism the Father speaks, the Son is in the water, and the Spirit descends. • 2 Corinthians 13:14—A Trinitarian benediction links “the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ,” “the love of God,” and “the fellowship of the Holy Spirit.” Why this matters for us today • Human dignity: Being made in the image of a Triune God means we are designed for relationship—reflecting His eternal fellowship. • Salvation: The same three Persons active at creation are active in redemption—Father’s plan, Son’s sacrifice, Spirit’s application. • Worship: Understanding Genesis 1:26 enriches our worship, directing us to honor Father, Son, and Spirit as the one true God who created, sustains, and saves. |
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