The concept that "Every Individual Counts" is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the intrinsic value and significance of each person in the eyes of God. This principle is woven throughout Scripture, highlighting God's personal relationship with humanity and His concern for each individual.

Creation and the Image of God

The foundation for the belief that every individual counts begins in Genesis. In Genesis 1:27 , it is written, "So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them." This passage underscores the inherent dignity and worth of every person, as each is made in the image of God. The imago Dei (image of God) doctrine affirms that all human beings possess a unique value and purpose.

God's Knowledge and Care

The Psalms further illustrate God's intimate knowledge and care for each individual. Psalm 139:13-14 declares, "For You formed my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made." This passage reveals God's active involvement in the creation of each person, emphasizing that every life is precious and intentional.

The Good Shepherd

In the New Testament, Jesus' teachings reinforce the idea that every individual matters. In John 10:14-15 , Jesus states, "I am the good shepherd. I know My sheep and My sheep know Me, just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father. And I lay down My life for the sheep." The imagery of the Good Shepherd illustrates Jesus' personal care and sacrificial love for each of His followers, highlighting the value He places on every individual.

Parables of the Lost Sheep and the Lost Coin

Jesus further emphasizes the worth of each person through parables. In Luke 15:4-7 , He tells the parable of the lost sheep: "What man among you, if he has a hundred sheep and loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the pasture and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it?" This parable illustrates God's relentless pursuit of each individual, demonstrating that every person is valuable and worth seeking out.

Similarly, the parable of the lost coin in Luke 15:8-10 reinforces this message: "Or what woman who has ten silver coins and loses one of them does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it?" Both parables convey the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents, underscoring the significance of each soul.

The Body of Christ

The Apostle Paul, in his letters, also affirms the importance of each individual within the community of believers. In 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 , Paul describes the Church as the body of Christ, with each member playing a vital role: "Now you are the body of Christ, and each of you is a member of it." This metaphor highlights the interdependence and value of every believer, regardless of their function or status within the Church.

God's Love for the World

John 3:16 encapsulates the universal scope of God's love: "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." This verse affirms that God's redemptive plan is inclusive, extending to every individual who believes in Jesus Christ.

Conclusion

The biblical narrative consistently affirms that every individual counts, from the creation of humanity in God's image to the sacrificial love of Christ. This principle is foundational to understanding the value and dignity of each person, as well as the personal nature of God's relationship with humanity.