Humanity in the Image of God

Read the text

Genesis 1:26–31

Read the primary passage aloud twice. On the first reading, listen for the burden of the text. On the second, mark repeated words, contrasts, commands, promises, causes, and conclusions.

• Genesis 2:7–25
• Psalm 8
• James 3:7–10

Language desk

Words that clarify—not words that perform.

Confirm each gloss by its use in this context. A lexicon offers possibilities; the sentence, paragraph, author, and canon determine what a word is doing here.

Form the doctrine

The theological claim

Every human bears God’s image and possesses inviolable dignity and accountable purpose.

Defense drill

Say it under pressure.

Ground human worth in creation rather than ability, status, or social consensus.

• State the opposing claim in a form its adherent could recognize.
• Open the controlling passage and establish the immediate context.
• Make one clear argument before adding supporting texts.
• Ask a diagnostic question, listen to the answer, and return to Christ and the gospel.

Wednesday assignment

Carry the truth into the week.

Apply the image of God to one current ethical question.