God created people to uniquely reflect his image. (Genesis 1:26-31)
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SERMON NOTES:
Image Bearers
Genesis 1:26-31
God created people to uniquely reflect His image.
Who we are. (26-27, 31)
Image bearers. (26-27)
Two different sexes: Male and female. (27)
What we do. (26-30)
Enjoy God’s blessings. (28a)
Propagate life. (28b)
Rule over creation. (26, 28c)
Depend upon God’s provision. (29-30)
How God sees us. (31)
Pinnacle of His creation. (31)
study questions:
For the Next Lesson: Genesis 1:26-31
- Read verses 26-27. Who is the “us” referred to in verse 26? Why is this important to note? How are we as human beings made in the “likeness” and “image” of God? What are communicable attributes of God that have been given to us as human beings? Take some time to brainstorm about different ways we are different from the rest of creation and like God. Note that in verse 27 God purposefully created human beings as “male and female”. Why is it important to recognize that God intentionally created two sexes (think personally, relationally and culturally)? How do these verses influence the way we view ourselves and understand our identity as people?
- Read verse 28. When considering all of Genesis 1 including how God created humankind, in what ways did God bless Adam and Eve? What five commands does God give here, and what does each one mean for Adam & Eve? How would you summarize in your own words the role God originally gave to Adam and Eve? How do these same commands and the same role apply to us? How do they affect our views on having kids, pets, animal rights, environmentalism, orphan care, etc.?
- Read verses 29-31. What did God do to provide for the living inhabitants of the earth? How can this example of God’s provision influence how we trust God to provide for us now (see also Luke 12:22-31)? What were the results of God’s creative efforts on day 6? How did God evaluate the finished work of creation? What feelings, thoughts and emotions do you think Adam and Eve were experiencing as they experienced God’s “very good” finished creation
- So what. How do these verses specifically apply to your life? How do these truths about our identity influence how you view yourself, how you view others and how you treat others? How does your role as a “ruler” on this earth affect how you approach your life? How can you both see and be grateful for God’s blessings in your life?