Reflecting God's Image: Redemption Through Christ
Summary
### Summary
In today's lesson, we explored the profound concept of man's original state as created by God. We began by understanding that mankind, both male and female, was uniquely created in God's image and likeness. This means that humans were designed to reflect God's nature and attributes, serving as His representatives on Earth. Unlike any other part of creation, humans were made to relate to God in a personal and intimate way.
We then delved into the idea that, despite the fall, the perfect image of God can still be found in Jesus Christ. Christ is the exact representation of God, and through Him, we can see the unmarred image of God. This leads us to the application that our minds, wills, and affections should be set on Christ, as He is the embodiment of God's image.
Next, we discussed that being created in God's image means that mankind is a personal being, capable of rational thought, moral decision-making, and relational interactions. This personal likeness to God is inalienable, meaning it cannot be separated from us, even in our fallen state. This gives inherent value to all human beings, regardless of their condition or actions.
We also examined the moral likeness to God that mankind originally possessed. Man was created morally upright, with affections and will supremely set on God. However, the fall introduced the power of choosing evil, leading to a defaced moral image. Despite this, the capacity for redemption remains, and through Christ, the lost moral image can be restored.
Finally, we emphasized that the true worth of human nature lies not in what man is in his fallen state, but in what God meant man to be. The infinite worth of the human soul is revealed through Christ's sacrificial death, and this teaches us to value all men as brethren. The process of sanctification, where we are continually being transformed into the image of Christ, assures us that what God has started, He will indeed finish.
### Key Takeaways
1. Created in God's Image and Likeness: Humans were uniquely created to reflect God's nature and attributes, serving as His representatives on Earth. This special status sets us apart from all other creation and establishes our purpose to relate to God intimately. [01:36]
2. Christ as the Perfect Image of God: Despite the fall, the perfect image of God can still be found in Jesus Christ. He is the exact representation of God, and through Him, we can see the unmarred image of God. Our minds, wills, and affections should be set on Christ, as He embodies God's image perfectly. [05:08]
3. Inalienable Personal Likeness: Being created in God's image means that mankind is a personal being, capable of rational thought, moral decision-making, and relational interactions. This personal likeness to God is inalienable, giving inherent value to all human beings, regardless of their condition or actions. [12:12]
4. Moral Likeness and the Fall: Mankind was originally created morally upright, with affections and will supremely set on God. The fall introduced the power of choosing evil, leading to a defaced moral image. However, through Christ, the lost moral image can be restored, and we can live holy lives by depending on God. [17:57]
5. Infinite Worth of the Human Soul: The true worth of human nature lies not in what man is in his fallen state, but in what God meant man to be. Christ's sacrificial death reveals the infinite worth of the human soul, teaching us to value all men as brethren. The process of sanctification assures us that what God has started, He will indeed finish. [40:50]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:36] - Created in God's Image and Likeness
[03:05] - Reflecting God's Nature
[04:14] - The Fall and Its Consequences
[05:08] - Christ as the Perfect Image of God
[06:42] - Mankind as a Personal Being
[08:10] - Rational, Resolute, and Relational
[09:50] - Knowing God Through Christ
[11:31] - Inalienable Personal Likeness
[13:03] - Value of All Human Beings
[17:57] - Moral Likeness and the Fall
[19:58] - Created Upright and Holy
[22:14] - Renewed in the Image of Christ
[25:13] - Power of Contrary Choice
[27:20] - Dependence on God for Holiness
[31:01] - Chief Calamity of the Fall
[32:38] - Man as Both Glory and Scandal
[39:00] - Restoring the Lost Moral Image
[40:50] - Infinite Worth of the Human Soul
[42:32] - Sanctification Process
[44:03] - Guaranteed Restoration in Christ
[45:42] - Parables of Lost Sheep, Coin, and Son
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Genesis 1:26-27 - "Then God said, 'Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.' So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them."
2. Hebrews 1:1-3 - "Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high."
3. Colossians 1:15 - "He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation."
### Observation Questions
1. According to Genesis 1:26-27, what specific attributes were humans created to reflect?
2. How does Hebrews 1:1-3 describe Jesus in relation to God’s image? [05:08]
3. What does Colossians 1:15 say about Jesus' role in creation and his relationship to God?
### Interpretation Questions
1. What does it mean for humans to be created in the image and likeness of God, and how does this set us apart from the rest of creation? [01:36]
2. How does the concept of Jesus being the "exact imprint" of God's nature help us understand our own fallen state and the potential for redemption? [05:08]
3. In what ways does the inalienable personal likeness to God give inherent value to all human beings, regardless of their condition or actions? [12:12]
### Application Questions
1. Reflecting on the idea that humans are created in God's image, how does this influence the way you view and treat others, especially those who are different from you? [01:36]
2. Considering that Jesus is the perfect image of God, how can you set your mind, will, and affections more fully on Christ in your daily life? [05:08]
3. How can you practically demonstrate the inherent value of all human beings in your community, especially those who are marginalized or overlooked? [12:12]
4. In what ways can you work towards restoring the lost moral image of God in your own life through Christ? What specific steps can you take this week? [17:57]
5. How does understanding the infinite worth of the human soul, as revealed through Christ's sacrificial death, change the way you interact with others? [40:50]
6. The sermon mentioned the process of sanctification and being transformed into the image of Christ. What is one area of your life where you feel God is working on you, and how can you cooperate with that process? [42:32]
7. Reflect on a time when you struggled to see the value in someone. How can the truths from this sermon help you change your perspective and actions towards them? [16:34]
Devotional
Day 1: Reflecting God's Nature and Attributes
Humans were uniquely created to reflect God's nature and attributes, serving as His representatives on Earth. This special status sets us apart from all other creation and establishes our purpose to relate to God intimately. Being made in God's image means we have the capacity for rational thought, moral decision-making, and relational interactions. This personal likeness to God is inalienable, giving inherent value to all human beings, regardless of their condition or actions.
Understanding that we are created in God's image should profoundly impact how we view ourselves and others. It calls us to live in a way that reflects God's character—showing love, justice, mercy, and truth. It also means that every person we encounter has inherent worth and should be treated with dignity and respect. This understanding can transform our relationships and interactions, leading us to live out our purpose as God's representatives on Earth.
[Genesis 1:26-27 ESV] "Then God said, 'Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.' So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them."
Reflection: How can you reflect God's nature and attributes in your daily interactions with others today? Think of one specific way you can show love, justice, mercy, or truth to someone you encounter.
Day 2: Christ as the Perfect Image of God
Despite the fall, the perfect image of God can still be found in Jesus Christ. He is the exact representation of God, and through Him, we can see the unmarred image of God. Our minds, wills, and affections should be set on Christ, as He embodies God's image perfectly. By focusing on Christ, we can better understand what it means to live in God's image and strive to emulate His character in our lives.
Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate example of what it means to live in God's image. His life, teachings, and sacrificial death reveal the fullness of God's character and love. By studying Christ's life and seeking to follow His example, we can grow in our understanding of God's nature and become more like Him. This process of transformation is ongoing and requires us to continually set our minds, wills, and affections on Christ.
[Colossians 1:15-17 ESV] "He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together."
Reflection: In what ways can you set your mind, will, and affections on Christ today? Identify one specific area of your life where you can seek to emulate Christ's character more closely.
Day 3: Inalienable Personal Likeness
Being created in God's image means that mankind is a personal being, capable of rational thought, moral decision-making, and relational interactions. This personal likeness to God is inalienable, giving inherent value to all human beings, regardless of their condition or actions. This understanding should shape how we view ourselves and others, recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of every person.
Our personal likeness to God means that we are uniquely equipped to engage in meaningful relationships, make moral choices, and think rationally. These capacities are a reflection of God's own nature and are integral to our identity as His image-bearers. Even in our fallen state, this personal likeness remains, reminding us of our inherent value and the potential for redemption and transformation through Christ.
[Psalm 8:4-6 ESV] "What is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him? Yet you have made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor. You have given him dominion over the works of your hands; you have put all things under his feet."
Reflection: How can you recognize and honor the inherent value of others in your daily interactions? Think of one specific way you can show respect and dignity to someone you encounter today.
Day 4: Moral Likeness and the Fall
Mankind was originally created morally upright, with affections and will supremely set on God. The fall introduced the power of choosing evil, leading to a defaced moral image. However, through Christ, the lost moral image can be restored, and we can live holy lives by depending on God. This restoration process involves a continual turning to Christ and relying on His strength to live in accordance with God's will.
The fall has marred our moral likeness to God, but it has not destroyed it. Through Christ, we have the opportunity to be renewed and restored to our original moral uprightness. This process of sanctification requires us to depend on God and seek His guidance in our daily lives. By doing so, we can overcome the power of sin and live in a way that reflects God's holiness and righteousness.
[Ephesians 4:22-24 ESV] "To put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to depend more on God for holiness? Identify one specific habit or behavior that you can surrender to God and seek His strength to overcome.
Day 5: Infinite Worth of the Human Soul
The true worth of human nature lies not in what man is in his fallen state, but in what God meant man to be. Christ's sacrificial death reveals the infinite worth of the human soul, teaching us to value all men as brethren. The process of sanctification assures us that what God has started, He will indeed finish. This understanding should lead us to treat others with love and respect, recognizing their inherent worth and potential for redemption.
Christ's sacrificial death on the cross demonstrates the infinite worth of every human soul. It shows us that God values each person so highly that He was willing to give His own Son to redeem us. This understanding should transform how we view and treat others, leading us to love and respect them as fellow image-bearers of God. The process of sanctification assures us that God is at work in our lives, continually transforming us into the image of Christ.
[1 Peter 1:18-19 ESV] "Knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot."
Reflection: How can you show love and respect to others, recognizing their infinite worth in God's eyes? Think of one specific way you can demonstrate this understanding in your interactions today.
Quotes
1. "We were created by God, both male and female, to be in his image and likeness. Image and likeness is used interchangeably in Scripture, and it simply means to represent God, to reflect God, to remind creation of God, because we were made to relate to God, and we can't relate to God except that we are in his image. Nothing else in creation was made to be God's image bearers. Nothing else." [01:36] (30 seconds)
2. "Only mankind was made to be a finite reflection of God's nature and attributes. God is infinite, and he's infinite in all of his attributes, which we've studied already in our study of theology, but man is made to be a finite, a limited representation of God." [03:05] (20 seconds)
3. "Christ is the perfect image of God, though mankind has fallen, and we still reflect God's image in a limited sense. If we want to see the perfect, unmarred image of God, we look to Christ. The application is this. First blank is where can we find God's exact image? That's the second blank, image. Where can we find God's exact image? Well, we find his image in mankind, but his image has fallen in mankind. But where do we find his exact image? It's in the God man, right? It's in Jesus Christ, the embodiment of God, God made flesh." [05:55] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "As a person, he's in God's image. God is a personal being, which we studied in the nature and attributes of God. And so is man. So God could relate to man. He made man in his own image. And as a personal being, mankind is self-conscience and self-determining, meaning that he is a free moral agent with capacity for the utmost good. Therefore, he can relate to God." [06:42] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "All men are valuable because we are made in the image of God. That extends to the elders in our society, who oftentimes are dismissed as a burden on society because they're not contributing necessarily to the economy or to how our society works. They are viewed as being a burden in modern society, which is a shame because they are created in the image of God." [13:03] (24 seconds)
6. "Christ's entire ministry was to show the world who God the Father was, right? He was a word of God made flesh, the God who wants to relate to us. The application is this. Because we are personal beings, is our mind our rational nature? Is our will our resolute nature? And is our affection our relational nature? Is our mind, will, and affection set on Christ? It's who God made us to be, personal beings to know him, to relate to him, to serve him. And if we are not in relation to him, then we're not hitting the mark. We're not hitting the mark for which we were created to be." [11:31] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "The loss of this moral likeness to God was the chief calamity of the fall. The fall is the first blank. The loss of our moral lightness, having the moral sympathy with God to love what he loves and to hate what he hates and to walk in his steps, that was the chief calamity of the fall. Man has defaced the image of God and man's moral nature, even though the image of God is still enduring in man's personal nature, right? Because in our personal lightness to God, that's inalienable. We can't cease to be a person or else we'd cease to be a human. But our moral nature, that image of God has been defaced because we are no longer holy. We are more marked by sin, mankind, than anything else." [31:01] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "The value of something is determined exactly by the price that's paid for it. It was not Christ's death. The value of infinite value? The Lamb of God who is perfect without spot, without blemish? He laid down his life for unholy man, for fallen man, for finite man. Therefore, in Christ's estimation, mankind has infinite value. And we must trust Christ's estimation and not our estimation of men's worth." [40:50] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "We are guaranteed that what he has started, he will indeed finish. Praise God. Flip back over on the front. The application for number seven is this. How does Luke 15, 15 is the first blank, picture man's worth? That's the second blank. How does Luke chapter 15 picture man's worth? Let's flip there together in Luke chapter 15. Luke 15 is a beautiful chapter, one of my favorite chapters in the New Testament. It's three parables, parable of the lost sheep, the parable of the lost coin, and the parable of the lost son." [44:03] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "We see the worth of a lost son in the celebration of the father, right? This shows us the value of all mankind because we are made in the personal image of God. And we were originally created in the moral likeness of God. Though we no longer have the moral likeness of God in that all mankind are sinners estranged from God, we still have the personal likeness of God and we can relate to God and God longs to relate to us. So turn to Christ, turn to him and have his image be restored to you." [48:52] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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