Restoration of God's Image: Hope Through Christ

 

Summary

In our final session, we reflect on the profound biblical teaching of the image of God. Humanity was created with great potential and dominion over the earth, yet we find ourselves in a world where our lives often feel fragmented. This paradox highlights the tension between the greatness bestowed upon us by God and the fragility of our existence, as exemplified by the impact of a small, invisible virus. As Christians, we hold onto the hope that the image of God, marred by sin, will be restored in us through Jesus Christ.

The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 15:49, encapsulates this hope: "As we have borne the image of the man of dust, we shall bear the image of the Man of heaven." This statement underscores the journey from our creation in God's image, through the fall, to the ultimate restoration of that image in Christ. The narrative of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, is a testament to this restoration process. Despite the moral disintegration in our society, where identity is often self-constructed, the gospel offers a clear understanding of who we are in Christ.

The story of the Bible is about God reclaiming His image in us, a process that began with the resurrection of Jesus, the first fruits of a new creation. This hope is not just for the future but is already at work in us, transforming us into the likeness of Christ. The resurrection assures us that we will one day fully bear the image of the Man from heaven. This hope empowers us to live courageously, steadfastly, and with purpose, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain.

Key Takeaways:

1. The image of God in humanity, though marred by sin, holds a promise of restoration through Christ. This hope is a hallmark of the Christian faith, offering assurance in times of crisis and hopelessness. [01:37]

2. The gospel provides clarity in a world where identity is often confused and self-constructed. In Christ, we find our true identity, purpose, and destiny, which stands in stark contrast to the despair of a world without hope. [09:26]

3. The resurrection of Jesus is the first step in the restoration of God's image in us. It guarantees that we will one day fully bear the image of the Man from heaven, transforming us from one degree of glory to another. [17:48]

4. The hope of the gospel empowers us to face challenges with courage and steadfastness. It assures us that our labor in the Lord is meaningful and will not be in vain, as we live in anticipation of the future glory. [29:37]

5. The story of the Bible is about God reclaiming His image in us, culminating in the ultimate submission of all things to God. This grand narrative invites us to participate in the restoration of creation, living in the light of the hope we have in Christ. [24:21]

Youtube Chapters:

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:23] - The Image of God and Human Greatness
[00:59] - The Paradox of Human Fragility
[01:37] - Hope in the Image of God
[02:12] - Biblical Foundation of Hope
[02:43] - Bearing the Image of Heaven
[03:22] - Dominion and Disintegration
[04:26] - The Glorious Hope of Resurrection
[05:01] - The Neglected Doctrine of God's Image
[06:12] - Identity Crisis in Modern Society
[07:16] - The Gospel's Restorative Power
[09:26] - Knowing Our True Identity
[10:27] - The Biblical Narrative of Restoration
[11:40] - Family Language of God's Image
[13:31] - The Parable of the Stolen Portrait
[15:02] - The Gospel's Portrait Restoration
[17:21] - Transformation into Christ's Likeness
[19:02] - The Future Hope of Resurrection
[20:06] - God's Order in Resurrection
[22:07] - Christ as the First Fruits
[23:12] - The Day of Resurrection and Victory
[24:21] - The Grand Recovery of All Things
[26:41] - The Eternal Son's Submission
[28:38] - Implications of Our Hope
[30:16] - Prayer for Peace and Joy

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
1. 1 Corinthians 15:49 - "As we have borne the image of the man of dust, we shall also bear the image of the Man of heaven."
2. Genesis 1:26-28 - "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.'"
3. Philippians 1:6 - "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ."

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Observation Questions:

1. What does 1 Corinthians 15:49 suggest about the transformation of believers? How does this relate to the concept of bearing the image of the Man of heaven? [02:43]

2. In Genesis 1:26-28, what responsibilities were given to humanity as bearers of God's image? How does this relate to the idea of dominion mentioned in the sermon? [03:22]

3. How does the sermon describe the paradox of human greatness and fragility, especially in light of recent global events? [00:59]

4. What role does the resurrection of Jesus play in the restoration of God's image in us, according to the sermon? [16:37]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the concept of being made in God's image influence a Christian's understanding of their identity and purpose in a world where identity is often self-constructed? [06:12]

2. What does the sermon suggest about the impact of sin on the image of God in humanity, and how does the gospel offer a solution to this problem? [05:01]

3. How does the narrative of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, illustrate the process of God reclaiming His image in us? [05:01]

4. In what ways does the hope of bearing the image of the Man from heaven empower believers to face challenges with courage and steadfastness? [29:07]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a time when you felt your identity was fragmented or confused. How can the understanding of being made in God's image help you find clarity and purpose? [06:12]

2. The sermon mentions the moral disintegration in society. How can you, as a Christian, live out the gospel's restorative power in your community? [07:16]

3. Consider the hope of the resurrection and the promise of bearing the image of the Man from heaven. How does this hope influence your daily decisions and interactions with others? [19:02]

4. The sermon highlights the importance of living courageously and steadfastly. What specific challenges are you currently facing, and how can the hope of the gospel give you strength to overcome them? [29:07]

5. How can you actively participate in the restoration of God's image in your life and the lives of those around you? What practical steps can you take this week to reflect Christ's likeness? [18:32]

6. The sermon speaks of the grand recovery of all things. How does this narrative shape your view of the future and your role in God's plan? [24:21]

7. In what ways can you cultivate a deeper understanding of your identity in Christ, and how can this understanding impact your relationships and community involvement? [09:26]

Devotional

Day 1: The Promise of Restoration in Christ
The image of God in humanity, though marred by sin, holds a promise of restoration through Christ. This hope is a hallmark of the Christian faith, offering assurance in times of crisis and hopelessness. The Bible tells us that humanity was created in the image of God, endowed with great potential and dominion over the earth. However, sin has marred this image, leading to a world where our lives often feel fragmented and fragile. Despite this, Christians hold onto the hope that through Jesus Christ, the image of God will be restored in us. This restoration is not just a future promise but is already at work in us, transforming us into the likeness of Christ. [01:37]

Colossians 3:9-10 (ESV): "Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator."

Reflection: In what areas of your life do you feel fragmented or hopeless? How can you invite Christ into these areas to begin the process of restoration today?


Day 2: Clarity in Christ Amidst Identity Confusion
The gospel provides clarity in a world where identity is often confused and self-constructed. In Christ, we find our true identity, purpose, and destiny, which stands in stark contrast to the despair of a world without hope. In today's society, many people construct their identities based on personal achievements, social status, or cultural trends. This often leads to confusion and a lack of true purpose. However, the gospel offers a clear understanding of who we are in Christ. As Christians, our identity is not self-constructed but is found in the truth of the gospel. This identity gives us a sense of purpose and destiny that transcends the temporary and often confusing narratives of the world. [09:26]

Ephesians 1:11-12 (ESV): "In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory."

Reflection: Reflect on how you define your identity. Are there aspects of your identity that are based on worldly standards rather than your identity in Christ? How can you align your sense of self more closely with the gospel today?


Day 3: The Resurrection as the First Step of Restoration
The resurrection of Jesus is the first step in the restoration of God's image in us. It guarantees that we will one day fully bear the image of the Man from heaven, transforming us from one degree of glory to another. The resurrection of Jesus is a pivotal event in the Christian faith, marking the beginning of a new creation. It assures believers that the restoration of God's image in humanity is not just a distant hope but a present reality. Through the resurrection, we are being transformed into the likeness of Christ, moving from one degree of glory to another. This transformation is a process that begins now and will be completed when we fully bear the image of the Man from heaven. [17:48]

2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV): "And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit."

Reflection: How does the reality of the resurrection impact your daily life? In what ways can you actively participate in the transformation process into Christ's likeness today?


Day 4: Empowered by the Hope of the Gospel
The hope of the gospel empowers us to face challenges with courage and steadfastness. It assures us that our labor in the Lord is meaningful and will not be in vain, as we live in anticipation of the future glory. In a world filled with uncertainty and challenges, the hope of the gospel provides Christians with the strength to persevere. This hope is not just a passive expectation but an active force that empowers believers to live courageously and steadfastly. Knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain gives us the motivation to continue working for His kingdom, even in the face of adversity. This hope is rooted in the assurance of future glory, which gives meaning and purpose to our present efforts. [29:37]

1 Corinthians 15:58 (ESV): "Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain."

Reflection: What challenges are you currently facing that require courage and steadfastness? How can the hope of the gospel empower you to face these challenges with renewed strength and purpose?


Day 5: Participating in the Grand Narrative of Restoration
The story of the Bible is about God reclaiming His image in us, culminating in the ultimate submission of all things to God. This grand narrative invites us to participate in the restoration of creation, living in the light of the hope we have in Christ. The Bible presents a grand narrative of restoration, beginning with creation and culminating in the ultimate submission of all things to God. This narrative is not just a story of the past but an invitation for believers to participate in the ongoing restoration of creation. As Christians, we are called to live in the light of the hope we have in Christ, actively participating in God's work of reclaiming His image in us and in the world. This participation involves living out our faith in practical ways, contributing to the restoration of creation. [24:21]

Romans 8:19-21 (ESV): "For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God."

Reflection: How can you actively participate in God's work of restoration in your community and the world? What practical steps can you take today to contribute to the restoration of creation?

Quotes

"And in many ways, this is a kind of summary of the biblical teaching on the image of God. Man is made to be great, really, given great capacities, given tremendous resources in the earth and, indeed, commanded to have dominion over the earth. And in some ways, our modern technology is an illustration of the privilege of having dominion over the resources that God has put into the earth in which we live." [00:26:41]

"And yet, at the same time, we are a community in our nation and indeed around the world, conscious that our lives are in many ways disintegrating. And here we have these two almost contradictory realities – the greatness of what God gave us, the privilege of accomplishing and doing this in the context of a small and invisible virus that most of us don't even begin to understand that has, in a sense, brought the population of the world to its knees." [00:59:23]

"And it's appropriate, therefore, as we come to the conclusion of our studies on the image of God that we think about this great Christian conviction that the image of God recreated in Christians, the image of God has a glorious hope for the future. And that this is one of the hallmarks of the Christian in a time of crisis, in a time of hopelessness." [01:37:43]

"Remember how the Apostle Paul speaks in Ephesians chapter 2 about those who are not Christians being without hope in the world, and there is much evidence in the Hellenistic world, in which the Apostle Paul lived, of the despair and the hopelessness of those who were not Christian believers." [02:04:30]

"We were made from the dust of the earth, Genesis 2 verse 7, as we've already heard, but out of the dust of the earth God created something wonderful. He created man and woman as His own image and gave them dominion. And yet, through our sinfulness, instead of having dominion over the dust of the earth, the Apostle Paul is reflecting the fact that we are dust, and we return to dust." [03:16:90]

"But here is the glorious hope of the Christian believer that one day, we who bear the image of the man of dust will bear the image of the Man from heaven, our Lord Jesus Christ. And this reminds us of the tremendous importance of the theme of being made as the image of God." [04:29:88]

"And in many ways, it is an explanation of our current political and social climate. If you think about the disintegration, the moral disintegration there has been in the Western world over the last twenty-five to fifty years. And people have often said to me, I'm sure they've said this to you, 'I can't believe how rapidly this has happened.'" [05:39:40]

"Because when a society removes God from the situation, it inevitably removes the truth about man from the situation because when we remove God, we take away our identity, the image of God, and sadly we no longer know who we are. And the consequences of that, the detritus of that, it washes up upon the shores of our Western societies." [06:41:85]

"But then comes the gospel into this confusion and teaches us the great truth that in Jesus Christ, this image may be restored. When I was a boy at school in my last year in high school, one of my teachers gave me a very fine copy of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's book The Cost of Discipleship, and it was a very fine copy because it included more than that one work." [07:16:79]

"And this is why you know, if you are a Christian. If you're just a very young Christian, I mean, young in years as well as young in Christian faith, God has given you a truth in the gospel that enables you to know who you really are. You know who you are. You know where you came from. You know what you're for. You know what your destiny is." [09:09:49]

"Created as the image of God and then, if I can put it this way, that image stolen from us by the serpent, by the evil one. And then, our Lord Jesus Christ, who is Himself, as God's Son the image of God, coming in order to restore us to that image. And finally, as it were, as Paul says in Philippians chapter 1, putting the finishing touches to that work by transforming us fully into the likeness of the Lord Jesus Christ." [10:45:88]

"And the whole story of the Bible is how He prepared the way for that to happen and how it did happen. How did it happen? You know the story well. But the story has tremendous significance in this context, doesn't it? That the way in which He restored the portrait was by sending the original, by sending the original in such a way that the original Himself would be defaced." [15:10:63]

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Transcript
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