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“Whose image is this” (Mark 12:16-17; Jesus)

What does it mean to be made in God’s image? – How God chose to expand the impact of His glory.

Tselem

Intentional design—Let us make man…male and female in our image…created X 3

- distinction between man and animals but not between man and woman
- likeness is not physical
- we are not to make images of God because He has already made images of Himself
- the thing the Serpent offered was what Adam and Eve already had. They gained moral independence  and lost their own souls (Gen. 3:5).
- image of God is preserved in all mankind (Gen. 9:6; Jas. 3:9)

How does being made in God’s image shape a disciple?

Note: Imago Dei, does not take shape through relationships (experience), nor does it morph with the shifting cultures of time (function); designed in God’s image precedes everything including either experience or function.

• The Divine mandate—God as righteous

The capacity to be and act like God—Christ is the exact image of God (Col. 1:15)

Language, creativity, holiness, immortality, love, self-awareness, mercy, grace, justice, morality

What was marred by sin is renewed/restored in Christ (2 Cor. 3:18; Eph. 4:24; Col. 3:10)

• The Discipleship mandate—God as disciple-maker

To make generations of people into what they are…in God’s image

FILL- Disciple-making is the original design and purpose of humans—whether through marriage or community. Fellowship proceeds to fruitfulness. 

• The Dominion mandate—God as sovereign over creation

To steward the creation under the rule and reign of God…in submission to her King

Rule over – bring under control

Subdue – domesticate, harness, utilize

The purpose of making beings in the image of God is to steward and expand the reach of God’s glory.

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