“For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.”
Proverbs 2:6
One critical distinguishing factor of man from all creation is that he is made in the image of God (Imago Dei). This reality is supported biblically, theologically, and practically.
From a biblical standpoint, “God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them” (Gen. 1:27). That the Bible declares this to be true is enough for the Christian yielded to the verbal (every word) and plenary (all parts authoritative) inspiration of God’s Word to embrace it fully.
However, we often wonder, “What does being made in God’s image mean?” We may embrace the biblical claim, but how does it become part of our everyday lives? It follows that we need more explanation. Therefore, because the Bible declares humanity to be made in God’s image, theological and practical implications help us understand this doctrine more comprehensively.
Regarding the theological implications of mankind in God’s image, one may discern at least three principles. The first theological principle relates to mankind’s entire dependence upon God because God made humans. The second principle is that mankind is holistic and is, therefore, not reducible to a single part(s). Finally, the third principle relates to humanity’s ability to choose rather than being hardwired toward certain behaviors. Indeed, mankind in God’s image means they are dependent, holistic, and volitional beings with the potential for great good and equally great harm.
It’s no wonder that when Adam and Eve succumbed to Satan’s claim that, not only would they not die, but that would be like God knowing good and evil when they ate from the tree that they were removed from God’s presence. The first image-bearers revealed their self-sufficient, selfish, and animalistic potential in that act of defiance. Consequently, their drive for discerning wisdom apart from God set humanity on the devastating path we still experience today.
Thus, it is mankind’s persistent pursuit of wisdom that takes us to the third aspect of understanding the doctrine of Imago Dei. When we consider the biblical and theological implications of being made in God’s image, we are struck by the need to understand practical implications. What are the practical implications of imago Dei? To answer that question, we have to accept that man is at least an intellectual (rational), emotional (relational), and valuing (ethical) being. In other words, mankind can think, feel, and do according to values, priorities, and decisions.
To be sure, that mankind can think, understand, and act accordingly (or not) practically sets him apart from all other created things. Furthermore, this practical implication of imago Dei rejects the notion that man is self-sufficient, simple, and hardwired. In other words, back to the theological implication, humans are entirely dependent upon their Creator-God (whether they know it or not), holistic (not only spirit or only body), and volitional (not driven by instinct but can choose).
We will unpack this practical aspect by looking at knowledge, understanding, and wisdom and how it relates to mankind in the image of God. Perhaps this incredibly significant doctrine will work its way into our everyday lives, enabling us to honor God better and serve others more.
— January 11, 2024