IN THE BEGINNING…MANKIND 1:26-28; 2:4-17

Do I matter, and if so, why?

Atheism’s Answer Bertrand Russell (philosopher) of man “his origin, his growth, his hopes and fears, his loves and his beliefs, are but the outcome of accidental collocations of atoms”

Atheism’s Answer Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. (Supreme Court Justice) “I see no reason for attributing to man a significance different in kind from that which belongs to a baboon or a grain of sand.”

The Creation of Mankind 1 st Account – 1:26-28 focuses on God’s power describes our creation in summary form

The Creation of Mankind 2 nd Account – 2:4-17 focuses on God’s care for mankind gives us the detailed story

The Creation of Mankind 2 nd Account – 2:4-17 v4: Summary v5-7: Two problems fixed: water provided & man created v8-15: God makes a perfect place for man v16: God’s abundant provision v17: God’s small prohibition

“In the Image of God” something physical that represents something else limited by “likeness” – we are not gods

“In the Image of God” We are designed to… 1.RELATE to God and one another John 1:12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name

“In the Image of God” We are designed to… 2.REFLECT God’s glory Psalm 8:3–5 When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have ordained; what is man that You take thought of him, and the son of man that You care for him? Yet You have made him a little lower than God, and You crown him with glory and majesty!

“In the Image of God” We are designed to… 2.REFLECT God’s glory physically Exodus 34:34–35 But whenever Moses went in before the Lord to speak with Him, he would take off the veil until he came out; and whenever he came out and spoke to the sons of Israel what he had been commanded, the sons of Israel would see the face of Moses, that the skin of Moses’ face shone…

“In the Image of God” We are designed to… 2.REFLECT God’s glory physically Daniel 12:3 Those who have insight will shine brightly like the brightness of the expanse of heaven, and those who lead the many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.

“In the Image of God” We are designed to… 2.REFLECT God’s glory physically & morally Matthew 5:16 “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.”

“In the Image of God” We are designed to… 3.RULE God’s creation as His representatives 1:28 – “fill and subdue” 2:15 – “cultivate and keep”

“In the Image of God” We are designed to… 1.RELATE to God and one another 2.REFLECT God’s glory physically & morally 3.RULE God’s creation as His representatives Effect of sin: the image was defaced, not erased Restoration begins with reconciliation to God

Why The Image Matters Cultural Implications 1.The image gives SANCTITY to all human life 2.The image gives EQUALITY to all human life Personal Implications 1.You matter! You are valuable & significant! 2.Life’s best when lived in line with God’s design

Upcoming Sermons 9/22 – “Work & Rest” – Brian 9/29 – “Marriage & Sexuality” – Matt 10/6 – “Creation Care” – Blake

Notes & Sermon Audio Grace Bible Grace Bible Texas App Next SW: Genesis 2:1-3 “Work & Rest”