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Lenten Reflections: The Imago Dei

In the creation account of Genesis 1 God declares something extraordinary about human beings and their place in this world. God makes humans, both male and female, in the image of God. This pronouncement forms the basis of Christian theological anthropology (the study of human beings within a Christian worldview) and is usually referred to in Latin; the Imago Dei.

During this period of Lent I have been reflecting on what it means to be human. What does the Bible say about humanity? What does Jesus teach us about what it means to be human? Most importantly I've been considering the Imago Dei. What does it mean that human beings are made in the image of God?

There are many views and interpretations of this profound theological truth. Some argue it is a functional role, meaning that it's the duties we carry out in the world on God's behalf that make us the image of God. Others say it has to do with our need for community. Still others argue for the use of language, something unique to human beings amidst all creation. Others still hold that it is a structural proclamation, meaning the very way we are designed (both physically and spiritually) that makes us into the image of God.

Over the next several weeks this blog will be reflecting on the various components that go into what makes us bearers of the Imago Dei. As with most topics I believe that each of the above views captures a piece of the puzzle. So we will be reflecting on them to see how our understanding of the Imago Dei can deepen and be more entrenched in God himself.

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