InstaStudy

The Divine Blueprint: Understanding 'Let Us Make Man'

This study explores the profound declaration in Genesis 1:26, examining the nature of the Creator, the unique design of humanity, and the eternal purpose established from the beginning.

1. The Singular Creator and the Divine Pronoun

1.1 The Majesty of One God

Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 44:6; Isaiah 45:5
  • Scripture consistently declares the absolute singularity of God, emphasizing there is no other.
  • The 'us' in Genesis 1:26 reflects God's majestic self-deliberation, not a plurality of persons.
  • God's omnipotence and omnipresence mean He requires no counsel outside of Himself.

1.2 God's Self-Expression: The Word and Spirit

Verses: John 1:1-3; John 1:14; Colossians 1:15-17
  • The 'Word' (Logos) is God's thought, plan, and self-revelation, not a separate entity.
  • The Spirit of God is the active power and presence of the one God, working in creation.
  • These are modes of God's existence and operation, through which He expresses Himself, including in the creation of man.

1.3 The 'Us' as God's Plural of Majesty

Verses: Genesis 11:7; Isaiah 6:8
  • The use of 'us' in Hebrew can denote a plural of majesty or an internal deliberation within the singular God.
  • This linguistic feature highlights the grandeur and comprehensive nature of the one God.
  • God speaks to Himself, or through His own Word and Spirit, in the act of creation.

2. Man Created in God's Image and Likeness

2.1 Defining 'Image' (Tselem) and 'Likeness' (Demuth)

Verses: Genesis 1:26-27; Genesis 5:1-3
  • 'Image' refers to man's spiritual and moral capacity, reflecting God's nature.
  • 'Likeness' suggests a resemblance in character, intellect, and will, allowing for relationship with God.
  • Man was endowed with reason, emotion, and will, distinguishing him from all other creation.

2.2 The Spiritual and Moral Reflection of God

Verses: Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10; James 3:9
  • Man's original state included righteousness, holiness, and knowledge, reflecting God's attributes.
  • The ability to choose, to love, and to have fellowship with God are key aspects of this image.
  • This image is primarily spiritual and moral, not physical, though the physical body is the vessel.

2.3 The Uniqueness of Human Creation

Verses: Psalm 8:4-6; Hebrews 2:7
  • Man was uniquely formed by God, distinct from the animal kingdom, with a living soul.
  • God breathed into man the breath of life, making him a living being with eternal potential.
  • This special creation underscores man's elevated position and purpose in God's plan.

3. Man's Dominion and Purpose

3.1 Stewardship Over Creation

Verses: Genesis 1:28; Psalm 8:6-8
  • God granted man authority and responsibility to manage and care for the earth.
  • This dominion reflects God's own sovereignty and His trust in humanity.
  • Man was to cultivate, protect, and enjoy the created world.

3.2 Fellowship with the Creator

Verses: Genesis 2:15-17; Genesis 3:8
  • Man was created for intimate relationship and communion with God.
  • God walked and talked with man in the Garden, demonstrating His desire for fellowship.
  • This relationship was foundational to man's existence and well-being.

3.3 The Command to Multiply and Fill the Earth

Verses: Genesis 1:28; Genesis 9:1
  • God's command to be fruitful and multiply was part of His original design for humanity.
  • This ensured the continuation of the human race and the spread of God's image-bearers.
  • It also implied the establishment of families and communities as reflections of divine order.