Deep Dive into Christian Theology by Millard J. Erickson - The Image of God in the Human

The sources present three primary ways of understanding the image of God in humanity, distinguishing them by whether the image is seen as something a human is, experiences, or does.The Substantive View considers the image to be certain characteristics, qualities, or capacities inherent in the very nature or makeup of the human. It is something resident within a person, regardless of their relationship with God. This view often focuses on psychological or spiritual qualities, especially reason or the powers of personality like intelligence, will, and emotions. Historically, some proponents distinguished between "image" (natural attributes) and "likeness" (a superadded moral gift).The Relational View defines the image not as an intrinsic quality but as the experiencing of a relationship. Humans display the image when standing in a particular relationship, primarily with God, but also with other humans. This view sees the image as dynamic rather than static, existing when the relationship is active. Key proponents emphasized understanding the image through divine revelation and Christ, not inherent human nature alone.The Functional View regards the image as something a human does, identifying it with a human function. The most prominent function cited is the exercise of dominion over creation. Humans reflect God's sovereignty by ruling over the world. This perspective is strongly linked to the cultural mandate, the commission to learn about and control creation.While the relational and functional aspects are acknowledged as closely connected and important, perhaps best understood as consequences or applications of the image, the substantive view posits the image as the underlying structural quality that enables these relationships and functions.Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologianPatreon: patreon.com/edi_reformed