Systematic Theology: The Doctrine of Man Part 2: Individuality, Attributes, and Purpose

Pastor Terrie Beede's "Studies in Theology" series, grounded in the anchor text of 1 Timothy 4:16, continued its exploration with The Doctrine of Man Part 2: Individuality, Attributes, and Purpose. Pastor Beede reiterated the minister's responsibility to "take heed unto thyself and unto the doctrine" to ensure their own salvation and that of their hearers, emphasizing the practical and living nature of doctrine.This session built upon the previous study of man's origins, his constitution as a unity of material and non-material, and a societal unity (male and female), all reflecting the Trinity. The discussion moved to a deeper look at man's individuality as a reflection of the Trinity. Just as the Trinity is "three separate individuals... and yet they are one," man, though "many members individually," is also "one body" in Christ, reflecting God's unity. This understanding challenges human self-elevation, which is often found in liberal theology and even among believers who focus on personal benefit from the gospel. Man's true value derives from being created in God's image, not from within himself, and this should shift his focus from self-interest to living for Christ, His body, and the lost world.The session also delved into man's reflection of God's attributes. While man is not omnipotent, omnipresent, or omniscient like God, there is an "echo" of these perfections within him. A significant attribute discussed was God's holiness. To be holy means to be "separate," "entirely other," and "transcendent," encompassing purity and goodness while going beyond them; it's a summary of God's very being and deity, earning Him the title "the Holy One" 48 times in the Bible. Man, created in God's image, is called to reflect this transcendent majesty and purity in his own life.The ultimate purpose of man, therefore, is to glorify God in his actions and words, living for Christ, His church, and the lost world, rather than for personal gain or self-elevation. The study emphasized that man's existence is only truly valid to the degree that he seeks to fulfill God's original intended role. The session concluded by foreshadowing the next topics in the Doctrine of Man: the fall of man and the doctrine of sin.