Humanity is the pinnacle of God’s creative work as demonstrated through several unique attributes. 1) Humanity is created in the image of God. 2) Humanity is created to be in close relationship with God, to hear God and respond to His goodness and grace in loving worship. 3) Humanity is created and commissioned to steward the earth and its resources. 4) Humanity is created to be responsible to follow God’s loving commands.

 

However, long ago humanity chose to turn away from the loving Creator and engaged in an idolatrous existence. This introduced suffering, death and decay, not only to the human race but to all of creation. So, although every person has a tremendous potential for good, each is marred by an attitude of disobedience and a rebellious nature toward God called sin. This is what separates us from God.

 

Genesis 1:26-30; 2:16-17; 3:1-24; Psalm 8:3-6; Isaiah 53:6a; 59:1-2; Romans 1:18-32; 3:23; 8:18-23.