What does it mean to be made in God’s image?

Question: What Does It Mean to Be Created in the Image and Likeness of God?

At the very heart of the Christian worldview lies the profound belief that every person is created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:26–27). Unlike models fashioned by human hands, God forms humanity as living images of Himself, granting each individual inherent and unshakeable worth. This conviction shapes the Christian commitment to honour and defend the dignity of all—regardless of age, ability, or social standing.
The Hebrew word selem, or “image,” used in Genesis, points to humanity’s special function and position. In the ancient world, an “image” was not about physical likeness but about representation. Kings or statues represented deities, but God declares humans as His own chosen representatives—called to steward creation and manifest His character within it. Our dignity is not contingent on what we achieve or contribute; it is bestowed unconditionally by our Creator.
Likewise, the word demut, translated “likeness,” speaks to our unique moral and spiritual closeness to God. Even though sin has fractured humanity’s likeness to God—introducing shame, alienation, and selfishness—Scripture never says the image is lost. Both Genesis 9:6 and James 3:9 affirm that human beings remain “in the likeness of God.” This means every single person—including those whom society deems expendable—bears God’s indelible mark and deserves advocacy and care.
Sin distorted the image, but it cannot erase it. The Fall introduced brokenness into our relationship with God, with others, and even within ourselves. Yet the story of Scripture is not only one of brokenness—it is also one of restoration. In Christ, the perfect image of God (Colossians 1:15–20), we see the fullness of what true humanity means. Through His incarnation, death, and resurrection, Jesus restores our fractured image. In union with Him, we find our identity, dignity, and purpose renewed.

Therefore, the Christian call to protect life—from the unborn to the elderly, from the disabled to the marginalised—is rooted not in shifting social opinions but in the eternal reality that every person is God’s image-bearer. Our advocacy, compassion, and defence of the vulnerable reflect God’s own love for every individual. You are made in the image and likeness of God: worthy, beloved, and called to reflect His light in the world.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

SHUBHRA SAJU JOHN

Shubhra John is passionate about theology and philosophy, particularly their role in shaping thoughtful Christian engagement in contemporary times. She holds an MA in Philosophy from Madras Christian College and an integrated MTh in Theology from SAIACS. She looks into the intersection of theology and lived experience, seeking to translate abstract thought into meaningful everyday expression. She serves as Manager, ICT at Life Focus Society.